Getting an operating authority is having the legal permission granted to a motor carrier for operating a commercial motor vehicle throughout the U.S. for the following purposes:

Businesses engaging in the these operations must get an operating authority (MC number, FF Number or HHG Number) along with a DOT number.

Applying for a an MC Number takes about twenty to twenty-five business days to complete. Once you have applied and completed the application, your information will be published in the FMCSA gov registry.

To successfully obtain an MC Number, there are additional requirements, including filing your BOC-3 processing agent, securing an insurance, surety bond, etc. You have at least eighty business days to comply with these requirements and failure to do so may result in application dismissal, requiring an additional fee for a new MC Number or operating authority.

An MC Number is required if you participate in interstate commerce (crossing state lines for compensation). You must have interstate operating authority (an MC Number) along with a USDOT Number for those who are involved in transporting federally regulated commodities owned by others or arranging transport for a fee in interstate commerce and for businesses transporting passengers in interstate commerce for a fee, either directly or indirectly.

A broker authority is for individuals, partnerships, or corporations that arrange transportation for others by obtaining an MC Number (Motor Carrier Number). You can either be a Broker of Property/Freight or a Broker of Household Goods. Broker of Property/Freight arranges transportation of belongings for others (excluding household goods) by using an authorized Motor Carrier. Broker of Household Goods arranges transportation of household goods (personal items and property used at home) for others using an authorized Motor Carrier. Brokers do not have responsibility for the property and never take possession of it. Brokers are required to get a Surety Bond or Trust Fund Agreement.

Freight Forwarders get an FF Number, while brokers and carriers receive MC Numbers. Since Freight Forwarders are not involved in transporting goods, there are no provisions for them to getting single-state registration. Freight Forwarders are responsible for coordinating the transportation of goods through FMCSA issued carriers. They issue bills of lading to shippers and take responsibility for any loss or damage to the goods. When granted permission by FMCSA Operating Authority to arrange for interstate or foreign commerce, an FF Number is assigned. Registration with FMCSA DOT gov is mandatory for Freight Forwarders. Freight Forwarders must also register with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) by filing a Form OP-1 (FF).