How to Get a Motor Carrier Number for Your Trucking Business

Starting a trucking company in the United States involves several legal and regulatory steps, one of which is obtaining a Motor Carrier (MC) number. Issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), this number is a key requirement for businesses operating commercial vehicles transporting goods or passengers across state lines. This guide provides a step-by-step process to obtain your MC number and ensure full compliance.

Understanding the Motor Carrier Number

The Motor Carrier number, also known as operating authority, is distinct from a USDOT number. While the USDOT number tracks your company's safety records and compliance, the MC number grants legal authority to operate as a for-hire carrier across state lines. You need an MC number if your trucking business:

• Transports passengers in interstate commerce.
• Transports federally regulated commodities owned by others for a fee (for hire).
• Engages in interstate commerce.

If your operations are strictly intrastate and do not involve federally regulated commodities, you may not need an MC number. However, state laws vary, so verify with your state’s department of transportation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your MC Number

1. Determine the Type of Authority You Need

Before applying, identify the type of operating authority your business requires. The FMCSA offers several types, including:

• Motor Carrier of Property (except Household Goods)
• Motor Carrier of Household Goods
• Broker of Property (except Household Goods)
• Broker of Household Goods
• Motor Carrier of Passengers

Each authority type has specific requirements, fees, and responsibilities. Choosing the correct type is crucial to avoid complications.

2. Register for a USDOT Number

A USDOT number is a prerequisite for an MC number, used to monitor safety practices, inspections, and audits. To register:

• Visit the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) website.
• Click the "Register" link and create an account.
• Complete the MCS-150 form with your company’s details, including vehicle count, cargo types, and operations.
• Submit the application (no fee required).

Your USDOT number is typically issued instantly online upon approval.

3. Apply for Your Motor Carrier Number

After obtaining your USDOT number, apply for your MC number through the URS:

• Log in to your URS account.
• Select the appropriate operating authority.
• Complete the application with accurate business and operational details.
• Pay the $300 non-refundable application fee per authority type.

Accuracy is critical to avoid delays or denial of your application.

4. Submit Proof of Insurance

Your insurance provider must file proof of insurance with the FMCSA to activate your MC authority. Required forms include:

• Form BMC-91 or BMC-91X: For general liability and cargo insurance ($750,000 minimum for general freight, $1 million for hazardous materials).
• Form BMC-34 or BMC-84: For surety bonds ($75,000 for brokers).

Ensure your coverage meets FMCSA requirements, and your provider files these forms electronically.

5. File the BOC-3 Form

The BOC-3 form (Designation of Process Agents) designates a process agent in each state of operation to receive legal documents. To file:

• Hire a process agent or use a third-party filing service (fees typically $50–$200 annually).
• The agent files the form electronically with the FMCSA.

Only one BOC-3 form is needed, covering all states of operation.

6. Wait for Application Processing

After submission, the FMCSA posts your application for a 10-business-day public notice period, during which:

• The public can file protests (rare but possible).
• The FMCSA reviews your documentation for accuracy.

If no issues arise, your MC number becomes active, and you receive a confirmation letter. The process may take 4–6 weeks, including a 21-day protest period for new entrants.

7. Check Your Status and Maintain Compliance

Monitor your application status via the FMCSA’s Licensing and Insurance (L&I) system. Once active:

• Display your MC and USDOT numbers on both sides of all commercial vehicles.
• Maintain continuous insurance coverage.
• Update registration details via the MCS-150 form biennially (based on your USDOT number’s last digits).

Non-compliance can lead to authority revocation. New entrants are subject to an 18-month safety monitoring period.

Additional Registrations and Considerations

Depending on your operations, you may need:

• Unified Carrier Registration (UCR): Annual registration for interstate carriers and brokers (fees range from $59–$56,000 based on fleet size).
• International Registration Plan (IRP): For vehicles over 26,000 lbs traveling across state lines, requiring apportioned plates.
• International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA): For filing quarterly fuel tax returns for interstate operations.
• State-Specific Permits: Examples include Kentucky KYU Number, New Mexico Weight Distance Tax Permit, and New York Highway Use Tax (HUT).
• Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT): File Form 2290 annually for vehicles over 55,000 lbs (due by August 31).

Verify state-specific requirements to ensure full compliance.

Conclusion

Securing a Motor Carrier number is a critical step for legally operating a trucking business across state lines or with regulated commodities. By following these steps—determining your authority type, obtaining a USDOT number, applying for an MC number, filing insurance and BOC-3 forms, and maintaining compliance—you can establish a legally sound operation. Staying organized and leveraging tools like TruckersCall CRM can streamline compliance and operations. Book a free demo to explore how Nexterix can support your trucking business.