Food Truck Permit Requirements in San Antonio, TX

Everything you need to know about permits and licenses for starting a food truck in San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas.

Important Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Permit requirements, fees, and timelines may change. Always verify current requirements directly with your local government authority before making business decisions.

Last verified:

Estimated Total Cost

$400 – $900

Estimated Timeline

3-5 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections

San Antonio / Bexar County Requirements

San Antonio Mobile Food Establishment Permit

Required for all mobile food vendors operating within San Antonio city limits. Issued by the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (SAMHD). Permit tier is based on the type of food handled: non-potentially hazardous pre-packaged food, packaged potentially hazardous food, or openly handled potentially hazardous food (e.g., hot meals). Inspections are by appointment, call (210) 207-0135. Must use an approved licensed commissary.

Cost:$103 (non-potentially hazardous pre-packaged food), $206 (packaged potentially hazardous), or $309/year (openly handled/hot meals)
Timeline:2-4 weeks (inspections Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment)
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San Antonio Fire Department Permit

Required if your food truck uses propane, open flame cooking, or grease-producing appliances. The San Antonio Fire Department must inspect and approve your fire suppression system and LP-gas setup.

Cost:$300 plus 3% processing surcharge
Timeline:2-3 weeks
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Bexar County Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate

If operating under any name other than your legal name, you must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Bexar County Clerk. This is not a city business license, but is commonly required for bank accounts and business operations.

Cost:$9 plus $0.50 per additional owner; $7 for a certified copy
Timeline:Same day (in-person) or 1-2 weeks (by mail)
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Texas State Requirements

Texas Sales Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Texas. Prepared food sold by food trucks is taxable. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Cost:Free
Timeline:Immediate (online application)
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Certified Food Manager Certification

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

Cost:$80-$150 (exam + course)
Timeline:1-2 days for course and exam
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Texas Food Handler Card

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

Cost:$7-$15 per person
Timeline:2-4 hours online
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Commercial Vehicle Registration

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

Cost:$50-$200 depending on vehicle weight
Timeline:Same day at county tax office
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Texas H.B. 2844 Statewide Mobile Food Vendor License (effective July 1, 2026)

Beginning July 1, 2026, all mobile food vendors in Texas must hold a single statewide license issued by DSHS. This will replace or supplement local San Antonio permits. Vendors should apply once DSHS opens applications.

Cost:To be determined by DSHS rulemaking (estimated ~$258)
Timeline:Applications expected to open in early 2026
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Federal Requirements

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

Cost:Free
Timeline:Immediate (online application)
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Official Sources

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