If you serve beverages in Texas, there are two common certifications people talk about. The TABC seller-server card and the Texas Food-Handler card. Many newcomers assume one replaces the other—wrong. They cover different laws, different risks, and sometimes different state agencies.
This guide breaks down:
- Exactly what each card covers (alcohol vs food safety)
- Whether your job needs one or both
- The cheapest state-approved options, both under $16 combined
TABC vs Food-Handler: Quick Comparison
| Feature | TABC Seller-Server | Texas Food-Handler |
| Regulating Agency | Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) | Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) |
| What It Covers | Alcohol laws, ID checks, intoxication signs, Safe-Harbor | Foodborne illness, cross-contamination, handwashing |
| Who Needs It | Anyone selling, serving, mixing, or delivering alcohol | Anyone handling unpackaged food or food-contact surfaces |
| Course Length | 2 to 4 hours | 2 to 4 hours |
| Validity | 2 years statewide | 2 years statewide |
| Cheapest Approved Price | $9 at SSC® Enroll → | $7.00 at FHC® Enroll → |
| Safe-Harbor Protection | Yes, shields employer licence if 100% staff certified | No (food-safety fines separate) |
Do You Really Need Two Cards?
- Full-service restaurant servers: Yes. You pour drinks and handle plates.
- Bar-only bartender: Mostly TABC only. But some counties still ask for food-handler if you handle garnishes or bar snacks.
- Fast-casual cashier with beer-to-go: Both. You ring up alcohol and prep food.
- Liquor-store clerk: TABC only.
- Back-of-house cook, no alcohol access: Food-Handler only.
How Much Will It Cost Me?
- TABC course: $9 flat
- Food-Handler course: $7.00 flat
- Total: $16.00 — less than one night’s tips
Common Questions
Can I take both courses in one sitting?
Yes. Finish TABC first with SSC®, then jump over to FHC® Food Handler Classes.
Does my employer reimburse the cost?
Many chains do. Ask your manager. We also offer bulk codes so employers handle purchasing and certificate managment.
What if I only get the food-handler card and skip TABC?
Serving alcohol without TABC certification risks fines up to $4,000 and potential jail time. Don’t chance it.
Do I need to carry physical cards?
TABC allows digital PDF or wallet-pass copies. Food-handler cards can also be stored on your phone.
Pricing and state rules verified . Always confirm county ordinances—some require dual certification even for bar-only staff.