Texas food truck operators will no longer need to obtain a separate license in every city or county where they do business under a new statewide licensing system that takes effect in July.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) announced that it has opened applications for a new statewide license for mobile food vendors, including food trucks, pushcarts, and roadside vendors.
The change stems from House Bill 2844, passed in 2025, which eliminates the requirement that vendors obtain a separate license in each local jurisdiction. Under the new law, all mobile food vendors must hold a DSHS license to operate by July 1, 2026.
“Our goal is to make this transitional period as smooth as possible for vendors, their customers and the local jurisdictions that previously licensed them,” said Timothy Stevenson, deputy commissioner for consumer protection at DSHS. “Current mobile food vendors may continue to operate after July 1 if they have submitted a complete application for a DSHS license, including paying the required fees.”
Spectators buy treats at a food truck before the start of the Cinco de Mayo Parade in Abilene Tuesday May 5, 2026. This was the first parade that returned to the traditional route utilizing Cypress Street after the downtown renovation of the entire corridor.
According to DSHS, once a mobile food vendor passes its pre-licensing inspection, the department will issue a new license valid for one year from the inspection date. Until vendors receive their new DSHS license, they must keep hard copies of their existing local license, DSHS application summary and payment receipt on site at all times.
DSHS said it will prioritize inspections for new mobile food vendors without an existing license since they cannot operate until they have passed inspection. The department also noted that while it is responsible for licensing and enforcement under the new law, most inspections will be carried out through agreements with local jurisdictions.
In the meantime, DSHS stated that vendors must also continue to comply with all applicable state and local laws.
Prospective licensees can find more information on the requirements for operating a mobile food vendor, the categories of MFV, the licensing process, fees, and an inspection checklist in the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide at dshs.texas.gov/foodestablishments/mobile-food-vendor-guide.pdf.
Individuals can begin their license application through the online system at dshs.texas.gov/retail-food-establishments/mobile-food-vendors.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas DSHS food truck license deadline, application process