License for Food Truck in Texas: All Permits and Requirements to Operate Legally

Starting a food truck in Texas isn’t just a bold move—it’s a smart one. Mobile food businesses are booming from the packed downtowns of Austin and Dallas to the weekend festivals in Houston and San Antonio, and the data backs it up. 

According to a nationwide survey of food truck business owners, food trucks in Texas generate a median annual revenue of $437,800, making it one of the most profitable states for mobile food vendors. With its massive events, diverse food-loving population, and warm weather nearly year-round, Texas is a hotspot for mobile food entrepreneurs.

But before you fire up the grill or start dreaming about long lines and sold-out days, you’ll need to take care of one significant thing: licensing. In addition to considering food truck costs, without the right licenses and permits, your truck can’t legally operate, and trust us—local health departments do not take kindly to unlicensed vendors.

This guide covers the steps to obtain a food truck license in Texas. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, you’ll quickly learn the process and be on the road in no time.

1. Sales tax permit

Unlike some other states, Texas doesn’t require a general business license at the state level. What you do need is a sales tax permit issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. This permit allows you to legally sell taxable goods like food and collect sales tax from customers.

You can apply for this permit online at the Texas Comptroller’s website. It’s free, and the process is pretty straightforward. Be prepared to provide information about your business structure (like if you’re a sole proprietor, LLC, etc.), your expected revenue, your truck’s operating address, a thorough business plan, and your federal EIN (employer identification number) if you have one.

This permit is your green light to do business legally in Texas, so don’t skip it. And once you get it, make sure you’re tracking sales and submitting your sales tax reports on time. Sales tax in Texas varies by city and county, so your tax rate depends on where you’re operating. A good POS system can help you keep track of this.

If you plan to operate in multiple cities, some local governments may require you to register or obtain a separate license to operate in their jurisdiction. It’s always a good idea to contact the city hall or local permitting office before setting up shop in a new area.

2. Certified food manager & food handler certificates

Texas takes food safety seriously. If you’re the owner or the person in charge of your food truck, you need to become a certified food manager (CFM). This isn’t optional. You or someone in charge of your food truck must have it. The certification includes lessons on safe food handling, temperature control, sanitation, and foodborne illnesses. It’s a way to show the state, and your future customers, that you know what you’re doing.

You can take the training and exam online or in person. Most courses take a few hours to complete and cost between $50 and $75.

Make sure the course you choose is approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services. You can find a list of approved providers on their official website.

Once you pass the exam, you’ll get a certificate valid for five years. Keep a printed copy on your truck at all times, as health inspectors will want to see it.

Additionally, your employees, even if they’re just helping prep or serve, need a Food Handler Certificate. This is a shorter training course (usually about 2 hours) that teaches the basics of food safety, including handwashing, avoiding cross-contamination, and keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold. This costs no more than $15 to ensure anyone working in a restaurant or a food truck can afford to get certified. These certifications are valid for two years.

3. Mobile food unit permit (city-specific)

Unlike some other states, Texas doesn’t have a single statewide mobile vendor permit. Instead, every city or county does its own thing. That means you need to get a mobile food vendor permit in every location where you plan to operate.

For example, in Houston, you apply for a mobile food vendor permit through the Houston Health Department. They require additional inspections and documents like a menu, site plan, and proof of commissary use.

In Austin, you go through Austin Public Health’s Environmental Health Services Division. You’ll need to pass their inspection and follow their rules on where and when you can park. While in Dallas, you’ll apply at Dallas City Hall’s Consumer Health office. Their requirements include a vehicle inspection, commissary use agreement, and waste disposal plan.

In other words, you’ll need to contact the local health department where you plan to operate since requirements can vary quite a bit from city to city, so it’s best to check early.

4. Public health permit

Before you can legally hit the road and start serving customers, your food truck must pass a local health inspection. This isn’t just a one-time requirement, but it’s a core part of making sure your mobile kitchen meets food safety regulations set by the state of Texas and your local jurisdiction.

The purpose of this inspection is to confirm that your operation is clean, safe, and capable of preparing and serving food without putting customers at risk. When a health inspector visits your truck, they will conduct a thorough review of your entire setup. You should expect them to examine how your food is prepared, stored, and served.

