- DOT Number Registration
- Operating Authority
- BOC-3 Filing
- UCR Registration
- MCS-150 Biennial Update
- Clearinghouse Registration
OPERATING AUTHORITY
The Operating Authority Registration Portal is an electronic on-line registration system for motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, intermodal equipment providers (IEPs), hazardous materials safety permit (HMSP) applicants/holders, and cargo tank manufacturing and repair facilities.
Apply for MC Number, FF Number, MX Number or HHG Number
Enter your DOT number to get started
If you need to make any updates or changes to your USDOT Number, please file an MCS-150 Update.
What is an Operating Authority (MC number)?
Getting an Operating Authority is having the legal permission granted to a motor carrier for operating a commercial motor vehicle throughout the U.S. by MOTUS for the following purposes:
- Operating as for-hire carriers (Getting paid to transport).
- Transporting passengers or arranging their transport in interstate commerce.
- Transporting federally regulated commodities or arranging for their transport in interstate commerce.
Businesses engaging in the these operations must get an operating authority (MC number, FF Number or HHG Number) along with a DOT number from MOTUS.
FMCSAServices
Apply for an MC Number from FMCSA
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 from MOTUS, 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.
MC Number (Motor Carrier Number)
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.
Broker Authority
A Broker Authority is for individuals, partnerships, or corporations that arrange transportation for others by obtaining an MC Number (Motor Carrier Number) from MOTUS. 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.
FF Number (Freight Forwarder Number)
Freight Forwarders get an FF Number, while brokers and carriers receive MC Numbers from MOTUS. 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).
Ready to Apply for an MC Number?
Applying for an MC Number typically takes 20–25 business days. We file with FMCSA the same business day you submit.