What licenses and permits are required to open a food truck in the Texas state?

To open a food truck in Texas, you need to obtain a permit from the Department of State Health Services, meet the requirements as per the Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER), and adhere to specific guidelines for Mobile Food Units (MFU). The process involves an initial inspection, application for a new permit or renewal of a current one, and adherence to specific construction and operation standards.

1. Mobile Food Unit Permit

• Purpose: This permit is required to legally operate a food truck in Texas. It classifies your food truck as a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) under the Department of State Health Services.
• Estimated Cost: The fee for initial applications, renewals, and change of ownership is $258 per unit. If you need to amend an existing permit, the amendment fees are $125.00.
• How to Register: You can apply for a new permit or renew a current permit through the Regulatory Services online licensing system or by completing and returning the Mobile Unit Food Establishment Permit Application.

2. Central Preparation Facility (CPF) Authorization

• Purpose: Your MFU must operate from a CPF or other fixed establishment and report to such location for supplies and for cleaning and servicing operations. If the CPF or servicing area is not owned by the MFU operator, then a signed letter of authorization is required.
• Estimated Cost: No specific cost is mentioned for this authorization.
• How to Register: This is not a separate registration but a requirement that needs to be fulfilled as part of the Mobile Food Unit Permit application process.

3. Variance Request for Operating Without a CPF

• Purpose: If you wish to operate your MFU without a CPF, you must apply for a variance. This involves providing a statement of the proposed variance, an analysis of the rationale for how potential public health hazards and nuisances will be alternatively addressed, and possibly a HACCP Plan.
• Estimated Cost: No specific cost is mentioned for this variance request.
• How to Register: You can apply for this variance by submitting all requested information to the compliance department. The Variance Request Procedures for Mobile Food Units provides detailed information on this process.

For more information, you can refer to the Guidelines for Mobile Food Units and the Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER).

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