MC Number
Motor Carrier Number
An operating authority number issued by the FMCSA that grants carriers the legal right to transport passengers or regulated commodities for compensation across state lines.
An MC Number (Motor Carrier Number) is a type of operating authority issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It authorizes a carrier to transport regulated commodities or passengers for compensation in interstate commerce. The MC number is sometimes referred to as your "authority" and is separate from your USDOT number.
Not every commercial carrier needs an MC number. It is specifically required for for-hire carriers transporting federally regulated commodities or passengers across state lines. Private carriers that only transport their own goods typically need a USDOT number but not an MC number. There are several types of MC authority, including Motor Carrier of Property, Motor Carrier of Passengers, Freight Broker, and Freight Forwarder.
After you apply for an MC number, there is a mandatory 18 to 21-day waiting period during which the application is published in the FMCSA Register. During this time, existing carriers or the public can file protests against your application. Once the waiting period ends and you have filed proof of insurance and a BOC-3 process agent designation, your authority becomes active.
Operating without proper MC authority when it is required can result in significant penalties, including fines of up to $16,000 per violation. Your MC authority can also be revoked if you fail to maintain the required insurance coverage or if you fail to comply with FMCSA safety regulations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an MC number?
After your application is submitted, there is a mandatory 18 to 21-day waiting period required by the FMCSA. After this period, once your insurance is filed and BOC-3 is on record, your authority becomes active.
Do I need an MC number if I only haul my own goods?
Generally no. If you are a private carrier transporting only your own goods and not operating for hire, you typically need only a USDOT number. An MC number is required for for-hire carriers transporting regulated commodities or passengers in interstate commerce.
What is the difference between an MC number and operating authority?
An MC number is one type of operating authority. Operating authority is the broader term that includes MC numbers for motor carriers, as well as FF numbers for freight forwarders. The MC number specifically identifies your authority type and grants you the right to operate for hire.
Related Terms
USDOT Number
United States Department of Transportation Number
A unique identifier assigned by the FMCSA to commercial motor carriers operating in interstate commerce, used to track safety information and compliance.
Operating Authority
The legal permission granted by the FMCSA that allows a carrier, broker, or freight forwarder to conduct for-hire transportation operations in interstate commerce.
BOC-3
Blanket of Coverage - Form 3
A federal form that designates process agents in every state to accept legal documents on behalf of a motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder operating in interstate commerce.
FMCSA
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The federal agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for regulating the trucking and bus industries, with a focus on reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities.