Food Truck Permits & Licenses in Texas: What You Actually Need (2026)

Before You Serve a Single Taco

Texas is one of the most food-truck-friendly states in the country — and it's about to get even easier. House Bill 2844 (the "Food Truck Freedom Bill") takes full effect on July 1, 2026, creating a single statewide permit and removing the state-level commissary requirement. This is a major change from the previous patchwork of city/county permits.

This guide covers what you need right now and what's changing. We recommend verifying all fees and requirements directly with your local health department and DSHS — regulations change, and this guide is a starting point, not legal advice.

Big Change: HB 2844 (Effective July 1, 2026)

Texas passed HB 2844, which creates a single statewide mobile food vendor permit administered by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). This replaces the old system where each city issued its own permit. The law also removes the state-level commissary kitchen requirement, though local ordinances may still apply.

Operators who previously spent $650–$1,000+ securing multiple local permits should see significant savings.

State-Level Requirements

1. Texas Sales Tax Permit (Required)

Every food truck in Texas needs a sales tax permit from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. This is free to obtain and allows you to collect and remit sales tax (6.25% state + up to 2% local).

Where to apply: Texas Comptroller website or in person at a field office.

2. DSHS Health Permit

The Texas Department of State Health Services issues health permits for mobile food units.

• Application fee: $258 (initial, renewal, or change of ownership)
• Amendment fee: $125
• County-level fees may also apply and vary from $100–$1,000+ depending on food type and risk level

3. Food Handler Certifications

Texas requires that all food employees complete an accredited food handler training program. DSHS maintains a list of approved programs.

• Cost: Typically $7–$15 per person online
• Renewal: Every 2 years
• Who needs it: Every person who handles, prepares, or serves food
• Statewide recognition: Any DSHS-accredited card is valid across all of Texas

Additionally, Texas requires at least one Certified Food Manager on-site during all operating hours. This requires passing a more rigorous exam (like ServSafe Manager or equivalent ANSI-accredited program).

• Exam cost: $80–$180 depending on provider
• Renewal: Every 5 years

4. Mobile Food Unit Permit

Before July 2026: Issued at the county or city level. Your local health department inspects your truck and issues the permit. After July 2026: Single statewide permit through DSHS (exact fee TBD — verify with DSHS). Requirements generally include:

• Handwashing station with hot and cold running water
• Three-compartment sink for dishwashing
• Proper food storage temperatures (cold-holding below 41°F, hot-holding above 135°F)
• Adequate ventilation and fire suppression (if cooking with grease)
• Waste water holding tank
• Approved water supply

5. Commissary Requirement

Most Texas cities require that your food truck operate out of an approved commissary kitchen — a licensed commercial kitchen where you prep food, clean equipment, and store supplies overnight. You'll need a commissary agreement letter for your permit application.

City-Specific Requirements

Austin

Austin has been a leader in food truck culture and has relatively clear regulations:

• Two permit types: Unrestricted (~$239/yr + $158 application fee) and Restricted (~$212/yr, pre-packaged only)
• Applications must be submitted via the My Health Department Customer Portal (no email)
• Trucks must operate from a permitted site (not just any curb)
• Right-of-way vending requires a separate Special Event Closure permit from Austin Transportation Dept
• Fire inspection required if using propane or grease-vapor equipment — contact the Austin Fire Department
• Commissary agreement required
• Annual health inspections

Houston

Houston has historically had lighter regulations compared to other major cities:

• Mobile Food Unit Permit from the City of Houston Health Department
• Health inspection required before permit issuance
• Must have a commissary agreement
• Specific rules about proximity to brick-and-mortar restaurants (check current distance requirements with the city)
• Fire marshal inspection for cooking equipment

Dallas

• Mobile Food Establishment Permit from Dallas County Health & Human Services
• Plan review required before first inspection
• Commissary agreement required
• Annual renewal with re-inspection

San Antonio

• Mobile Food Unit Permit from San Antonio Metro Health District
• Health inspection and plan review
• Fire inspection if using open flames or deep fryers
• Must display permit visibly on the truck
• Specific zoning restrictions — verify permitted operating areas

Fire Safety

If your truck uses propane, deep fryers, or open flame cooking, you'll need:

• A fire suppression system (hood and Ansul system) — required in most Texas cities
• Fire extinguisher (typically Class K for kitchen fires)
• Fire safety inspection — conducted by the local fire marshal
• Propane tank certification

Cost for fire suppression system: Varies significantly — get multiple quotes from certified installers. Verify requirements with your local fire marshal.

Common Pitfalls for Texas Operators

Renewal Timeline at a Glance

Keep Your Permits Organized

Tracking renewal dates across multiple permits is one of the most common headaches for food truck operators. PitStop's built-in permit tracker lets you log every permit, set custom renewal alerts (30, 14, and 7 days out), and see everything on one dashboard — so you never get caught with an expired license.

Start tracking your permits free →

*Last updated: March 2026. Requirements and fees change — always verify with your local health department and city government before applying. This guide is informational only and does not constitute legal advice.*