To open a food truck in New York State, you will need a variety of licenses and permits. These include a Business License, Driver’s License, Vehicle Registration for a Food Truck, Food Handler’s Permit, Employer Identification Number (EIN), Health Department Permit, Fire Certificates, a Commissary Letter of Agreement, and Reseller's and Seller's Permits. If you plan to operate in New York City, you will also need a Mobile Food Vending License and a Mobile Food Vending Permit.
1. Business License
- Purpose: This license, also known as a vending permit, is a recognition from your state’s, county’s, and city’s government that your food truck is a legitimate approved business.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by location.
- How to Register: Consult with a lawyer before applying for this license.
2. Driver’s License Purpose: Required for driving the food truck. Estimated Cost: Varies by state. How to Register: Apply at your local DMV.
3. Vehicle Registration for a Food Truck
- Purpose: Certifies that your truck meets emissions standards and is owned and operated by you.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by state.
- How to Register: Apply at your local DMV.
4. Food Handler’s Permit
- Purpose: Authorizes you and your team to prepare the food.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by location.
- How to Register: Consult with a lawyer before applying for this permit.
5. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Purpose: Issued by the IRS to all new businesses.
- Estimated Cost: Free.
- How to Register: Apply online on the IRS website.
6. Health Department Permit
- Purpose: Certifies that your food truck is up to code with food safety regulations.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by location.
- How to Register: Consult with a lawyer before applying for this permit.
7. Fire Certificates
- Purpose: Prove to authorities that your gas lines and other heating equipment are installed properly.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by location.
- How to Register: Consult with a lawyer before applying for these certificates.
8. Commissary Letter of Agreement
- Purpose: A contract with a specialized food preparation facility.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by agreement.
- How to Register: Consult with a lawyer before applying for this agreement.
9. Reseller's and Seller's Permits
- Purpose: Allow your food truck business to purchase ingredients and materials tax-free and to collect sales tax on your sales respectively.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by location.
- How to Register: Consult with a lawyer before applying for these permits.
10. Mobile Food Vending License (NYC only)
- Purpose: For individuals who will prepare and/or serve food from a permitted mobile food vending unit (truck or pushcart).
- Estimated Cost: $50 for new application, $60 for renewal every 2 years.
- How to Register: Apply in person or online at the New York City Government website and register for a food protection course at the time of application. Apply here
11. Mobile Food Vending Permit (NYC only)
- Purpose: Required for the food vending unit that will be operated.
- Estimated Cost: Varies by permit type.
- How to Register: Apply online at the New York City Government website, by mail, or in person at the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Licensing Center or the NYC Small Business Support Center.
For more information, please refer to the following sources:
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