Food Truck Permit Requirements in Austin, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Austin, Travis County, Texas.

Updated 2026-02-15 9 stops $500–$1,200 est. 2-6 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

4 stops

  1. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Texas. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

  2. Certified Food Manager Certification

    At least one person on-site must hold a Certified Food Manager certification when handling TCS foods. Must pass an accredited exam (e.g., ServSafe, ANSI-CFP).

    Official government source

    $80-$150 (exam + course)1-2 days for course and exam

  3. Texas Food Handler Card

    All food employees must complete a state-accredited food handler training program within 60 days of employment.

    Official government source

    $7-$15 per person2-4 hours online

  4. Commercial Vehicle Registration

    Your food truck must be registered as a commercial vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

    Official government source

    $50-$200 depending on vehicle weightSame day at county tax office

City of Austin / Travis County

4 stops

  1. Mobile Food Vendor Permit (Unrestricted)

    Required for all mobile food vendors preparing food on-site in Austin. Issued by Austin Public Health, Environmental Health Services Division. Allows preparation and sale of all food types including time/temperature control for safety (TCS) foods.

    Official government source

    $370/year (application fee + annual permit fee)2-4 weeks after application submission and inspection

  2. Mobile Food Vendor Permit (Restricted)

    For vendors selling only pre-packaged foods or beverages. Lower cost alternative if you do not prepare food on-site.

    Official government source

    $370/year ($212 annual fee + $158 application fee)1-2 weeks

  3. Fire Department Inspection

    Required if your food truck uses propane, produces smoke, or has grease-laden vapor-producing appliances. Austin Fire Department must inspect and approve your setup.

    Official government source

    No separate fee (included in permitting process)Scheduled as part of the permit inspection

  4. Right-of-Way Vending Permit

    Required if you plan to vend from a parking space, sidewalk, or street in the public right-of-way. Issued by Austin Transportation Department.

    Official government source

    Varies by location2-4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,200 · 2-6 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections

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Official Sources

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