$800 million. That’s how much the food truck industry is worth right now, and it’s expected to grow another 20% in 2019. Do you want a piece of that pie?

Whether you’re a brick and mortar store looking to go mobile or you’re just getting into the food biz, here are a few things you need to know about getting a food truck license.

Types of Food Truck Licenses and Permits

Unfortunately, there isn’t one license or permit that you can acquire and be on the road with. There is a lot that goes into making mobile businesses legal.

Licenses and Registration

When it comes to serving food, there are a lot of legalities involved. Businesses require licenses, and even though food trucks are mobile and typically more laid back, they’re still a business. 

You’ll first need a business license. The cost of attaining your business license varies from county to county.

In addition to your business license, you’ll need to make your vehicle legal by registering and licensing it. Again, the cost varies depending on where you’re registering. Your vehicle registration will be commercial instead of private use since this won’t be your everyday ride.

Get the Right Permits

There are a lot of permits that go into getting your food truck on the road. A lot of tips out there can also help to make it a little bit easier, but in order to really learn what needs to be done, you have to dive on in.

There are a few different permits you will need to get things going. You will need a seller’s permit, a food handling permit, and a health department permit. 

In addition, don’t overlook the need for insurance. Not only will you need insurance for the actual vehicle, but you’ll need insurance for liability and any employees (worker’s compensation). 

Typically, your local health department can assist in giving you the information you need for your specific location.

Check for Local Laws and Restrictions

You may be required to go through more permitting and licensing in one city than in the next. Be sure to research your laws and restrictions based on what city you live in.

While some cities just require licensure and permits, other cities are more stringent when it comes to food trucks. That said, your city may also have restrictions on where you can park your truck and when. Make sure you know all the laws in your city to avoid financial penalties or loss of license or permits.

Before you’re able to get started, a health inspector will visit and check things out to make sure everything is above board, healthy, and in good working order. 

Get on the Road

Unfortunately, there is no one food truck license that you can pay for and get started on your dream of being a food truck owner. A lot goes into cultivating a business that’s going to last.

One thing that’s for sure is that you will need the best of the best when it comes to your food truck.

Want more food truck advice? Check out more blog posts here!

Thinking about starting a food truck? Request a free custom quote and one of our food truck specialists will help you design the truck of your dreams.

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Food trucks are game-changers, the food is typically pretty darn good and they are becoming rather popular, which is a great thing for those people who love to eat (so basically everyone) and also for those people who are interested in starting their own food truck business.

For those people who are interested in starting up their own food truck, here are five truths that you might want to know.

5. It Costs More Money Than Some Might Think

You might not want to start up your own restaurant because it basically will cost a fortune. Therefore, you turn to the food truck department … which is still pretty pricey.

Just like with anything, the price completely depends on where you buy the truck, and what you all need so you can run shop.

Don’t let that initial price scare you away, though. If your business is thriving, the money will come flying in.

4. Weather Is Either Going To Be Your Best Or Worst Friend

Rainy days can be brutal for business. Sunshine, on the other hand, never gets old.

Rain or shine doesn’t really flow with the customers.

3. You Are The Boss

Everyone dreams about being their own boss. Well, if you start up a food truck business, guess what you will become? Your own boss!

However, being your own boss can still be pretty stressful since you literally have to worry about everything.

2. Vacation Time Is Likely Going To Be A Thing Of The Past

If you are all about that vacation life, this might scare you away: The food truck game requires a lot of your time. Therefore, you are going to be constantly working. As a result of you constantly working, you won’t be able to go on vacations.

10-14 hours (perhaps more) of work every single day is pretty brutal, and you likely won’t be able to escape reality by taking a vacation for quite some time.

1. You Are Going To Make A Lot Of People Happy

Food makes people happy, especially when the food tastes amazing. Of course, your food is going to make people flock to your food truck. Putting both of those things together, you are going to make a lot of people happy, and that’s what it’s all about, right?

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