Essential Licenses for Food Businesses in Pennsylvania
A Food Handlers License, also known as a Pennsylvania Food Handler Card, ensures that all employees are certified in food preparation and handling procedures that prevent foodborne illness. A Food Facility Health Permit ensures that the restaurant space is set up with the equipment and processes that keep patrons and employees safe. Finally, a Seller’s Permit gets a restaurant registered to collect sales tax on their food and drinks.
Do you need a license to sell prepackaged food in PA? A facility is exempt from having to obtain a Retail Food Facility License if it offers only prepackaged, shelf-stable (non-TCS) foods or beverages (e.g., canned soda, packaged chips, candy) or if food or beverages are sold only through a vending machine.
Licensing for Mobile Food Facilities
Either a Permanent or Temporary Retail Food License is required for MFF Type 2, 3, and 4 facilities. A MFF Type 1 is exempt from the license fee but must still fill out an application and be inspected.
Registration and Taxes
How much is a vendor’s license in PA?
- In order to sell prepared food, obtain a sellers permit tax ID Number and a business license.
- Register for a sales tax license through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
- Obtain a Seller’s permit to buy tax-free and collect taxes when selling retail to the state of PA.
- Acquire both a state EIN and a Federal EIN for employment taxes.
Cottage Food Operations and Special Rules
Some states impose annual sales limits, but cottage food producers in Pennsylvania can sell as much as they want. To sell food from home in PA, complete the "PA Application for a Limited Food Establishment" detailing the number of employees, working hours, tax documentation, and food product labels. Retail Food Facility Licenses are required PRIOR to operating any Retail Food Facility.
Philly has unique rules for selling food in the city’s special vending districts. There are also specific licenses for selling food from home, especially for perishable products such as dairy and eggs. The PA Dept of Agriculture supports a sustainable and safe supply of food and agricultural products and oversees food sales from home.
General Business Licensing in Pennsylvania
There is no general business license for all businesses in PA. Licenses or permits from various levels of government may be needed depending on the type of business. To learn about specific licenses, visit the PA Business One-Stop Shop website.
Food License Costs and Operations
How much does a food license cost in PA?
- License costs can vary, ranging from around $50 for registration to $100-$1000 for the license itself, depending on the establishment.
- Seller’s permit applications are free, but other business registration fees may apply.
- Foodservice license fees are often based on the classification, size of the restaurant, and location.
- An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for operating in the U.S.
Liquor Licenses in Pennsylvania
Restaurant (R) Liquor License
- R Liquor Licenses allow for the sale of alcohol along with food service.
- There are limited ways to obtain a liquor license, including new issue, person-to-person transfer, place-to-place transfer, or a double transfer.
- R licenses permit the sale and service of beer and liquor for on-premise consumption.