TYPE I
Prepackaged Vendor
Packaged food only — no open preparation on vehicle
Application fee$309
Pre-licensing inspectionNot required
Annual routine inspectionNot required
Complaint / compliance inspection$300
Re-inspection feeNot required
Total to apply (Year 1)$309
TYPE II
Limited Preparation
ROP foods, minimal prep, snow cones, hot dogs, deli
Application fee$618
Pre-licensing inspection$400
Routine inspection (frequency TBD by DSHS)$400
Complaint / compliance inspection$400
Failed pre-licensing re-inspection$400
Total to apply (Year 1)$1,018
TYPE III
Full Food Preparation
Tacos, burgers, BBQ, made-to-order, full kitchen
Application fee$876
Pre-licensing inspection$500
Routine inspection (frequency TBD by DSHS)$500
Complaint / compliance inspection$500
Failed pre-licensing re-inspection$500
Total to apply (Year 1)$1,376
Failed inspection fees are non-trivial. If your vehicle does not pass the pre-licensing inspection, you cannot operate and must correct all deficiencies before rescheduling. Each return visit costs $400 (Type II) or $500 (Type III). Getting inspection-ready before your appointment is the most cost-effective move you can make.
The Four Fee Types — What Each One Actually Means
DSHS charges four distinct fees under HB 2844. They are not the same thing and they don't all happen at the same time. Understanding each one matters.
| Fee Type | Type I | Type II | Type III | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $309 | $618 | $876 | Paid once at initial application. Non-refundable. |
| Pre-licensing inspection fee | — | $400 | $500 | Paid once at initial application. One-time only. Required before your license is issued. |
| Year 1 total to apply | $309 | $1,018 | $1,376 | What you pay upfront to get licensed. |
| Routine inspection fee | — | $400 | $500 | Charged while you are licensed and operating — randomized, statewide, no advance notice required. DSHS has not published a fixed annual frequency for this inspection in its current guide; confirm your exact schedule directly with DSHS. |
| Complaint / compliance inspection fee | $300 | $400 | $500 | Triggered when anyone files a complaint against your operation. You pay this fee regardless of whether the complaint has merit. DSHS investigates. Keeping documentation current is your only protection. |
| Failed pre-licensing re-inspection | — | $400 | $500 | If your initial pre-licensing inspection fails, you pay this fee each time you reschedule — on top of what you already paid. |
Source: DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide, Updated May 2026. Fees include a Texas Online processing fee. Verify current fees at dshs.texas.gov before applying.
Our Fee Is Separate from DSHS.
The fees above go directly to the State of Texas. Our $99 Pre-Inspection Review is what makes sure your application and vehicle pass — so you're not paying re-inspection fees or losing operating days to a preventable failure.
Frequently Asked Questions About DSHS Fees
When do I pay the DSHS fees?
The application fee and pre-licensing inspection fee are paid together at the time of application through DSHS Online Licensing Services. Routine inspection fees are charged on an ongoing basis while you are licensed — $400 for Type II and $500 for Type III, per the DSHS fee schedule. DSHS has not published a fixed inspection frequency, so confirm your exact schedule directly with DSHS. Complaint and compliance inspection fees are separate and triggered only if a complaint is filed against your operation.
Does DSHS refund the application fee if I'm denied?
DSHS application fees are generally non-refundable. This is one reason getting your documentation and vehicle in order before you apply is so important — a denied application or failed inspection means you've paid fees without getting a license.
Do I pay fees for every truck separately?
Yes. A separate DSHS license is required for each food vending vehicle you operate. Each vehicle requires its own application fee and pre-licensing inspection fee.
Is there a Texas Online fee included in these amounts?
Yes. DSHS application fees include a small Texas Online processing fee built into the totals listed here. The amounts shown are what you pay total through Online Licensing Services.
How long does my DSHS license last?
Your DSHS MFV license expires one year from the date of your successfully completed pre-licensing inspection. After that, annual renewal applies, along with routine inspection fees per the DSHS fee schedule. Confirm your exact inspection schedule directly with DSHS.