MC Number: What It Is, Who Needs It, and How to Get One

If you’re starting a trucking business or transportation business, you may need an MC number in addition to a USDOT number to operate legally. The Motor Carrier (MC) number, also known as Operating Authority, is required for businesses that transport goods or passengers across state lines (interstate commerce) for compensation.

At Focused Compliance Group, we help businesses navigate the regulatory process, including obtaining MC numbers and operating authority. In this guide, we’ll explain what an MC number is, who needs one, and how to apply for it.

What Is an MC Number?

An MC number is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and grants a trucking or transportation company the authority to operate as a for-hire carrier. This is different from a USDOT number, which is used for tracking safety compliance.

While a USDOT number is required for most commercial vehicles, an MC number is required for specific operations, particularly those involving:

• For-hire trucking (getting paid to transport cargo that isn’t your own).

• Interstate commerce (crossing state lines).

• Transporting passengers for compensation.

• Hauling regulated commodities (certain goods that require FMCSA oversight).

Who Needs an MC Number for Interstate Commerce?

Not every trucking company or transportation company needs an MC number. You must obtain an MC number if you:

✔ Operate as a for-hire carrier (meaning you transport goods or passengers for payment).

✔ Engage in interstate commerce (cross state lines to deliver goods or services).

✔ Transport regulated commodities (goods that require FMCSA regulation, such as hazardous materials).

✔ Transport passengers for compensation (bus and limo services, shuttles, etc.).

Who Does NOT Need an MC Number?

You do not need an MC number if you:

❌ Operate as private carriers (hauling your own company’s goods).

❌ Engage only in intrastate commerce (operate within one state and don’t cross state lines).

❌ Transport only exempt commodities (such as certain agricultural products).

Types of Motor Carrier Authority

Motor carrier authority is a critical component of the trucking industry, and there are several types of authority that carriers can obtain. The type of authority required depends on the specific operations of the carrier, including the type of cargo being transported, the location of the cargo, and the type of vehicle being used.

• Motor Carrier of Property (Except Household Goods): This type of authority is required for for-hire motor carriers that transport regulated commodities, excluding household goods. Carriers with this authority must obtain an MC number and provide proof of insurance for bodily injury and property damage.

• Motor Carrier of Household Goods: This type of authority is required for moving companies that transport exclusively household goods. In addition to the MC number, carriers with this authority must provide proof of public liability and cargo insurance.

• Motor Passenger Carrier Authority: This type of authority is required for carriers that transport passengers across state lines. Carriers with this authority must obtain a specialized MC number and provide proof of insurance for bodily injury and property damage.

• Mexico-Based Carrier: This type of authority is required for motor carriers that operate across the U.S.-Mexican border. Instead of an MC number, these carriers are issued an MX number, which allows them to navigate the complex regulations associated with cross-border operations.

MC Number vs DOT Number: Understanding the Differences

A USDOT number and an MC number are both critical identifiers for motor carriers, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the difference between the two is essential for ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

• USDOT Number: A USDOT number is a unique identifier assigned to commercial motor carriers by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is required for all commercial motor vehicles that transport goods or passengers and weigh over a certain limit or carry specific amounts of paying passengers.

• MC Number: An MC number, also known as a Motor Carrier number, is a unique identifier assigned by the FMCSA to commercial motor vehicles that transport interstate cargo both inside their state and crossing over state lines. An MC number is necessary for commercial motor carriers to operate legally and ensures compliance with federal regulations.

How to Get an MC Number: Step-by-Step Guide

Obtaining the correct interstate operating authority is crucial for ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Step 1: Determine Your Operating Authority Needs

FMCSA offers different types of operating authority based on what you transport. Common MC number designations include:

• Motor Carrier of Property (except Household Goods) – For businesses transporting general freight.

• Motor Carrier of Household Goods – For moving companies transporting household items.

• Broker Authority – For companies that arrange transportation without physically hauling freight.

• Freight Forwarder Authority – For businesses that manage shipments on behalf of clients.

• Passenger Carrier Authority – For transportation services carrying passengers for hire.

Each type of authority has different regulatory requirements, so it’s important to apply for the right one.

