What is an MC Number and Why Do You Need One?"
Summary
Learn what an MC Number is, who needs it, how to apply, and the cost involved. This guide covers everything trucking companies must know about Motor Carrier authority.
If you’re starting a transportation business in the U.S., especially in auto hauling or interstate freight, you’ll quickly come across the term “MC Number”. But what exactly is it, and why is it so important?
A Motor Carrier or MC Number is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and is required for companies that transport regulated commodities or passengers across state lines.
Unlike a DOT number, which monitors safety compliance, an MC Number grants operating authority and legal permission to move goods or people for hire in interstate commerce.
Whether you’re a freight broker, a new auto transport company, or a for-hire carrier, understanding how to get your FMCSA MC Number, what it costs, and how it works is critical for staying compliant and running your business smoothly.
Why Is an MC Number Important?
An MC Number is more than just a formality. It’s a critical step in establishing your business as a legitimate carrier in the eyes of federal regulators. Without it, your operations could be considered unauthorized, leading to fines, delays, or shutdowns.
It ensures your business has:
Legal authority to operate interstate: Without an MC Number, transporting goods across state lines is illegal for regulated carriers.
Verified insurance and financial responsibility: The FMCSA requires proof of liability insurance before activating your authority.
FMCSA registration: Your company is publicly listed and monitored under federal regulations, which adds credibility.
Having an active MC Number also increases your trustworthiness in the eyes of shippers, brokers, and marketplaces. It shows you’re not just compliant, but committed to safety and professionalism.
If you are transporting regulated commodities for hire, having an MC number is a key indicator that you are poised for legitimate business opportunities.
Who Needs an MC Number?
Not every transportation business requires an MC Number. It all depends on what you’re hauling, who you’re hauling it for, and whether you’re crossing state lines. Understanding where your business fits ensures you stay compliant and avoid penalties.
Auto transport companies: If you haul cars across state lines, you must meet MC number requirements to operate and be recognized by the FMCSA legally.
Freight brokers: You need an MC Authority to legally arrange shipments for others, even if you never physically touch the freight.
For-hire motor carriers: Anyone transporting regulated commodities or passengers for compensation across state lines must apply to avoid operating unlawfully.
If you’re unsure, a good rule of thumb is: if you’re crossing state borders and getting paid for it, you likely need an MC Number. It’s always safer to verify your status with FMCSA than risk costly violations later.
MC Number vs DOT Number: What’s the Difference?
Many new carriers confuse the DOT Number and MC Number, but they serve distinct purposes and are not interchangeable. Understanding the difference is key to maintaining and achieving full legal compliance from the start.
DOT Number: Tracks safety, inspections, compliance, and accident history. Required for most commercial carriers, it serves as your company’s unique identifier in the FMCSA’s safety monitoring system.
MC Number: Grants operating authority to carry regulated goods or passengers for hire across state lines. It proves that your company has met insurance and financial responsibility requirements to engage in interstate commerce.
In most cases, you’ll need both identity numbers if you’re starting an interstate transportation business. Having both numbers qualifies you’re not only authorized to operate but also held accountable under federal transportation laws.
How to Apply for an MC Number
Getting your MC Number is a straightforward process, but attention to detail is key. A single missed step can delay your operating authority and impact your ability to book loads or legally haul across state lines.
Create an FMCSA registration account.
Visit the FMCSA website and register with the Unified Registration System (URS). This is the online portal where all new trucking companies must apply to get their DOT and MC Numbers. This account will be your portal for all federal filings and updates.
Submit the OP-1 form.
Choose the authority type that fits your business (e.g., motor carrier, broker, or freight forwarder). Carefully fill out the form, as errors can lead to delays or rejections.
Pay the application fee.
Pay $300 per authority type, paid online during form submission. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or withdrawn.
Receive your tracking number.
Once submitted, you’ll get a docket number to track your application status. This isn’t your MC Number yet; it’s a reference used until your authority is granted.
Submit insurance and BOC-3.
These filings must be completed within 21 days, or your application will be dismissed. The BOC-3 designates a legal process agent in every state, while insurance proves you meet FMCSA financial responsibility standards.
