Food trucks need more permits than almost any other business. Missing even one can get you shut down mid-service. Here's every permit you need.
Start here. Issued by your city or county. Typically $25–$150/year. Apply to the city's Finance or Revenue office. This is the base license every business needs.
A specific permit for mobile food operations. Some cities call it a Mobile Food Facility Permit, Mobile Food Unit License, or Peddler's License. This is separate from the general business license. Apply to your city's health or licensing department.
The big one. Your local or county health department inspects your truck to verify food safety compliance — equipment, storage, temperature controls, handwashing facilities. This is required before you serve a single customer.
Most cities require food trucks to operate out of a licensed commercial kitchen (commissary) for food prep, cleaning, and storage. You must provide proof of a commissary agreement when you apply for your health permit. Find a licensed commissary kitchen near you and sign an agreement before applying.
Your food truck is also a motor vehicle. It needs current vehicle registration. Some cities also require a vehicle inspection for commercial food vehicles.
If your truck uses gas equipment, fryers, or any fire-risk equipment, most cities require a fire marshal inspection and may require a fire suppression system (hood with suppression for fryers/grills).
You typically cannot park and sell anywhere you want. Many cities designate approved food truck locations. Others require you to get permission from private property owners and sometimes the city for each location. Some require a separate vending permit per location.
Register with your state's department of revenue to collect sales tax on food sales. Whether food is taxable depends on your state — most states tax prepared hot food but not groceries. Free to obtain.
Free from IRS.gov. Required by many cities and states during the application process. Takes 5 minutes online.
Don't wait for permit #1 to arrive before applying for permit #2. The whole process can take 6–12 weeks. Start all applications simultaneously.
⚠️ Heads up: This site explains business licensing in plain English. Not legal advice. Rules change. Always verify with your actual city or state office. Affiliate disclosure.