They will look at whether raw and cooked foods are kept separate to avoid cross-contamination. They’ll check if your refrigeration units are keeping food at the proper temperatures (usually below 41°F for cold storage) and that hot foods are held at 135°F or higher. Your truck also needs a handwashing sink that dispenses both hot and cold water, stocked with soap and paper towels at all times.

Inspectors will also evaluate how you handle waste. That means they’ll want to see how you dispose of dirty water, grease, and trash, as well as if you’re doing so in a way that won’t attract pests or pollute the environment. And speaking of pests, they’ll be checking for signs of infestation, so keeping your truck clean and sealed is key.

You need to be proactive—keep your truck clean, organized, and in good working order. Inspectors are trained to catch even small violations, and if they find any issues, they can delay your opening or suspend your operations until everything is fixed.

Keep in mind that food truck inspections are managed locally. Every city or county in Texas handles its own inspections and has its own health department with specific requirements. If you’re planning to operate in more than one city, you’ll likely need to schedule inspections in each location. Contact the health department where you plan to operate and ask about their specific process, timelines, and inspection checklists.

Inspections may need to be scheduled in advance, and some health departments can be backed up for weeks, especially during event seasons or summer months. Don’t wait until the last minute. Reach out early, find out what documents or materials you need to have ready, and schedule your inspection well before your launch date.

5. Central preparation facility (CPF) authorization

Running a food truck in Texas means more than just cooking great food on wheels. You also need a licensed facility where you can handle food prep, storage, cleaning, and waste disposal. That’s where a commissary kitchen or central preparation facility (CPF) comes in. Think of it as your support hub, a place that helps keep your mobile operation clean, compliant, and functional.

Most Texas cities require you to operate out of a commissary, even if your truck is equipped with a refrigerator, handwashing sink, and a generator. Why? Because a commissary provides a controlled, inspected environment where you can safely prepare and store food, especially during off-hours when your truck isn’t in use. It also allows you to refill your water supply, dispose of wastewater, and clean equipment in a way that meets public health codes.

To stay compliant, you need to find a licensed commissary in your area. Many commercial kitchens offer food truck operators space for rent, often by the hour or through a monthly agreement. Once you’ve selected a facility, you’ll need to sign a commissary use agreement, a document that confirms you’re authorized to use the space and outlines how often you’ll be accessing it.

That agreement must be submitted with your local permit application, whether you’re applying in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or another Texas city. Most local health departments will also ask you to keep a written log of every time you use the commissary. And yes, it’s a real requirement—they want to be sure you’re actually using the space as agreed.

If your food truck is truly self-sufficient, meaning it meets all equipment requirements and doesn’t need additional space for prep, cleaning, or storage, you might be eligible to apply for a waiver. This isn’t guaranteed, though, and the standards are strict. It’s best to assume you’ll need a commissary unless a local inspector tells you otherwise.

6. Fire safety certificate

If your food truck uses propane, deep fryers, or any equipment with an open flame, you need to pass a fire safety inspection to operate legally. Your city or county will likely require it either at startup, on a yearly basis, or both. To get started, call your local fire marshal’s office and schedule an inspection. They’ll walk you through what to expect, and in many cases, they’ll provide a checklist to help you prepare.

During your inspection, you can expect the fire marshal to look at several critical areas of your setup. You need a Class K fire extinguisher onboard. This is specifically made to handle grease fires, which are common in food trucks. Make sure it’s mounted, easy to access, and fully charged. If your truck uses other types of cooking equipment, an additional ABC extinguisher may also be required.

If you’re using fryers or open-flame appliances, install a fire suppression system over your cooking area. One commonly approved system is the Ansul hood. It must be professionally installed and serviced regularly, and you’ll need to show documentation proving that it’s in working condition.

For propane, you must secure your tanks properly and use gas lines that meet the code. Inspectors will check that there are no leaks, that everything is clearly labeled, and that your setup follows NFPA 58 standards. Make sure your truck has proper ventilation, too. Grease, steam, and smoke from cooking need to exit safely through an exhaust system that is clean and functional.

The fire marshal will also check your layout. Keep all emergency exits clear, and make sure your gas shutoff valves and electrical panels are easy to reach. Some cities require you and your team to complete basic fire safety training or at least know how to use the fire extinguishers onboard.

