Start a Food Truck in Houston, TX
A step-by-step guide to opening a food truck around Houston, TX.
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.
- Since July 1, 2026, every mobile food vendor in Texas must be licensed by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Operators who already held a local health department license can apply to DSHS by showing proof of that license.
- DSHS inspects the unit before the license is issued. Each vehicle needs its own license.
- Local fire, zoning and parking rules still apply, and some cities have their own vendor requirements, so check with your city before you sell.
- The technical rules are in 25 TAC 228.221 and the Texas Food Establishment Rules. Confirm current fees on the DSHS page.
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.
Food truck associations
Curious who is already out there? See food trucks near Houston, TX. Permit rules for the rest of Texas are in the Texas guide.