Glossary

Authority (Operating Authority)

Quick answer

FMCSA-issued permission for a motor carrier or broker to operate in interstate commerce, evidenced by an active MC number.

An MC number indicates the type of authority granted. Carriers haul; brokers arrange. Authority becomes active 21 days after FMCSA publishes the application and insurance is on file.

Learn more: The Complete New Authority Setup Guide

Related terms

MC NumberFMCSA-issued Motor Carrier number that identifies an authorized for-hire interstate carrier or broker.
DOT Number (USDOT Number)A unique identifier issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation to companies operating commercial vehicles in interstate or hazmat transport.
BOC-3An FMCSA filing that designates a registered process agent in every state where a carrier or broker operates.

How to Get Your Own MC Number in 2026Step-by-step for filing FMCSA Form OP-1 in 2026 — insurance, BOC-3, UCR, and the mandatory 21-day protest wait.
New Authority Setup Checklist (Print This)Every form, fee, and filing for a U.S. new trucking authority — in the correct order — from EIN to ELD provisioning.
Cost of Starting a Trucking Company in 2026: Complete Startup Cost BreakdownThe complete 2026 breakdown of what it costs to start a U.S. trucking company — from LLC formation and MC authority to insurance, equipment, ELDs, IFTA, IRP, and 60–90 days of working capital. Three real budget examples ($18K, $55K, and $180K), the hidden costs most new carriers miss, and how to survive year one.

Authority (Operating Authority)

Related terms

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