Your food truck will be evaluated under codes like NFPA 96, which outlines fire safety for commercial cooking operations. This includes clearance around appliances, hood systems, extinguishing methods, and even training and communication protocols. You may also fall under NFPA 1, which covers general vehicle safety and fire permits.

Once you pass the inspection and receive your fire safety certificate, display it inside your truck where it’s visible. It not only shows that you’re in compliance, but it also builds trust with your customers. Staying proactive with fire safety helps protect your business and the people you serve every day.

7. Register your vehicle and get proper insurance

Of course, running a food truck in Texas means your vehicle is classified as a commercial vehicle. That comes with specific legal responsibilities, starting with registration through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). You’ll need to register your food truck just like any other business vehicle, and that process includes submitting proof of ownership, the vehicle identification number (VIN), a completed application, and any applicable fees.

Depending on your truck’s weight and whether you’re towing any equipment (like a trailer or smoker), you may also be required to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). While not every food truck operator needs a CDL, it’s a good idea to check with TxDMV or your local DMV office to see where your setup falls.

Registration aside, it’s important that you have proper insurance coverage in place before you hit the road. At a minimum, Texas expects food truck owners to carry the following:

• Commercial auto insurance: This covers physical damage to your vehicle and liability in case of a traffic accident while driving the truck.
• General liability insurance: This protects you from lawsuits or claims related to injuries, property damage, or food-related illnesses that could occur during business operations.
• Workers’ compensation insurance: If you have employees, this covers them in case they’re injured on the job, whether it’s burns in the kitchen or a slip while setting up at an event.

You’re running a business on wheels, so insurance isn’t just a formality—it’s financial protection for your livelihood. It’s a smart move to partner with a Texas-based insurance provider that’s familiar with the food truck industry and its specific risks. They can tailor coverage to the risks unique to your type of food service, local regulations, and your truck’s equipment.

Some event organizers or cities may even require you to show proof of insurance before they’ll allow you to operate, so this step isn’t something to delay or cut corners on. Take time to shop around, compare providers, and make sure your coverage meets or exceeds the legal and practical needs of your food truck operation.

8. Location permits & parking rules

Where you park your truck matters a lot. Every city in Texas has its own rules about where food trucks can operate, how long they can stay in one spot, and what permits they need to be there legally.

Some cities, like Austin and San Antonio, offer designated food truck parks or zones. Others may limit parking on public streets or require you to park only on private property with written permission. Some cities also restrict food trucks from operating near schools or brick-and-mortar restaurants.

If you’re planning to work in multiple cities or counties, you may need a location-specific permit or a mobile vendor permit for each area. Always check with the city planning or zoning department before setting up. Fines for violating location rules can be steep.

9. Liquor license (if you plan to serve alcohol)

If you’re planning to serve alcohol from your food truck—such as cold craft beer with tacos, a glass of wine with gourmet sliders, or even cocktails from a licensed trailer—you’ll need to get a liquor license from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). This is non-negotiable. Texas takes alcohol laws seriously, and getting licensed properly is a big step in staying legal and avoiding hefty penalties.

Now, before you get overwhelmed, here’s the good news: it’s absolutely possible, and plenty of mobile businesses across Texas have done it successfully. You just need to know what you’re applying for and how the process works.

TABC doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all liquor license. The kind of alcohol you plan to serve and how and where you’ll be serving it determines the license you’ll need. Some of the most common options are:

• Beer retail dealer’s permit (BG): If you’re only serving beer on-site, this one’s for you. It allows the sale of beer for on-premise consumption (like drinking at your truck or nearby seating area).
• Wine and beer retailer’s permit (BG): This allows you to sell both beer and wine to customers who will be consuming it at your location.
• Mixed beverage permit (MB): If you want to sell liquor, wine, and beer for on-site consumption, this is your go-to. It’s the most comprehensive, but it requires more steps and higher fees.

There are also off-premise permits for selling sealed containers to-go, temporary permits for festivals and events, and even licenses for catering alcoholic beverages. Be clear on your business model. Do you plan to serve drinks while parked at a brewery? Sell sealed beer cans to-go from your truck? Or host pop-up dinners with wine pairings? Knowing this helps you apply for the right license.

