Start a Food Truck in Alabama
A step-by-step guide to opening a food truck in Alabama.
Information last reviewed 2026-11-09.
1. Write down your concept and numbers
Decide what you will sell, who will buy it and what each plate costs you. A short menu you can cook fast is the best start for a truck.
2. Set up your business
Form a business entity (many owners choose an LLC), get a federal tax ID (EIN) and open a business bank account.
3. Choose and equip your truck
Buy or lease a truck, trailer or cart and have it fitted with the cooking, refrigeration, hand-washing and fire-safety equipment your local health department requires.
4. Get your permits and licenses
Rules differ by state, county and city, so check the details for your area below.
- Alabama sets mobile food unit standards at the state level (Alabama Department of Public Health, Administrative Code chapter 420-3-22), and your county health department issues the permit.
- A mobile unit generally operates from a commissary permitted by the health department, so line up the commissary before you apply.
- Post your permit and your most recent inspection score where the public can see them inside the unit.
- Cities can add their own rules, so check with the city where you plan to sell. There is no single statewide permit that covers every jurisdiction.
- ADPH has proposed replacing chapter 420-3-22 with the FDA Food Code. Ask ADPH or your county which version applies when you apply.
Official and local sources
- ADPH mobile food requirements (PDF)
- Alabama Administrative Code chapter 420-3-22
- ADPH mobile unit plan review checklist (PDF)
Rules and fees change. Confirm with the agency before you apply.
5. Arrange a commissary and insurance
Many areas require a licensed commissary kitchen for prep, water and waste. Get general liability and commercial auto insurance before you operate.
6. Plan where you will sell
Look at breweries, markets, offices, festivals and events. Add your stops to a schedule so customers can find you.
7. Sign up for EasyEats
EasyEats is the point of sale built for food trucks. Take orders and card payments from one tablet, let customers order ahead, and post your locations so people can find you.