Required Licenses Checklist to Open a Food Truck in Florida

Opening a food truck in Florida can be a rewarding business venture, but it requires careful preparation and compliance with state and local regulations. From business licenses to health permits, the legal requirements are essential for ensuring your food truck operates safely and legally. Below is a comprehensive checklist of the required licenses and permits to get your food truck rolling in the Sunshine State.

1. Business License

To legally operate a food truck in Florida, you’ll first need a general business license (also known as a business tax receipt). This license is required by both the state and the local municipality where you plan to operate. It confirms that your business is recognized by the government and meets the necessary local regulations.

Where to get it: City or county clerk’s office.
Cost: Varies by location, typically between $50 and $150 annually.

2. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

If your food truck business has employees or you plan to hire staff, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This federal tax ID number is used to report your business taxes.

Where to get it: Apply online at the IRS website.
Cost: Free.

3. Florida Sales Tax Permit

If you sell food or beverages, you are required to collect sales tax in Florida. To do this, you’ll need to apply for a Florida Sales Tax Permit from the Florida Department of Revenue. This permit allows you to collect and remit sales tax on your food truck sales.

Where to get it: Apply online via the Florida Department of Revenue website.
Cost: Free, but you are responsible for remitting collected sales tax regularly.

4. Food Service License

One of the most important licenses for any food truck in Florida is the food service license, issued by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Division of Hotels and Restaurants. This license ensures your food truck complies with health and safety regulations regarding food preparation and service.

Where to get it: Apply through the Florida DBPR website.
Cost: Varies based on the type and size of the business, typically between $250 and $500 annually.
Inspection required: Yes, your food truck will need to pass a health inspection before you can begin operating.

5. Mobile Food Establishment Permit

In addition to your food service license, Florida requires mobile food vendors to obtain a Mobile Food Establishment Permit. This permit confirms that your food truck meets the state’s health and safety standards for mobile food operations.

Where to get it: Local health department or DBPR, depending on the county.
Cost: Varies by county, typically $100 to $300.

6. Commissary Agreement

Florida law requires food trucks to have a commissary agreement. A commissary is a licensed commercial kitchen where you can prepare and store food, clean utensils, and perform other necessary tasks that cannot be done in the food truck. You’ll need to provide proof of this agreement to obtain your food service license.

Where to get it: Commissaries are typically rented from licensed commercial kitchens.
Cost: Commissary rental fees vary, generally ranging from $500 to $2,000 per month, depending on location and services offered.

7. Fire Department Permit

Because food trucks use cooking equipment that can pose a fire risk, you’ll need to obtain a fire safety permit from your local fire department. Your truck will be inspected for proper ventilation, safe use of propane and other fuel sources, and the presence of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.

Where to get it: Local fire department.
Cost: Typically $50 to $200, depending on location and inspection requirements.

8. Commercial Vehicle Registration

Your food truck is considered a commercial vehicle, so it must be properly registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This registration is necessary to legally operate your vehicle on public roads.

Where to get it: Local FLHSMV office.
Cost: Varies depending on the weight and size of your vehicle, usually between $50 and $300 annually.

9. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – If Required

Depending on the size and weight of your food truck, you may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate it legally. Typically, a CDL is required if your truck exceeds a certain weight (over 26,001 pounds).

Where to get it: Local FLHSMV office.
Cost: Application fees typically range from $75 to $125, with additional costs for training and exams.

10. Zoning and Parking Permits

Operating a food truck requires compliance with local zoning laws, which dictate where you can legally park and serve food. Some cities or counties may require specific permits for parking in designated areas or for operating during certain hours. You may also need to obtain special permits for operating at events or festivals.

Where to get it: Local city or county planning/zoning office.
Cost: Varies by location, usually ranging from $50 to $500.

11. Event or Special Location Permits

If you plan to operate your food truck at special events, festivals, or temporary locations, you may need to obtain additional permits. Event organizers or local authorities typically issue these permits and may include health department inspections.

Where to get it: Event organizers or local government offices.
Cost: Varies based on the event or location.

12. Liability Insurance

Though not technically a permit, liability insurance is essential for any food truck business. It protects you from potential lawsuits arising from accidents, injuries, or foodborne illnesses. Most cities and event organizers require proof of insurance before allowing you to operate.

Where to get it: Commercial insurance providers.
Cost: Typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 annually, depending on coverage and risk factors.

Opening a food truck in Florida requires obtaining several licenses and permits to ensure compliance with state and local regulations. From business and health permits to zoning and fire safety approvals, each step is critical to legally operating your food truck and serving your customers safely.

By following this checklist and working with local authorities, you can navigate the licensing process smoothly and set your food truck business up for success.