Food Truck Permit Requirements in Phoenix, AZ

1. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

   Issued by the IRS at no cost. Required if you have employees, operate as an LLC or corporation, or open a business bank account. Apply online through the IRS website and receive your EIN immediately upon approval.

   Official government source

   Free·Same day (online)

   Free

   Same day (online)

1. Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License

   Issued by the Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR). Arizona's TPT is the equivalent of a sales tax license and is required for food truck operators selling taxable food and beverages. Apply online through AZTaxes.gov. Most prepared food sales are subject to TPT.

   Official government source

   $12 one-time registration·1–2 weeks

   $12 one-time registration

   1–2 weeks

2. Arizona Food Handler Card

   Required by the Arizona Department of Health Services. All food handlers must obtain a food handler card from an ADHS-approved provider. At least one certified food manager (ServSafe or equivalent) must be on-site during operations.

   Official government source

   $10–$15 per card·1 day

   $10–$15 per card

   1 day

3. Arizona LLC or Business Entity Registration

   Register your business entity with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) if operating as an LLC or corporation. Sole proprietors may operate under a trade name (DBA) filed with the county recorder. ACC registration provides liability protection.

   Official government source

   $50–$85 filing fee·1–2 weeks

   $50–$85 filing fee

   1–2 weeks

1. City of Phoenix Mobile Food Unit Permit

   Issued by Phoenix Environmental Services Division. Required for all mobile food units operating within Phoenix city limits. Covers vehicle inspection, food safety compliance, and commissary agreement verification. Must operate from an approved commissary kitchen.

   Official government source

   $250–$400/year·2–4 weeks

   $250–$400/year

   2–4 weeks

2. Maricopa County Environmental Health Mobile Food Permit

   Issued by Maricopa County Environmental Health Department. Required for any food vehicle operating in Maricopa County regardless of city. Covers sanitation inspection, food handling practices, and commissary agreement. Renewal is annual.

   Official government source

   $300/year·2–3 weeks

   $300/year

   2–3 weeks

3. City of Phoenix Business License

   Required for all businesses operating within Phoenix city limits. Obtained through the City of Phoenix Finance Department. Must be renewed annually. No special additional local license is needed beyond this for a food truck.

   Official government source

   $50/year·1 week

   $50/year

   1 week

Official Sources

• phoenix.gov
• maricopa.gov
• azdor.gov
• azdhs.gov

Related Guides