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TXTexas TABC Training - Alcohol Server Classes

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TABC vs Food-Handler: Do You Need Both? Cost & Cheapest Options

TABC vs Food-Handler

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.

Knock out both certifications today for under $16. Start with the $9 TABC course, then add the $7 Food Handler Classes's course.

Pricing and state rules verified . Always confirm county ordinances—some require dual certification even for bar-only staff.