FEATURED GUIDE
What Actually Happens During Your DSHS Pre-Licensing Inspection
A real, first-hand account of what the DSHS pre-licensing inspection actually looks like — where it happens, what has to be running, how long it takes, and what inspectors check. Verified against official DSHS requirements.
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Texas Food Truck Permit Transition Tracker (HB 2844)
A running, dated log of what DSHS is actually telling operators during the transition — verified by phone, stamped, and updated as clarification comes in.
Can I Still Operate My Food Truck While My Texas Permit Is Pending?
Waiting on your DSHS license? If you held a local permit within the last year and your application is in, DSHS told us you can keep working while it's reviewed.
My Texas Food Truck Permit Expired — Can I Still Get Licensed?
DSHS confirmed a local permit held within the last year still qualifies you — even if it's already expired. Confirmed on two separate calls.
A Real DSHS Inspection, In Their Own Words
An anonymous operator walks through their actual DSHS pre-licensing inspection, question by question.
Texas Law Requires a Food Truck Inspection Within 14 Days of a Complete Application
A real statutory deadline most guides miss — plus the "complete application" catch that actually determines when it starts.
What to Bring to Your DSHS Pre-Licensing Inspection: The Official Checklist
The exact documentation and readiness list from the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide — straight from the source.
HB 2844 Explained: The Complete Guide for Texas Food Truck Operators
Everything Texas food truck operators need to know about HB 2844 — what changed, your MFV type, fees, and your exact next steps.
What Happens If You Fail Your DSHS Food Truck Inspection?
Failed inspections cost $400–$500 per visit and ground your truck. Here's what happens, why operators fail, and how to avoid it.
Category 1 vs Category 2: Which HB 2844 Applicant Are You?
Your applicant category determines whether you can keep operating while DSHS processes your application. Here's how to know.
5 Mistakes Texas Food Truck Operators Are Making Under HB 2844
These five mistakes are costing Texas operators hundreds of dollars and weeks of downtime. Here's what they are and how to avoid them.
Food Truck Permit Houston TX: What You Need Under HB 2844
The Houston medallion system is gone. Here's exactly what Houston food truck operators need to operate legally in 2026.
Houston Fire Marshal Requirements: What's Separate From Your DSHS License
LP-gas permits, the 25-foot spacing rule, and the fire inspection most guides skip entirely.
Texas Food Truck Commissary Exemption Under HB 2844: Do You Qualify?
There is a CPF exemption — but most operators don't meet it. Here's exactly what's required and how to know if your truck qualifies.
How Much Does a Texas Food Truck License Cost in 2026?
The real cost of a DSHS license under HB 2844 — application fees, inspection fees, re-inspection costs, and annual renewal by type.
How to License a Taco Truck in Texas Under HB 2844
Running a taco truck in Texas? You're Type III. Here's what that means, what your inspection covers, and how to pass the first time.
What Happens If You Don't Apply Before July 1, 2026?
HB 2844 takes effect July 1. Here's exactly what happens to operators who haven't applied by then — and why waiting costs more than applying now.
What It Really Costs to Start a Food Truck in Texas (2026)
DSHS fees are the smallest line item. Here's the real total cost breakdown — vehicle, equipment, commissary, and working capital.
Food Truck Equipment Requirements Under HB 2844: The Complete List
Every equipment requirement DSHS checks at inspection — water tanks, sinks, holding equipment, ventilation, and more.
Food Truck Permit Dallas TX: What You Need Under HB 2844
Dallas County permitting is now preempted by state law. Here's exactly what Dallas operators need to operate legally in 2026.
Food Truck Permit San Antonio TX: What You Need Under HB 2844
Metro Health's local permitting is being replaced by a single statewide license. Here's what changes for San Antonio operators.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Texas Food Truck License?
From application to inspection to issued license — the real timeline, and what actually speeds it up or slows it down.
How to Choose a Commissary (CPF) for Your Texas Food Truck
Most Type II and III trucks need a CPF. Here's what to actually look for in a commissary beyond just finding one that's open.
Food Truck vs. Pushcart vs. Roadside Vendor: What DSHS Requires
DSHS treats trucks, pushcarts, and roadside vendors differently — different equipment rules apply to each. Here's the breakdown.
How to Renew Your Texas Food Truck License Before It Expires
Your license expires one year from your inspection date. Here's what renewal actually involves and how to avoid an operating gap.
Do You Need Insurance for a Texas Food Truck License?
Proof of insurance is on the DSHS checklist. Here's what that actually means and what DSHS does and doesn't specify.
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