Updated June 2026Pre-licensing + routine inspectionsPass first try
The direct answer.
Texas food trucks must pass a DSHS pre-licensing inspection before receiving their Mobile Food Vendor license. Type II operators pay $400 and Type III operators pay $500 for this inspection. If you fail, you pay again to reschedule. Most failures come from preparation issues, not equipment issues — operators show up with trucks that need external connections, missing documentation, or equipment that isn't labeled correctly.
The pre-licensing inspection — what to expect.
The pre-licensing inspection is conducted by DSHS or a local health department acting under a DSHS collaborative agreement. The inspector verifies that your truck meets all physical and operational standards before your license is issued.
Critical — your truck must be fully independentDuring the inspection, your truck must operate without any external connections — no external power, no external water supply. Everything must run on board. This is the most common reason operators fail. Show up with a truck that needs hookups and you fail immediately.
Equipment the inspector will verify
All cooking equipment installed, operational, and running without external power
Handwashing sink — separate from warewashing, with soap dispenser and paper towels
Three-compartment warewashing sink with drain boards on both sides
Refrigeration holding 41°F or below — thermometer must be present and calibrated
Hot holding equipment capable of maintaining 135°F or above
Potable water tank clearly labeled "POTABLE WATER" in large letters
Wastewater retention tank clearly labeled "WASTEWATER" — at least 15% larger than potable tank
Adequate lighting — 50 foot-candles minimum at food prep surfaces
Pest-proof construction — no gaps or openings to exterior
Fire suppression system if using fryers or open flame (also verified by fire department)
Documentation you must have on board
Food manager certification — original or certified copy, must be ANSI-accredited and current
Complete menu listing every item you intend to sell
Commissary authorization letter OR CPF exemption documentation from DSHS
Servicing area authorization if you don't own the facility
Proof of potable water source — utility bill or letter from water provider showing approved municipal source
Vehicle registration
Want to make sure you pass first try? Our $99 review includes a full inspection readiness assessment — we go through every checklist item before your appointment so there are no surprises.
After initial licensing, your truck will receive annual routine inspections as part of license renewal. These cost $400 for Type II and $500 for Type III and are scheduled by DSHS. The same physical standards apply — your truck must always be maintained to inspection-ready condition.
DSHS may also conduct unannounced complaint-based inspections at any time. These cost $300–$500 and can result in temporary permit suspension if serious violations are found.
Common inspection failure reasons.
Failure Reason
How to Prevent It
Truck requires external power or water
Test full independent operation before your appointment
Water tanks not labeled correctly
Label both tanks in large, permanent lettering before the inspection
Wastewater tank too small
Verify your wastewater tank is at least 15% larger than your potable water tank
Missing or expired food manager cert
Bring the original or certified copy — verify it's current and ANSI-accredited
Incomplete menu
List every item you plan to sell — inspectors check menu against your equipment setup
Handwashing sink blocked or missing supplies
Soap and paper towels must be present and accessible at the handwashing station
Refrigeration not at 41°F
Pre-cool your unit and have a calibrated thermometer visible inside
FAQ — Inspection questions.
How long does the pre-licensing inspection take?
Most pre-licensing inspections take 30 to 60 minutes. The inspector goes through a standardized checklist and documents any violations. If your truck is well-prepared, the process is fast and straightforward.
What happens if I fail the pre-licensing inspection?
You pay another inspection fee ($400 for Type II, $500 for Type III) to reschedule. DSHS will document the specific violations you need to correct. You cannot receive your license until you pass. There's no limit to how many times you can reschedule — but each attempt costs money.
Who conducts the inspection — DSHS or my local health department?
Under HB 2844, inspections are conducted by DSHS or by a local health department acting under a formal collaborative agreement with DSHS. The inspector is authorized by the state regardless of which agency shows up.
Can I request a specific inspection date?
After submitting your DSHS application and paying the inspection fee, DSHS will contact you to schedule. You can typically request a date range but cannot specify an exact date. Lead times vary — in busy periods, scheduling can take 2 to 4 weeks after application submission.
Don't fail your inspection
Pass it right the first time.
Our review covers every inspection requirement before your appointment. One failed inspection costs $400. The review costs $99.