Quick Answer
Dhabas are the backbone of Indian highway food culture serving millions of travellers daily. From small roadside dhabas to premium highway dining establishments, all dhabas serving commercial food must have FSSAI License to operate legally and safely.
Who Needs FSSAI License for Dhaba?
- Highway dhabas and roadside eateries
- Dhaba chains on national highways
- Village dhabas with commercial operations
- Dhaba-cum-petrol pump food counters
💡 The 14-digit FSSAI License number must be displayed at your premises and printed on all packaging, bills, and menus.
Which License Type Do You Need?
| Annual Turnover | License Type | Issued By |
|---|
| Below ₹12 Lakh | Basic FSSAI Registration | State Food Authority |
| ₹12 Lakh – ₹20 Crore | State FSSAI License | State Food Authority |
| Above ₹20 Crore | Central FSSAI License | FSSAI Central Office |
⚠️ If your business operates across multiple states, a Central FSSAI License is required regardless of turnover.
Documents Required
- PAN & Aadhaar
- Dhaba premises proof
- Complete menu listing
- FSMS plan
- Water source and quality test report
- NOC from local panchayat or municipality
- Kitchen and dining area layout
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine License Type — Based on annual turnover decide Basic, State, or Central License.
- Register on FoSCoS Portal — Visit foscos.fssai.gov.in and create an applicant account.
- Fill Application Form — Complete Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central) with your details.
- Upload Documents — Attach all required documents in prescribed formats.
- Pay Government Fee — Pay online via UPI, net banking, or debit/credit card.
- Await Inspection — An FSSAI officer may inspect your premises within 30 days.
- Receive License — Download your FSSAI License certificate from the FoSCoS portal.
Fees & Timeline
| License Type | Government Fee | Processing Time |
|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100/year | 7–10 working days |
| State License | ₹2,000–₹5,000/year | 15–30 working days |
| Central License | ₹7,500/year | 30–60 working days |
FSSAI Licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years. Renewal must be done at least 30 days before expiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do rural or village dhabas also need FSSAI?
Yes. Every commercial food establishment including rural dhabas requires FSSAI License. Basic Registration suffices for very small dhabas below ₹12 lakh turnover.
What hygiene standards does FSSAI require for dhabas?
Clean cooking area, potable water, proper waste disposal, pest control, separate utensil washing area, food stored off the ground, and personal hygiene for food handlers.
Does a dhaba at a petrol pump need FSSAI?
Yes. The food service component of a dhaba on petrol pump premises requires FSSAI License, separate from the petrol pump permit.
Can a dhaba be penalised for using adulterated milk or oil?
Yes. FSSAI officers conduct surprise raids on highway dhabas checking for adulterated ghee, oil, and milk. Penalties include fines, license cancellation, and criminal prosecution.
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