Motor Carrier Operating Authority Requirements -

Under federal law 49 CFR Part 390, any motor carrier operator engaging in interstate for-hire operations is mandated to submit an FMCSA application. This application grants authorization for interstate travel, which must be obtained before any company driver can legally cross state lines for business purposes. It is essential to note that the Motor Carrier application needs to be renewed biennially to ensure compliance with regulations.

Obtaining Motor Carrier Operating Authority?

At DOT Registrations, we provide comprehensive coverage for your Motor Carrier Number to ensure compliance when crossing state lines. This includes assigning a BOC-3 legal processing agent to handle any legal matters outside your home state. To activate your MC number, ensure UCR and BOC-3 are attached, undergo a 21-day vetting period, and have commercial insurance in place. Once approved, you can operate within your home state using your USDOT#, and upon completion of vetting, you can begin interstate operations. Trust us to streamline your DOT registration process efficiently.

Motor Carrier - Operating Authority

Per federal law 49CFR Part 390, an FMCSA application is required for entities falling under the categories of:

  • For-hire carriers for compensation

  • Broker of household goods

  • Property broker

  • Transporters of passengers in interstate commerce or those who arrange their transportation

  • United States-based enterprise carrier of international cargo and international household goods

  • Motor carrier of household goods with transportation paid by the householder

  • Transporters of federally regulated commodities in interstate commerce (excluding household goods) or those who arrange said transportation

  • Private carriers

  • Carriers that operate within a designated federal commercial zone

  • For-hire carriers that haul exempt commodities.

The Operating Authority application grants permission for interstate travel, a prerequisite for drivers to legally conduct business across state lines. It dictates the permissible operation types, authorized cargo, and requisite insurance levels. Proof of public liability coverage must be submitted. Certain operations may necessitate multiple Operating Authorities. Exempt carriers include those operating within federal commercial zones, for-hire carriers transporting exempt commodities, and private carriers.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to one of our compliance experts today for guidance on DOT and FMCSA laws and regulations, ensuring your adherence to the regulations.