GENERAL INFORMATION
A motor carrier number, MC number, is an identifier that accompanies an interstate operating authority for motor carriers (transportation companies with a US DOT number). In simple terms, this is an authority or a permission to engage in interstate commerce. In even simpler terms, if you have a heavy vehicle that transports goods "interstate for profit" you need to obtain a permission from the government in the form of an MC Number (an operating authority).
The simplest way to apply for a new MC Authority number is through an online application: MC Number Application.found below. If you're stuck or unsure how to proceed you may use the chat function found in the lower corner to obtain your answers or chat with live agent online.
If you prefer to speak directly to a processing officer or file the application over the phone, call240-544-0880, Monday - Friday 9AM-5PM CST.
The following entities are required to obtain an MC Number Authority in order to and before they engage in interstate commerce.:
INTERSTATE PASSENGER TRANSPORTATION
Any company or entity which transports passengers across state boundaries for a fee or other direct/indirect compensation
INTERSTATE CARGO TRANSPORTATION
Any entity which transports federally-regulated commodities (cargo) in interstate commerce, whether owned by others or arranging for its transportation, whether for a fee or other compensation
If your U.S. DOT is active and up to date you may begin the application for an MC Number by filing the form below. The cost of the application is $750, and includes the BOC-3 and all processing fees.
Based on the current U.S. DOT processing times, the time to obtain MC# is 20-25 days.
All new MC Number applicants must obtain BOC-3 filing, which is a Blanket Process Agent. In simple terms, a process agent is an individual or an entity in each state who will accept and forward legal documents on your behalf, should it be necessary. This MC Number application includes the BOC-3 filing fee.
The insurance policy limits vary based on the type of operating authority, cargo transported and weight of the vehicle. The FMCSA provides the below list of requirements:
FREIGHT: $750K - $5MIL depending on the commodities transported; vehicles below 10,001 pounds which transport non-hazmat must have $300K limit.
PASSENGERS: $5MIL; if fewer than 15 passengers it is $1.5MIL.
All motor carriers are subject to the BIPD (Bodily Injury/Property Damage) insurance. The Household Carriers and HHS Freight Forwarders are subject to Cargo Insurance of $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurence.
As soon as you receive your MC# (docket number), you must reach out to your insurance underwriting department to file the insurance endorsement to the U.S. DOT. Your insurance underwriting department will simply process it via insurance filer account which they can set up directly with the U.S. DOT.
If you have an MC number you are required register and annually renew a UCR - Unified Carrier Registration - in order to be fully compliant and avoid violations while transporting interstate. Visit ucrportal.usand register today to avoid penalties.
Those companies who applied for MC number but never activated it, or those who had the number but voluntarily revoked it, due of insurance cost or other issues, for a period of time, please call to speak to compliance officer to assist. Reinstating your MC number (after it's been revoked, or undismissing your application depending on time period since filing.
Call to speak with compliance officer: (240) 544-0880
MC Number - Interstate Authority Application
Mailing Address
2000 Pennsylvania Ave NW# 1022
Washington, DC 20006
Phone
(240) 544-0881