If you're new to cooking brisket, there are 2 ways to determine if your brisket is done. #1 -There is no perfect number to share but you want to hit between 195-200 degrees internally. The brisket needs to have been at that temperature for a minimum of 30 minutes so that the tissues begin to break down and make it more tender and delicious to eat. #3 - The fork test is put into a muscle and if it goes in without any resistance, then you know your brisket it done. You don't want it to have to be forced in at all.