Trucking Division
Motor Carrier (MC) Authority Setup
Motor Carrier (MC) Authority is the operating authority required for companies that transport regulated goods or passengers for hire in interstate commerce.
What It Is
MC Authority (also called Operating Authority) permits a for-hire carrier to transport property or passengers across state lines for compensation.
The correct authority type — Common, Contract, or Broker — depends on how the business generates revenue and who it contracts with.
FMCSA opens a mandatory 21-day protest period after filing before the authority becomes active, followed by BOC-3 and insurance verification.
Who Needs It
- • For-hire motor carriers transporting freight owned by others
- • Freight brokers arranging transportation for a fee
- • Household goods carriers requiring additional HHG authority
- • Existing carriers adding a second operating authority type
Requirements Checklist
- Active USDOT number
- Entity type determination (Common, Contract, Broker)
- Proof of insurance meeting FMCSA minimums (BMC-91/91X or BMC-84)
- BOC-3 process agent designation
- Applicable filing fee per authority type
Timeline
Authority typically becomes active 4–6 weeks after filing, accounting for the 21-day protest period and insurance verification.
Related Filings
Request MC Authority
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