Texas Launches Statewide Food‑Truck License, Ending City Permit Maze

Effective July 1 2026, Texas will issue a single statewide mobile‑food‑vendor license, replacing the previous requirement for separate city and county permits. The change stems from House Bill 2844, passed by the Texas Legislature in 2025 and signed by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025. The Texas Department of State Health Services now administers the licensing, which is offered in three tiers based on the level of food preparation, with fees ranging from $309 for pre‑packaged sales to $618 plus a $400 inspection for limited cooking, and annual renewals of $300‑$850.

The agency estimates the new system will cover roughly 19,000 food trucks and generate up to $17 million annually in fees. A public database will provide customers with inspection histories and complaint records for each licensed truck. While many operators, especially those that travel across multiple jurisdictions, will see cost savings, some trucks that previously sold only pre‑packaged items may now incur new fees.