You can apply for an MC Number directly through the FMCSA or use a third-party service to assist with the process. Either way, getting your FMCSA MC Number is a crucial step for compliant operations and opening your business to interstate hauling opportunities.
MC Number Cost and Ongoing Requirements
The MC number cost is currently $300 per operating authority. This is a one-time fee paid during the application process, but it’s only part of what’s required to stay compliant and operational in the long term.
Additional requirements include:
Insurance filing: Liability and cargo coverage must be submitted directly by your insurer to the FMCSA. Failure to meet minimum coverage amounts can delay your MC Number activation.
BOC-3 filing: Lists your legal process agents in each state where you operate. A professional filing agent must complete this, and your authority needs to be granted.
Annual updates: You must file a biennial update (Form MCS-150) even if your company details haven’t changed. This keeps your registration current and avoids potential penalties or deactivation.
Renewal monitoring: Stay aware of your authority status to avoid suspensions or revocations. Consider setting calendar reminders or using a compliance management service to stay on top of deadlines.
Delays in filings, missing insurance documentation, or incorrect forms can result in the rejection of your MC Number application or the deactivation of your operating authority down the line, so staying organized is critical.
What Is MC Authority and How Does It Work?
When you receive an MC Number, you’re granted MC Authority, which is the legal right to operate a for-hire carrier business across state lines. This authority is issued by the FMCSA and confirms that your company has met all operational and insurance requirements.
There are different types:
Common Carrier Authority: Transport for the general public without discrimination. This allows you to haul freight for multiple shippers and is ideal for businesses working with load boards or spot freight.
Contract Carrier Authority: Transport under specific contracts with shippers. You’ll need signed agreements in place before moving freight, and this type often provides more consistent work.
Broker Authority: Arrange shipments without taking possession of the freight. Brokers connect carriers with shippers and must carry a $75,000 surety bond to comply with FMCSA regulations.
Selecting the right MC Authority depends on your business model, clientele, and risk tolerance. And while the FMCSA has discussed eliminating MC Numbers in favor of a unified identifier system, they remain a critical and enforceable requirement for carriers and brokers today.
FMCSA Update: Phasing Out MC Numbers?
In 2025, the FMCSA is moving forward with plans to consolidate MC, FF, and DOT Numbers into a single identifier under the Unified Registration System (URS). This initiative is designed to streamline the registration process, reduce confusion among carriers and brokers, and enhance enforcement and compliance efforts.
What does this mean for you?
Existing MC Numbers will remain valid and recognized during and after the transition period.
New applicants will receive a URS number instead of a separate MC or FF number, but the registration requirements will stay largely the same.
You must still meet all current MC number requirements, including insurance and BOC-3 filings, until full implementation.
Staying compliant means staying informed. Regularly check the FMCSA website for updates on URS rollout and ensure your business is ready for any regulatory changes.
How Move Cars Supports New Carriers and Auto Transporters
At Move Cars, we do more than help consumers move their cars across the country; we also support new and established carriers in growing their auto transport businesses.
Whether you’re just getting your MC Number or looking to expand your reach, our platform is built to help you succeed.
Why join our verified carrier directory?
Boost your visibility: Get discovered by thousands of car owners, dealerships, and brokers actively searching for trusted transporters.
Establish credibility: We verify all listed car shipping companies through the MC and DOT authority, helping you build instant trust.
Grow without extra costs: Generate leads and exposure without spending on paid ads, lead generators, or cold calls.
Whether you’re a newly licensed carrier ready to launch or a car owner searching for a reliable transport company, Move Cars is your go-to platform. We provide the tools, visibility, and trusted network to help you start strong and stay ahead.
Discover our wide and trusted network and arrange your car transport in just a few clicks from the comfort of your home. Are you ready to request a quote?
FAQs
How do I know if I need an MC Number?
If you transport goods or passengers for hire across state lines, you likely need one.
Can I operate with only a DOT Number?
Only if you’re not engaging in for-hire interstate transport or transporting exempt commodities.
What happens if my MC Number is revoked?
You cannot legally operate until reinstated, and you may face fines.
Get verified as a carrier today.
Whether you’re applying for your first MC Number or are already DOT-certified, Move Cars can help you take the next step.
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