Start a Food Truck in Albuquerque, NM
A step-by-step guide to opening a food truck around Albuquerque, NM.
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.
- In New Mexico the Environment Department (NMED) Food Program permits mobile food units everywhere in the state except Albuquerque. The unit must pass an inspection before it operates.
- In Albuquerque, the City Environmental Health Department handles permits, and the Fire Department inspects every mobile food unit except push carts before the health inspection.
- A commissary agreement may be needed for storage, preparation and cleaning, and food handler card rules depend on the agency that applies to you.
Official and local sources
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.
Curious who is already out there? See food trucks near Albuquerque, NM. Permit rules for the rest of New Mexico are in the New Mexico guide.