Consultran provides complete DOT authority services for new and existing motor carriers. Whether you're starting a trucking company or need to maintain your operating authority, we guide you through every step.
DOT authority refers to the registration and operating authority required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. This includes obtaining a USDOT number and, if applicable, MC (Motor Carrier) authority.
USDOT Number: A unique identifier assigned by FMCSA to companies operating commercial motor vehicles. Required if you transport passengers or haul cargo in interstate commerce and meet size/weight thresholds.
MC Number: Motor Carrier operating authority that authorizes for-hire carriers to transport regulated commodities. If you haul freight for others (for compensation), you need an MC number in addition to your DOT number.
Private carriers (hauling their own goods) only need a DOT number. For-hire carriers need both DOT and MC numbers.
You need FMCSA registration if you operate vehicles in interstate commerce that:
- Have a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 10,001+ pounds
- Transport hazardous materials requiring placarding
- Transport 9-15 passengers (including driver) for compensation
- Transport 16+ passengers (including driver)
1. Business Formation: Establish your legal business entity (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
2. Obtain EIN: Get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS
3. Complete FMCSA Forms: File Form MCS-150 for DOT number and OP-1 for MC authority
4. BOC-3 Filing: Designate process agents in all states
5. Insurance: Obtain required liability coverage (minimum $750,000 for general freight)
6. UCR Registration: Register for Unified Carrier Registration
7. Wait Period: 18-20 day protest period before authority becomes active
Consultran manages the entire process, ensuring all steps are completed correctly.
- FMCSA filing fee: $300
- BOC-3 process agent: $50-150
- UCR registration: $46-44,836 (based on fleet size)
- Insurance: Varies by coverage and operation
The FMCSA typically processes applications in 10-15 business days. After approval, there's an 18-20 day protest period before your authority becomes active. Total timeline: 4-6 weeks from application to active authority.
All carriers with operating authority must file a BOC-3 designating process agents in every state. These agents accept legal documents on your behalf. Consultran coordinates BOC-3 filing with reputable process agent services.
FMCSA requires specific minimum insurance coverage:
- General freight: $750,000
- Household goods: $300,000 per vehicle
- Passengers (16+ people): $5 million
- Hazardous materials: Up to $5 million depending on quantity
Insurance companies must file Form BMC-91 with FMCSA. Consultran works with insurance providers to ensure proper filing.
All motor carriers must update their MCS-150 information every two years. Failure to update results in deactivation of your DOT number. Consultran tracks your update deadlines and handles biennial filings.
Some states require additional intrastate operating authority:
- Wisconsin LC Number
- Texas Motor Carrier Number
- California MC Number
Consultran can obtain state-specific authority for your operations.
Call: (651) 482-1124
Email: consultran@consultran.com
Visit: 2353 Rice Street, Suite 232, Roseville, MN 55113
Visit our Contact page to send us a message.
New motor carriers trust Consultran to help them navigate the DOT authority process. Read client testimonials from carriers we've helped get started.
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