San Jose Food Truck License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. We found no California state trade license for this work; see the items to verify below. You still need the local license below.
2. Secretary of State and Franchise Tax Board filings
   LLCs and corporations file a Statement of Information ($20 or $25) and most businesses pay at least $800 a year in Franchise Tax. A business name other than your own is filed with your county.
   ⏰ Statement of Information: frequency depends on entity type (verify). Franchise tax: yearly
   Source: California Secretary of State: Business entities FAQs

Local (San Jose / Santa Clara County)

1. City of San José Business Tax Certificate
   Anyone doing business in San José, including independent workers and property rentals, must register within 90 days of starting. Have your contractor's number and county health permit number ready if they apply.
   ⏰ Register within 90 days; renew yearly (verify your due date on your invoice)
   Source: City of San José: Register for a business tax certificate