MC Authority (MC Number)
Your license to operate as a for-hire carrier in interstate commerce
Start Your MC ApplicationWhat is MC Authority?
MC Authority (Motor Carrier Authority), also known as an MC Number, is operating authority granted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that gives you the legal right to transport goods or passengers for compensation in interstate commerce.
Unlike a USDOT Number (which is for safety monitoring), MC Authority is your "business license" to operate as a for-hire carrier. Without it, you cannot legally charge customers for transporting their freight or passengers across state lines.
Key Difference: A USDOT Number tracks safety compliance, while MC Authority grants you permission to operate commercially for hire. Most for-hire carriers need BOTH a USDOT Number and MC Authority.
Types of Operating Authority
Choose the type of authority that matches your business operations
Motor Carrier of Property
Required if you transport freight or cargo for hire in interstate commerce. This is the most common type of authority for trucking companies.
- General freight
- Specialized commodities
- Household goods
- Refrigerated products
Motor Carrier of Passengers
Required if you transport passengers for hire in interstate commerce. Includes charter buses, shuttles, and tour operators.
- Charter bus services
- Tour operators
- Airport shuttles
- Limousine services
Property Broker
Required if you arrange transportation of freight for shippers without using your own trucks. Brokers connect shippers with carriers.
- No trucks required
- Arrange freight transport
- Connect shippers & carriers
- Requires $75,000 bond
Freight Forwarder
Required if you assemble and consolidate shipments from multiple shippers and arrange their transportation.
- Consolidate shipments
- Issue bills of lading
- Assume carrier responsibility
- Requires $75,000 bond
Do I Need MC Authority?
Determine if your operations require Motor Carrier Authority
You NEED MC Authority If:
- You transport goods for hire across state lines
- You operate as a for-hire passenger carrier
- You broker freight shipments for compensation
- You consolidate shipments as a freight forwarder
- You haul regulated commodities for hire
You May NOT Need MC If:
- You only transport your own goods (private carrier)
- You operate exclusively within one state
- You haul exempt commodities only
- You are a government or farm vehicle operator
- You only operate under lease to another carrier
MC Authority Requirements
What you need to obtain and maintain your Motor Carrier Authority
1. USDOT Number
You must have an active USDOT Number before applying for MC Authority. If you don't have one, we can help you register.
2. Insurance Filing
Proof of liability insurance must be filed with FMCSA. Requirements vary:
- • Property: $750,000 - $5,000,000
- • Passenger: $1,500,000 - $5,000,000
- • Broker Bond: $75,000
3. BOC-3 Filing
A BOC-3 form designates process agents in each state where you operate. This is required before your authority becomes active.
Important: 18-21 Day Waiting Period
After your MC Authority application is submitted, there is a mandatory 18-21 day waiting period before your authority becomes active. During this time, you must obtain insurance and file your BOC-3. We'll guide you through every step of this process.
Operating Without Authority
Serious consequences await those who operate without proper MC Authority
Massive Fines
Up to $25,000 per violation for operating without authority
Vehicle Seizure
Cargo and vehicles can be impounded until compliance is verified
Criminal Charges
Repeated violations can result in criminal prosecution
No Insurance Coverage
Claims may be denied if operating without proper authority
Ready to Get Your MC Authority?
Start your application today and get your Motor Carrier Authority. We'll guide you through every step of the process.