Insurance requirements for a Texas food truck license
What DSHS requires
- For each motorized food vending vehicle: its license number, description, VIN and registration, proof of vehicle insurance, and any additional commercial vehicle licenses or permits the state requires (HSC 437B.053(a)(6)).
- DSHS's application asks for proof of vehicle insurance for motorized or towed vehicles (trailers), and the driver's license of whoever drives or tows (DSHS how-to).
- Bring proof of insurance and TxDOT information to your inspection (DSHS guide, p. 13).
What DSHS doesn't set
The DSHS license documents don't set a general liability insurance requirement. Event organizers, property owners and cities may have their own requirements in their contracts or permits. Ask each one in writing.
Where to check coverage
We don't give coverage advice. For neutral information, use the Texas Department of Insurance auto insurance guide and Help Line (800-252-3439), and check any agent's license with TDI's lookup. Vehicle registration is through the Texas DMV.
Want help from a local business?
Tell us what you need. With your OK, we pass your request to one independent business that offers the kind of help you pick. It's free for you. We can't file your DSHS application or change DSHS decisions.
TX Food Truck License Guide is an independent guide run by Clearline Labs. We are not the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) or any government agency, and we can't issue, speed up or guarantee a license. We are not an insurance agent or agency: we don't sell, solicit or negotiate insurance or give coverage advice. If we link to or refer you to a business, we may be paid a flat referral fee that does not depend on whether you buy anything.
- DSHS: Mobile Food Vendors (license page, fee schedule, Category One/Two)
- Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 437B, Mobile Food Vendors
- DSHS: How to Submit an MFV License Application (PDF)
- Texas Department of Insurance: Auto insurance guide
- TDI: Look up an agent or agency license
- Texas DMV: Register your vehicle