This is the exact documentation and readiness list published in the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide — not a paraphrase. If you show up with everything below, you've covered what DSHS says to bring.
Bring With You
- Driver's license / CDL
- Employee health policy
- Proof of insurance and TXDOT information
- Menu
- Food allergen poster
- Itinerary
The itinerary matters more than it looks. DSHS designates a location for your inspection — if you don't operate from a fixed spot, your itinerary is part of how they coordinate where to meet you.
"TXDOT information" specifically includes your loaded vehicle weight record, issued by the Texas Department of Transportation. This is easy to miss and shows up separately on the full inspection checklist.
Required by Type of Operation
- Food manager and food handler certifications
- Central preparation facility (CPF) or servicing area documentation
Whether you need a CPF depends on your MFV type and whether you qualify for the commissary exemption. If you're not sure which applies to you, see our CPF exemption guide.
Want to Make Sure Your Food Truck Is Ready Before Inspection?
Get the Food Truck Success Kit — a practical preparation guide with checklists, document organization, and inspection preparation tips created for Texas food truck operators.
GET THE SUCCESS KIT FOR $29Be Ready to Answer
Part of the inspection is verbal. Inspectors will ask about:
- Types of food served
- Source(s) of food product
- Vehicle-specific questions (e.g., tank size)
- Location of restroom facilities
- Employee illness policy
- Basic food safety questions
None of this requires memorizing a script — it's about knowing your own operation. If you can explain where your food comes from, how you handle an employee who's sick, and the basics of your tank setup, you're ready.
Want to Make Sure Your Food Truck Is Ready Before Inspection?
Get the Food Truck Success Kit — a practical preparation guide with checklists, document organization, and inspection preparation tips created for Texas food truck operators.
GET THE SUCCESS KIT FOR $29We Check Every Item on This List.
Our Permit Readiness Review confirms every item here against your specific setup before your appointment.
START MY REVIEW — $99 · WE BEGIN IMMEDIATELYThe Full Inspection Checklist
Beyond what you bring, DSHS inspects against a formal 28-item checklist covering water systems, sinks, holding equipment, structural requirements, and mobility. That's a separate, more technical list — see our equipment requirements guide for the full breakdown.