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**Can I operate outside of my base state now that I have applied for operating authority?**

You cannot transport regulated commodities in interstate commerce (for hire) until you have obtained operating authority (certificate and/or permit) and received your single-state registration. The act of applying for operating authority is not sufficient. You cannot operate until the certificate and/or permit has been issued.

If you are transporting exempt commodities (see below) and have a USDOT number, you may operate as an exempt for-hire interstate motor carrier without an MC number. You are still required to abide by your state regulations.

On our website you will find Administrative Ruling No. 119, which is a guide to what is and is not exempt. The booklet no longer is in print, but the information still is accurate. The list of exempt commodities changes, but this can be used as a general guide. A list of non-exempt commodities can be found in the FMCSR in Section 372.115.

Last Updated: May 24, 2023

**Does FMCSA offer temporary operating authority?**

**Who is eligible to obtain temporary authority?**

A motor or passenger carrier wishing to apply for temporary operating authority registration authorizing for-hire commercial motor and passenger vehicle operations, while providing direct assistance supporting emergency relief efforts transporting supplies, equipment and persons into or from the zone where the emergency is taking place.

**When is temporary authority available?**

Applications for temporary authority require a determination that there is, or soon will be, an immediate transportation need that cannot be met by existing motor carrier service.  49 CFR 365.107T(f). Such applications are only entertained in exceptional circumstances, during natural disasters or national emergencies.  49 CFR 365.107T(g).  In most circumstances, the Agency will only entertain applications for temporary authority when an emergency declaration has been issued, consistent with 49 CFR 390.23.

**Where can I find information on current emergency declarations?**

Go to https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency for links to current FMCSA emergency declarations. The temporary authority is only active as long as the emergency declaration is in effect. All *temporary* authorities will be revoked once the emergency declaration expires.

**How can a carrier apply for this *temporary* authority?**
                              - If a carrier does not have a USDOT number, they must apply for one by submitting a signed MCS-150 form (write “Emergency Temporary Authority” at the top) with their OP-1, rather than filing via URS. To access the MCS-150 form,  click here . Carriers that are subject to an FMCSA Out of Service Order are not eligible for temporary authority.
                              - A carrier must file a signed form OP-1 with “Emergency Temporary Authority” written at the top along with the specific Emergency Declaration found at  https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency-declarations  by fax/web form rather than online. To access form OP-1,  click here . You can submit it by:	                                 - Submitting a ticket through our website at:  ask.fmcsa.dot.gov . Select Inquiry Type:  Operating Authority (Docket Number) > Request temporary operating authority due to an emergency declaration  – This is the fastest option; or
                                - Fax: 202-366-3477 (Put “Emergency  Temporary Authority ” on the fax cover sheet) 
                              - The application fee has been waived.  
                              - The carrier must also file proof of insurance and have form BOC-3 (Designation of Process Agent) on file with FMCSA. For more information on insurance requirements  click here , and for and BOC-3 requirements,  click here .
                              - Pursuant to 49 CFR 365.107T(g), the carrier is also required to provide a statement on why they need temporary operating authority, appended to Form OP-1 for property carriers, Form OP-1(MX) for Mexican property carriers and, Form OP-1(P) for motor passenger carriers.

**How long does it take for temporary authority to be granted?**

OP-1 applications for temporary authority should be processed within **48 business hours** of receipt. However, the authority will not be granted until the carrier’s evidence of financial responsibility (insurance) and BOC-3 form are on file with FMCSA.

The authority is valid for 120 days or until the emergency declaration expires, whichever comes first.

If a carrier wishes to apply for permanent authority, they need to apply using the same MC/USDOT number granted for the *temporary* authority. The applicant would be required to pay the $300 fee for permanent *operating* authority registration, as well. For more information, click here.

 

Last Updated: May 24, 2023

**Do motor carriers and freight forwarders in Puerto Rico need to get operating authority (MC number)?**

Puerto Rico is subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).  Entities engaged in For-Hire (for compensation) and Interstate operations are required to obtain operating authority (MC number). 

Even if you're solely operating within Puerto Rico, you may still be required to obtain operating authority (MC number) if the property you're transporting originated from or is destined for another location within the United States. 

Last Updated: May 24, 2023

**Does a broker process loss and damage claims?**

No, a *broker*assumes no responsibility for the shipment and does not touch the shipment. A claim must be filed with the appropriate motor carrier, which usually would be the delivering carrier or the carrier causing the *loss*. *Brokers*may, however, assist shippers in filing claims with the motor carrier on the shipper’s behalf.

Last Updated: May 24, 2023

**Where can I get a copy of my company safety profile?**

The Company Safety Profile (CSP) is a comprehensive summary that provides essential safety-related information about on an individual Company's operation. The information on the CSP is available from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) record system known as the Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS).  The CSP incorporates the most up-to-date data from MCMIS, including selected items from inspection reports, crash reports, as well as any reviews or enforcement actions involving the company. It serves as a valuable resource for assessing the safety performance of carriers. 

