Operating Authority
What is operating authority (MC number)?
Operating authority, usually called an MC number, is FMCSA permission to run as a for-hire carrier, freight broker or freight forwarder in interstate commerce.
If you're paid to move goods or passengers across state lines, or you arrange transportation for others, you need an MC number in addition to your USDOT number.
What happens without operating authority
You need operating authority if you
- Haul goods or passengers for pay across state lines
- Arrange transportation for others as a broker
- Operate as a freight forwarder
- Move federally regulated commodities
You may not need it if you
- Only operate inside one state
- Haul only your own goods (private carrier)
- Only transport exempt commodities
- Operate only within a federally exempt zone
Hauling hazardous materials across state lines? You still need operating authority even in some cases that are otherwise exempt.
Types of operating authority
Motor Carrier (MC number)
For hauling goods or passengers for pay
Broker Authority
For arranging transportation for others
Freight Forwarder (FF number)
For consolidating shipments and taking responsibility for them
Household Goods Broker
For arranging residential moves for customers
Frequently asked
Operating authority FAQ
The USDOT number identifies your company for safety tracking. The MC number is separate permission to operate for-hire across state lines, or to broker or forward freight. Many companies need both.
FMCSA publishes new applications for a protest period, then issues the authority once insurance and a BOC-3 are on file. It typically takes about three to four weeks altogether.
Carriers need liability insurance filed by their insurer (usually $750,000 or more for general freight, higher for hazmat and passengers). Brokers and freight forwarders need a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund.
Yes. FMCSA won't activate any operating authority until a BOC-3 process agent filing is on record. You can add one to your order for $85.00.
No. You can only operate for-hire across state lines once your authority shows as active in FMCSA's records.
Applying for an MC number
Before it activates you'll also need:
- A BOC-3 process agent filing
- Insurance on file with FMCSA
- A surety bond (brokers and forwarders)
Missing any of these can get the application dismissed.