Step 2: Apply for an MC Number Through the Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

To apply for an MC number, follow these steps:

1️⃣ Visit the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS):

• Go to https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration.

• Click on “New Applicant” and follow the prompts.

• Create an account with Login.gov (if you don’t already have one).

2️⃣ Complete the Application:

• Fill out the necessary information, including your company’s details, type of authority, and business operations.

3️⃣ Pay the Application Fee:

• The fee for an MC number is $300 per type of operating authority (non-refundable).

• If applying for multiple authorities (e.g., carrier and broker authority), you must pay separately for each one.

4️⃣ Wait for Processing:

• FMCSA usually takes 20-25 business days to process MC number applications.

• If applying as a household goods carrier, it may take longer due to additional requirements.

Step 3: File a BOC-3 (Process Agent Filing)

Once you receive your MC number, you must designate a process agent in each state where you operate.

• A BOC-3 form is required to designate these process agents.

• A process agent is a representative who can receive legal documents on your behalf.

• Focused Compliance Group can assist with filing your BOC-3 for you!

Step 4: Obtain Insurance Coverage

Before your MC number becomes active, carriers operating must submit proof of insurance to FMCSA. Requirements vary based on the type of operation:

✔ Freight carriers: Minimum $750,000 to $5 million in liability insurance.

✔ Passenger carriers: Minimum of $1.5 million to $5 million (depending on passenger capacity).

✔ Freight brokers & forwarders: Must carry a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund.

Your insurance provider must submit these forms electronically to FMCSA:

• Form BMC-91 or BMC-91X (proof of liability insurance).

• Form BMC-34 (if required for cargo insurance).

Step 5: Wait for MC Number Activation

After submitting your insurance and BOC-3, your MC number will go through a 21-day vetting period before activation. Once approved, FMCSA will issue your active operating authority, and you can legally begin operations.

MC Number Costs and Fees

Obtaining an MC number requires a fee, which varies depending on the type of authority requested. In addition to the fee, carriers may also incur indirect costs associated with obtaining an MC number.

• MC Number Fee: The FMCSA charges a $300 fee for each type of authority requested (as of 2024). This fee is non-refundable, so it is essential to ensure that the application is accurate and complete.

• Indirect Costs: In addition to the fee, carriers may also incur indirect costs associated with obtaining an MC number, such as paperwork, documentation, and administrative expenses.

Maintaining and Updating Your MC Number

Once an MC number is obtained, it is essential to maintain and update it regularly to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

• Updating Information: Carriers must update their MC number information every two years to ensure that the information provided to the FMCSA is accurate and up-to-date.

• Insurance Requirements: Carriers must also maintain the required level of insurance/financial responsibilities, which varies depending on the type of authority and the cargo being transported.

• Unified Registration System: The Unified Registration System (URS) is a web-based system that allows carriers to register and update their MC number information online. This system simplifies the process of maintaining compliance and ensures that all necessary information is current.

FAQs About MC Numbers

1. How long does it take to get an MC number?

You will receive your MC number immediately after applying, but it will not be active until FMCSA completes processing and verifies your BOC-3 filing and insurance (typically 3-4 weeks).

2. How much does it cost to get an MC number?

The application fee for an MC number is $300 per type of authority.

3. Can I operate before my MC number is active?

No, you cannot legally operate as a for-hire carrier until your MC number is approved and active.

4. Do I need both a USDOT number and an MC number?

Most for-hire carriers engaged in interstate commerce need both a USDOT number and an MC number.

5. What happens if I don’t comply with FMCSA regulations?

Failure to comply with FMCSA regulations can result in fines, penalties, and even revocation of your operating authority.

Let Focused Compliance Group Handle Your MC Number Registration for the Trucking Industry!

Applying for an MC number and ensuring FMCSA compliance can be complex, but Focused Compliance Group is here to help. We provide:

• MC Number & Operating Authority Registration
• BOC-3 Process Agent Filing
• USDOT Number Registration
• DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing Program Setup
• Ongoing Compliance Support & Safety Audits

We handle the paperwork so you can focus on growing your business!

Let Focused Compliance Group take care of your MC number and compliance needs so you can hit the road legally and with confidence!