Texas Changes Food Truck Rules: New License Required, When Drivers Need a CDL

Texas has officially launched a new statewide regulatory framework for mobile food vendors, encompassing food trucks, which took effect on July 1. This new system, established by House Bill 2844 (HB 2844), mandates that each mobile food vendor must obtain an individual state permit for every vehicle they operate. Furthermore, the legislation clarifies the specific circumstances under which a driver must possess a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

Under HB 2844, operating as a mobile food vendor without the required state license is prohibited. While a single owner can apply for permits for multiple vehicles in one submission, each transport unit must be individually registered. The application process requires comprehensive business information, background checks, insurance details, and documentation specific to each vehicle. The state authority reserves the right to request additional documentation and can reject incomplete applications, while also penalizing the submission of false or deliberately omitted information.

Following the submission of an application, the designated state agency or a collaborating governmental entity has 14 days to conduct a sanitary inspection. Successful completion of this inspection is a prerequisite for permit issuance. Vendors who already held a valid local permit before the transition period can continue operating while awaiting their state inspection, provided they have submitted their application to the DSHS and paid the associated fees, keeping a printed copy of their application summary in their vehicle.

The state license is valid for one year from its issuance date. The issuing agency is responsible for notifying the vendor before the expiration date, initiating the renewal process. Vendors can continue their operations while a renewal application is pending. Importantly, the permit is non-transferable to another individual. However, replacing a vehicle does not necessitate a complete reapplication; the owner must simply report the new transport's details and ensure it passes an inspection within 14 days. New owners acquiring existing businesses must obtain their own credentials before commencing operations. Both the permit and the most recent sanitary inspection certificate must be visibly displayed to the public.