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Operating Authority (MC, MX, FF)
What's Included
- OP-1 Application Filing: We file your operating authority application with the FMCSA.
- Authority Type Selection: We help you choose the right authority type for your operation.
- Error-Free Filing: We make sure your application matches your DOT number and won't get rejected.
Types of Operating Authority
- MC Number (Motor Carrier): For trucking companies hauling freight for hire.
- MC Number (Broker): For freight brokers arranging transportation for shippers.
- FF Number (Freight Forwarder): For companies assembling and consolidating shipments.
- MX Number: For Mexican carriers operating in the United States.
Who Needs Operating Authority?
You need an MC number or FF number if you're operating for hire in interstate commerce. This includes trucking companies hauling other people's freight, freight brokers arranging loads between shippers and carriers, and freight forwarders consolidating shipments.
You do not need operating authority if you're only hauling your own goods (private carrier) or operating within one state (intrastate only). In that case a USDOT number may be all you need.
What Happens After I Order?
We confirm your operation type, pick the right authority with you, and file your OP-1 with the FMCSA. If you don't have a USDOT number yet, we file both together, which means collecting your business verification documents (Articles of Organization or Incorporation plus your EIN confirmation letter, names matching) and completing the FMCSA's electronic identity verification. New DOT applications typically go into manual review, which can take a few days up to a few weeks.
Once your authority is generated, the FMCSA's 21-day waiting period starts. During that window your insurance must be filed and a BOC-3 attached before the authority activates. We walk you through both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for operating authority without a DOT number?+
No. You need a USDOT number first. We can file both together if you don't have one yet.
What's the 21-day waiting period?+
After your MC number or FF number is generated, the FMCSA requires a 21-day waiting period before it can be activated. During this time, you need to get insurance on file and a BOC-3 attached.
What's the difference between an MC number for carriers and brokers?+
Both are MC numbers, but they're different authority types. Carrier authority lets you haul freight. Broker authority lets you arrange freight for shippers without owning trucks. Some companies hold both.
What if my authority application was dismissed?+
If you applied before and it was dismissed for not filing insurance or BOC-3 in time, you need to reapply. Select the reapply option when ordering and we take it from there.
What insurance or bond do I need?+
Most for-hire carriers need $750,000 in commercial bodily injury & property damage (BIPD) on file. Brokers and freight forwarders arranging freight need a $75,000 surety bond or trust instead. We'll connect you with our insurance partner for quotes.
Is the $300 FMCSA fee included?+
The price on this page covers our filing service; the FMCSA's $300 fee per authority is paid separately. If you'd rather have one price for everything, the DOT Number & Authority Package includes the FMCSA fee.
What do I need after my authority activates?+
Interstate authority comes with an annual UCR registration, and most brokers and load boards will ask for proof your authority is active, which is where the Certificate of Authority comes in. Depending on your vehicles you may also need driver files, drug testing, IFTA, and IRP.
How long does the whole process take?+
If you already have a DOT number, your authority generates quickly after filing and then runs through the 21-day waiting period. If we're filing your DOT number too, add the FMCSA's manual review first, which can take a few days up to a few weeks. We keep you posted at every step.
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Questions before you order? Call (208) 278-6722 Text (208) 398-0635 info@tiproservices.com