Effective June 14, 2023: FMCSA will no longer fulfill CSP requests for a fee.  Instead, authorized Company Officials can access the CSP report at any time through their FMCSA Portal account at no cost.  To Download the report from your FMCSA Portal, please follow these steps: 
                              -  Log into the FMCSA Portal.  
                              -  Select the “Reports” tab from the menu at the top.  
                              -  Select the date range and information you would like to include in the report .  
                              -  Click the “Submit Request” button.  A new window will open with confirmation that the request has been submitted. Click “OK”.   
                              -   Click on the “Check Request Availability” button. Once the report has been generated, the “Download XML” and “Download PDF” buttons will then be active for you to click.  
                              -  Select the applicable download button (“Download PDF” or “Download XML” button).   
                              -  The selected file be downloaded to your computer.  

Please note, CSP reports can only be accessed by authorized company officials with FMCSA Portal access.  All other persons should file a request with the FOIA office.   Information on making a FOIA request can be found online here: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/foia/foia-requests  
                              -  

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**Are USDOT numbers transferable?**

No, USDOT Numbers are not *transferable*. For more information about USDOT numbers and changing ownership, legal name or form of business, click here. 

Operating authorities (MC numbers) are *transferable*. For more information, please see our Operating Authority *Transfer* FAQs.

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**Can a motor carrier broker loads?**

No. A motor carrier cannot *broker loads*without first applying for and receiving a license to operate as a property *broker*.

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**Am I required to have broker authority if I am brokering loads of a non-regulated (exempt) commodity such as garbage?**

 click here to access Administrative Ruling 119 For information on obtaining broker authority, click here

 

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**As a passenger carrier, do I need a USDOT number?**

Yes if you are operating interstate commerce and one of the following apply to you:
                              - Your vehicle is designed or used to transport 9 to 15   passengers   (including the driver) and is operated for compensation, whether direct or indirect
                              - Your vehicle is designed or used to transport 16 or more   passengers   (including the driver)
                              - Your passenger-carrying vehicle has an actual weight or gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 pounds (4,536 kg) or more

For information on how to apply for a US DOT number, click here.

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**Can I lease my services and operate under another entity's operating authority until my own is active?**

Yes, *leasing* motor carrier *services* is permissible if you comply with the requirements under FMCSR Section 376.11.

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**After I provide my State Driver Licensing Agency (SDLA) with my unexpired medical examiner’s certificate, do I still have to carry an original or copy of my medical examiner’s certificate?**

Yes. Even though you have submitted a copy of your medical certificate to your state driver’s licensing agency, you still have to carry it with you for a minimum of 10 days to give the state time to add it to the system.

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**As a passenger carrier, will I need Operating Authority?**

Yes - if you are for-hire and engaging in interstate commerce (crossing state lines, going to the airport or port of entry).

A for-hire *passenger* *carrier* is a company that provides transportation of *passengers* for compensation.

You can be a for-hire *passenger* *carrier* regardless of whether:
                              - You are compensated directly or indirectly for the transportation service provided, or
                              - The compensation is paid or not paid by the   passengers

To apply for *passenger* *carrier* authority, first-time applicants must begin the online registration process via our Unified Registration System. This process requires a credit card.

If you already have a US DOT number and/or an additional operating authority, you must apply via our existing application procedures.

Last Updated: May 23, 2023

**I am a Mexican Citizen, and my business is in the U.S. Can I apply for operating authority to transport cargo within the U.S.?**

No. If the business is headquartered in the United States, but is owned or controlled (greater than 55%) by a Mexican citizen or resident alien, you may not apply for *Motor Common Carrier of Property Authority *to engage in point-to-point transportation within the U.S.* *However*, *you may apply for *Motor Passenger Carrier Authority *and/or for* United States-based Enterprise Carrier of International Cargo Authority.* 

**Background**:

The *Bus Regulatory Reform Act of 1982*, and its Section 6 allows for a Presidential executive order prohibiting the issuance of certificates or permits to motor carriers domiciled in or owned by citizens of a contiguous foreign country (a moratorium}. The change from the moratorium and allowance of Mexican investment in U.S. *trucking* companies came about first by NAFTA but wasn’t officially allowed until a Presidential Executive Order in June of 2001. A July 27, 2004 internal memo from attorney Suzanne E. Newhouse explains “The Basics of Enterprise Authority:”

***Present State of Enterprise Authority***

*As of January 1, 2004, the NAFTA obligated its participant countries to allow for Enterprise Authority. Enterprise Authority is the ability of investors in one NAFTA country to purchase up to 100% interest in a transportation company domiciled in another NAFTA country. The transportation company may provide passenger carrier services, such as inter-city bus services or tourist transportation services, or property carrier services, such as the transportation of international cargo between points in the domiciled NAFTA country.*

***Presently, the U.S. complies with this NAFTA obligation. Investment restrictions were lifted in June 2001, thus encouraging Mexican investors to purchase U.S. based carriers and provide transportation of international cargo between points within the U.S. Despite U.S. adherence to the NAFTA mandate for enterprise authority, Mexico has not taken the necessary actions to comply with this NAFTA requirement and U.S. investors cannot enjoy the same benefits Mexican investors have with U.S. companies.*

