FMCSA
Operating Authority
The FMCSA Operating Authority is a legal authorization issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that allows a trucking company or motor carrier to transport goods or passengers across state lines — required in addition to your USDOT number.
Without it, you cannot legally operate as a for-hire carrier, work with brokers, or haul regulated commodities in interstate commerce.
Choose the authority that fits your operation
Motor Carrier of Property
For businesses transporting general freight, dry goods, perishables, or raw materials across state lines.
Motor Carrier of Household Goods
For moving companies transporting personal property and household items during relocations.
Broker of Property
For companies acting as intermediaries connecting shippers with carriers without handling freight directly.
Broker of Household Goods
For entities facilitating household moves but not directly providing transportation services.
International Cargo Carrier
For carriers transporting freight between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico under cross-border agreements.
Freight Forwarder
For companies consolidating shipments, managing logistics, and arranging transportation end-to-end.
You need operating authority if you
Operate as a for-hire carrier — transporting goods or passengers for payment
Transport regulated commodities that require specific federal oversight
Operate as a freight broker, freight forwarder, or leasing company
Failure to obtain operating authority can result in fines, suspension of operations, or legal penalties.
What you need to get authorized
Choose the plan that fits your needs
- US DOT Number registration
- MC Number (Motor Carrier)
- BOC-3 Process Agent filing
- FMCSA-compliant submission
- No hidden fees
- Everything in Basic
- Certificate of Authority included
- Issued 3 days prior to being Authorized
- Priority processing
- Direct support access
