Taking the Road Less Traveled: A Guide to Becoming a Motor Carrier

Are you considering becoming a motor carrier? Operating a trucking business is a complex endeavor that requires complying with numerous state and federal regulations. In order to become a motor carrier, there are certain things you must do and documents you must have.

This blog post will take you through the steps necessary to become a motor carrier and provide helpful information on what documents are needed. First, you must obtain an MC (Motor Carrier) and DOT (Department of Transportation) number for your business. These numbers are required for operating a commercial vehicle in the United States, and you can apply for these numbers through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

The next step is to obtain auto liability and cargo insurance. Auto liability insurance is required in order to transport passengers or property for a fee. Cargo insurance is necessary for any motor carrier transporting goods for others.

In addition to insurance, you must also have a BOC-3 form on file. This form is necessary for any motor carrier operating in interstate commerce. It provides the FMCSA with contact information for service of process in case of a lawsuit or legal action.

You will also need to have an alcohol consortium. This group of authorized personnel can conduct random drug and alcohol testing on drivers. This is a requirement of the FMCSA for motor carriers operating in interstate commerce.

The last requirement is Unified Carrier Registration (UCR). This is an annual fee that must be paid for each vehicle registered to a motor carrier. The prices vary by state and must be paid for a motor carrier to comply with the law.

Finally, depending on the state in which you will be operating, you may also need to file for unique state registrations such as International Registration Plan (IRP), International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA), New York Highway Use Tax (NY HUT), and Electronic Credentialing (ECT).

By following these steps and familiarizing yourself with the requirements of the FMCSA and the state in which you will be operating, you can ensure that you are properly registered and compliant with all rules and regulations.

If you are ready to file your operating authority and need assistance, we can help. Schedule a consultation to ensure you are adequately prepared before moving forward.