If you’re ready to take the wheel of your own business and start a trucking company, one of the first and most important steps is getting your operating authority. Often called trucking authority, this is the legal permission you need to haul freight for hire across state lines. But what is trucking authority exactly, and how do you go about getting it?
Whether you’re an experienced driver or brand new to the industry, this guide will walk you through how to get trucking authority and help you understand the process from start to finish. Plus, we’ll show you how Operating Authority can make the process faster, easier, and less stressful.
What Is Trucking Authority or Operating Authority?
Operating authority, also known as trucking authority, is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It gives your company the legal right to operate as a for hire carrier and get paid to move goods across state lines.
Without it, you can’t legally run a trucking business or broker freight. The good news? Operating Authority can handle the entire process for you, from filing paperwork to meeting compliance requirements.
1. Choose Your Business Structure
Before applying for operating authority, you need to form a legal business. This includes selecting a business structure (LLC or corporation), registering your name, and getting an EIN from the IRS.
2. Decide on the Type of Authority You Need
There are different types of operating authority depending on how your business will operate. You will need your Motor Carrier (MC) Authority for this. From there, the FMCSA will require you to specify which type of MC authority for interstate transportation purposes. The most common include:
- Carrier of Property – Required if you plan to transport regulated commodities across state lines
- Passenger Carrier – Required if you want to transport passengers for hire
- Household Goods – Required if you will be transporting other people’s personal property for compensation (for example, a moving company)
- Broker Authority – Required if you arrange shipments but don’t operate the trucks
Operating Authority offers custom trucking authority packages that help you choose the right path and complete all necessary filings.
3. Register with the FMCSA
You’ll apply for your MC and USDOT numbers through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System. This step includes submitting business details and paying the registration fee.
Not sure where to start? We’ll take care of this step for you as part of our authority setup services.
4. Designate a Process Agent (BOC 3 Filing)
You must file a BOC 3 to designate a process agent in each state. This person receives legal documents on your behalf.
Operating Authority includes BOC 3 filing in all of our trucking authority packages, saving you time and hassle.
5. Secure the Required Insurance
You’ll need to purchase the appropriate liability and cargo insurance, which your provider will file with the FMCSA. Your operating authority won’t become active until proof of insurance is submitted.
While we don’t sell insurance directly, Operating Authority works with trusted partners and can connect you with qualified providers to ensure you meet requirements.
6. Complete UCR, IFTA, and IRP Registrations
If your operations cross state lines, you’ll need to register for UCR (Unified Carrier Registration), IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement), and IRP (International Registration Plan). These ensure tax and registration compliance across multiple states.
Our team can help determine which of these you need and complete the registrations as part of your authority setup.
7. Start Operating
Once your authority is approved and your insurance is in place, you’re officially cleared to operate as a for hire carrier. Congratulations! You’re now a business owner in the trucking industry.
Make It Easy with Trucking Authority Packages from Operating Authority
Let’s be honest, setting up your authority can be complicated and time consuming. But it doesn’t have to be.
Our trucking authority packages are designed to simplify every step. From entity formation and FMCSA registration to BOC 3 filing and compliance guidance, Operating Authority is your one stop shop to get on the road faster.
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to file today, Operating Authority is here to help. Explore our full-service trucking authority packages and let us handle the paperwork while you focus on the road ahead. We’ve helped thousands of drivers and small fleets become owner operators, and we can help you too. Contact us today to get on the road!