How to Start a Catering Business in Texas? [In 2024]

Updated: February 22nd, 2024

How to Start a Catering Business in Texas? [In 2024]

The Catering business is one of the fastest-growing businesses. As such, if you’re planning to start one in Texas, you’re up for a rewarding journey ahead. But, of course, before venturing into this industry, you’ll have to know how to start and settle all the requirements you need in Texas.

For this reason, we made this article to guide you as you start a Catering business in Texas. Here, we’ll cover every step you need to do, along with all the required documents and licenses your state requires. After reading, you can prepare for everything and start processing all the requirements to jumpstart your new business.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

4 Main Steps to Start a Catering Business in Texas

If you’re already preparing for your Catering business in Texas, you’ll likely have to do these four main steps:

1. Understand the required training, accreditation, and license

Since you’re in Texas, you’ll need to secure a Catering business license. In addition, it would be best if you underwent specific training programs and accreditations to have the license to operate.

Now, even if your state doesn’t require a license or a training program, undergoing such can help you train and be more accustomed to the service you’re offering.

This program will teach you how to schedule your clients, bill them, and market your business. As such, it can be helpful whether or not it’s required.

2. Secure your license

Since you’re in Texas, you’ll need a License before registering and starting your business operations. As mentioned earlier, getting a license may take a while. As such, settle all the requirements and complete the required documents to avoid further delays.

3. Settle the basic business policies, structure, and procedure.

Like all other businesses, you’ll need to settle the policies, structure, and procedures of your Catering business. The Texas State Government may require you to present these things when registering your business.

You can find statements, permits, operating hours, and regulations in this category. To help you manage your Catering business needs, we recommend using management software for your Catering business.

4. Promote your Catering Business

Like all businesses, you’ll need proper marketing to help your Catering business gain exposure. Although the entire state of Texas has lots of potential clients, they won’t reach out to you unless you showcase your business.

Is Starting a Catering Business in Texas Worth It?

The Catering business is one of the fastest-growing industries, and it’s something you can achieve if you live in Texas.

While mentioning a Catering business may sound daunting, it’s not something you need to worry about since a background in it isn’t required. Likewise, while a background in the Catering business may be beneficial, it’s not something that can stop you from starting it.

Moreover, the need for more Catering businesses continuously grows in Texas, so you’ll find an audience to market your service.

With many good things to offer, the Catering business is always worth starting, especially in Texas.

Do You Need a License to Start a Catering Business in Texas?

Only four states do not require licenses to run a Catering business. Unfortunately, Texas isn’t one of them. Therefore, you must secure a license to start a Catering business in this state.

The state government of Texas requires that state officials or accredited bodies inspect licenses.

Several states, including Texas, grant provisional licenses followed by assessments. In some cases, you’ll have to receive a visit from an accreditor before you get your license.

Also, your Catering business in Texas may undergo several follow-up inspections at least once every year or two.

It is common for applications for Catering business licenses to contain specifics regarding the business structure and criminal background checks on the staff.

In most cases, the Texas State Government will ask you to provide proof of professional and liability insurance and your National Provider Identification number.

Catering Business License Requirement in Texas

If you’re starting a Catering Business in Texas, the license you need requires a particular number of hours of certification training. Also, you’ll need 12 hours of training each year to retain your license.

Of course, it will still depend on the type of service you’re offering. For example, some services require training certification, while others don’t.

Conclusion

The catering business is one of the most satisfying business ventures. And, if done right, it can offer you the success you’ll enjoy much sooner, unlike other industries.

As always, you only need to settle the necessary documents like licenses and permits and comply with any requirement the state government of Texas asks. As long as you understand and follow these things, you’ll be up and running your Catering business soon.

meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.