The NAFTA treaty in 1994 allows for Mexican investors and for the transportation of international freight in the US.  In 2001, the Presidential moratorium was lifted to specifically meet the provisions in the NAFTA treaty, but does not expand limits on international cargo only for Mexican investors in US companies.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**Do intrastate carriers of non-hazardous materials need a USDOT number?**

Depending on the state you are operating in, you may be required to obtain a USDOT number even if you only operate intrastate and your cargo or vehicle never crosses state lines. Some states have their own intrastate regulations that require carriers to obtain a USDOT number, while others may not. It is recommended that you check with your state's Department of Transportation or responsible state agency to determine if you need a USDOT number. Additionally, even if you are not required to obtain a USDOT number, you may still need to comply with other state and federal regulations, such as *safety* and insurance requirements. 

You may also refer to the FMCSA Registration Page. 

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**What is the New Entrant Program?**

The New Entrant Program introduces new interstate motor carriers to federal *safety* standards and regulations. When a carrier registers and receives a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Number, they are considered a New Entrant for 18 months. A *Safety* Audit will be conducted within 12 months after the New Entrant begins operations.

New Entrants will receive a letter from FMCSA explaining what they need to do next.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**How can I check out a moving company or file a complaint against a motor carrier or broker?**

For information on what you can expect from a moving company, see the Federal Motor Carrier *Safety* Administration (FMCSA) web site "Protect Your Move."  This site gives summaries of your rights as a consumer, instructions on how to respond if there is a problem with your move, etc.

Customers can file a complaint against a motor carrier or broker online or call 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238). To check a moving company's FMCSA registration information and history, go to the Protect Your Move look-up page for household goods carriers.You may also wish to check the company's status with the Better Business Bureau.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**What does a new entrant need to do to reapply after its new entrant registration has been revoked? (§ 385.329)**

A new entrant whose USDOT new entrant registration has been revoked, and whose operations have been placed out of service by FMCSA, may reapply for new entrant registration no sooner than 30 days after the date of revocation. If the USDOT new entrant registration was revoked because of a failed *safety* audit, the new entrant must do all of the following:
                              - Submit an updated  MCS-150  and check the box “Reapplication (after revocation of new entrant)”
                              - Submit evidence that it has corrected the deficiencies that resulted in revocation of its registration and will otherwise ensure that it will have basic  safety  management controls in effect
                              - Begin the 18-month new entrant monitoring cycle again as of the date the re-filed application is approved

If the USDOT new entrant registration was revoked because FMCSA found that the new entrant had failed to submit to a *safety* audit, it must do all of the following:
                              - Submit an updated  MCS-150  and check the box “Reapplication (after revocation of new entrant)”
                              - Begin the 18-month new entrant monitoring cycle again as of the date the re-filed application is approved
                              - Submit to a  safety  audit

If the new entrant is a for-hire carrier subject to the registration provisions under 49 U.S.C. 13901 and has also had its operating authority revoked, it must apply for new operating authority. 

For more information on the New Entrant Program, click here.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**What are the consequences of furnishing misleading information or making a false statement in connection with the New Entrant registration process? (§ 385.306)**

A carrier that furnishes false or misleading information, or conceals material information in connection with the registration process, is subject to the following actions:
                              - Revocation of  safety  registration
                              - Assessment of the civil and/or criminal penalties prescribed in  49 U.S.C. 521  and  49 U.S.C. Chapter 149

For more information on the New Entrant Program, click here.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**Who does the New Entrant rule apply to?**

The New Entrant *Safety* Assurance Program (New Entrant Program) under 49 CFR part 385, subpart D applies to all new U.S.- and Canada-domiciled motor carrier owners and operators seeking authority to conduct interstate operations within the United States.

For more information on the New Entrant Program, click here.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

**What are the definitions of motor carrier, broker and freight forwarder authorities?**

A motor carrier operates commercial motor vehicles (CMV’s) to transport property, passengers, or hazardous materials (HAZMAT) and is involved in commerce (transportation related to a business). It could be a company with several power units, or it could be an owner-operator.

Note: CMVs include vehicles with Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR, which is the prescribed weight limit from the vehicle manufacturer, indicating the total amount the vehicle can weigh to operate safely) or Gross combination weight (GVW, which is the total weight of the *truck*, any trailers and cargo), of 10,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater.

A broker is the “middle person” between a shipper and a motor carrier. Brokers arrange for the transportation of property or household goods. They don’t transport the property, don’t operate motor vehicles or have drivers, and don’t assume responsibility for the cargo being transported. Hence, they don’t directly engage with it.

A freight forwarder organizes shipments for individuals or corporations. Freight forwarders assemble and consolidate shipments and provide for break-bulk and distribution of shipments. Unlike Brokers, Freight Forwarders assume responsibility for the transportation and may transport the freight itself. Therefore, they are involved directly or indirectly with the cargo.

Note: If you only transport Freight, you are not a Freight Forwarder.

To learn more about entity types, see our video ”How To Identify Entity Types”. Also located on the FMCSA Registration Home Page.

Last Updated: May 22, 2023

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