Take note: getting a liquor license in Texas can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on your location and how complex your request is. This is how the process would generally look like:

1. Application with TABC: You’ll start by creating an account on the TABC website and filling out your application. You’ll need to list business details, your operating location(s), alcohol type, and more.
2. Zoning & location approval: The city or county where you plan to operate needs to approve your location for alcohol sales. Some areas are considered “dry” and don’t allow alcohol sales at all. Others may require zoning approvals or public hearings.
3. Background check: TABC conducts background checks on business owners and key staff to ensure everyone meets the legal requirements to sell alcohol.
4. Public notices: In some cases, you’ll need to post public notices or even have a hearing, especially if you’re applying for a Mixed Beverage Permit.
5. Fees: The cost varies widely. Some permits are a few hundred dollars, while others, especially those involving liquor, can run into the thousands. Your location and license type both impact the final cost.

Now, if alcohol is part of your food truck’s idea or concept, don’t wait until the last minute. Start the TABC process early, ideally while you’re setting up the rest of your permits and equipment. Having everything lined up at the same time helps you hit the ground running.

Also, remember that liquor licenses must be renewed annually. Keep that date on your calendar and prepare any documentation well ahead of time.

Common mistakes to avoid when filing for permits and licenses for food trucks in Texas

Starting a food truck in Texas is a fun ride, but like any business, it comes with a few bumps in the road. With a bit of planning, you can avoid common mistakes that might slow you down. 

1. Incomplete applications

It might seem minor, but submitting an application with missing or incorrect information is one of the biggest reasons permit approvals get delayed. Every document matters—from business licenses and commissary agreements to floor plans and insurance paperwork.

Before submitting anything, take the time to review each form carefully. Double-check names, addresses, and EINs. Make sure your truck’s layout meets your city’s requirements and that your contact info is current. It’s also smart to keep digital and printed copies of all documents you send out, just in case someone needs a quick reference or a resubmission.

2. Not researching local rules

This is a big one. Each city and county in Texas has its own set of rules for food trucks. What flies in Austin might not be allowed in Fort Worth. Some places have strict zoning laws, others have noise ordinances, and a few might not even allow food trucks on public streets at all.

Before you make plans to operate in a new city, visit their local health department website or give them a call. Ask about mobile food unit permits, parking laws, event requirements, and anything else that could affect how or where you can operate. Understanding these differences up front helps you avoid expensive violations or being shut down mid-service.

3. Underestimating health & fire codes

Health and fire regulations aren’t just red tape, but they’re the foundation of safe operations. Yet, new operators sometimes overlook these codes, thinking they can be handled last minute. That’s a risky move.

Health inspectors will be looking for proper food storage, temperature control, clean water supply, sanitation processes, and pest control. Fire marshals will want to see extinguishers, suppression systems, ventilation, and safe propane tank setups.

Don’t just aim to pass the inspection—build your setup around these codes from day one. It’ll help you breeze through inspections, reduce your risk of shutdowns, and keep your staff and customers safe.

4. Letting permits expire

Permits are not set-and-forget. Many need to be renewed annually or biannually, and missing a deadline, even by a few days, can mean operating illegally.

The easiest way to stay on top of this is to create a renewal calendar. Mark every expiration date for your health permit, fire inspection, commissary agreement, food safety certifications, and anything else that applies to your truck. Set reminders 30 and 60 days out so you have time to gather documents, schedule inspections, and process payments.

Below is a permit checklist you may use for reference. This may help you and your staff to quickly verify if everything is current, especially before heading to a new city or major event.

Clear the legal speed bumps before hitting the road

Marcus Samuelsson, a Swedish-American celebrity chef, once said, “Food trucks are like the new pop-up restaurants, except they’re on wheels.” It may sound exciting and easy at first, but starting a food truck in Texas requires hustle, patience, and a great deal of paperwork. Once you’re licensed, inspected, and insured, you can then focus on what you truly love: serving great food.

Once you’re rolling, tools like 7shifts can help you manage your team, schedule shifts, and handle efficient communication so you can spend less time juggling logistics and more time serving customers.

Now that you’ve got everything it takes to make this work, go get that truck on the road. Texas is hungry.