What filings are required before MC authority goes active?
By Jake Marsh · Reviewed · Numbers are Rookiefeed analysis as of , updated daily · How the list is built
A for-hire carrier needs two filings on record before FMCSA grants authority: proof of liability insurance, which the insurer files on Form BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82, and a BOC-3 process agent designation. Household goods carriers also need a cargo filing, BMC-34 or BMC-83. Brokers and freight forwarders file a $75,000 BMC-84 or BMC-85 instead of liability insurance.
Which filings each operation needs
These amounts are from FMCSA's insurance filing chart, which also covers passenger carriers. Anyone applying for operating authority also needs a BOC-3. More on the forms in BMC-91 and BMC-91X explained.
| Operation | Liability (BIPD) minimum | Other required amount | Insurance forms |
|---|---|---|---|
| For-hire property, non-hazardous, 10,001 lbs or more | $750,000 | None | BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82 |
| For-hire property, non-hazardous, under 10,001 lbs | $300,000 | None | BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82 |
| For-hire carrier of certain hazardous materials | $1,000,000 | None | BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82 |
| For-hire or private carrier of explosives, poison gas or radioactive materials | $5,000,000 | None | BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82 |
| For-hire household goods, 10,001 lbs or more | $750,000 | $5,000 cargo | BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82, plus BMC-34 or BMC-83 |
| Broker | None | $75,000 bond or trust | BMC-84 or BMC-85 |
| Freight forwarder of property | None | $75,000 bond or trust | BMC-84 or BMC-85 |
Who files what
- Insurance: your insurer or surety files it, not you. Buying a policy doesn't put a filing on record, so ask for confirmation that it was submitted.
- BOC-3: a process agent or blanket company files it. FMCSA describes blanket companies as designating process agents in all US states and DC.
- MCS-90 or MCS-82: FMCSA lists these as the endorsement forms for policies and surety bonds, separate from the filings above.
The order and the deadline
FMCSA's guidance for a complete application is 20 to 25 business days, so a late filing adds to the wait. See how long MC authority takes.
- Apply for your USDOT number and operating authority in Motus.
- As soon as you have your docket number, ask your insurer to file. FMCSA tells new registrants to request it immediately after getting the docket.
- Have your process agent or blanket company file the BOC-3.
- Watch for publication in the FMCSA Register. If you haven't complied within 20 days of publication, FMCSA serves a decision saying your application will be dismissed unless you comply within 60 days.
- Check the pending reason in Motus. FMCSA gives examples such as "Pending – FMCSA Review," "Pending – Process Agent (Form BOC-3) Filings" and "Pending – Financial Responsibility Filings."
Why filings get held up
FMCSA cautions that your business name and address must match exactly across pre-registration filings, such as your secretary of state record, and your authority application. It says any deviation delays the grant. Compare the spelling on your application, your policy and your BOC-3 before anyone files.
After the grant
Both filings have to stay on record. FMCSA says you must keep proof of insurance and your designation of agents on file to avoid revocation proceedings, and it's your job to monitor them. If they lapse, see how to reinstate revoked MC authority.
What these filings tell a seller
Filings are why a grant is a stronger signal than an application: a granted carrier has already bought coverage and named an agent. In the 30 days ending November 15, 2026, 98.8% of new for-hire grants had BIPD insurance on file (Rookiefeed analysis).
Rookiefeed includes the insurer on file with each newly granted carrier, which is what a truck insurance agent quotes against. Rookiefeed is $59 a month for one state once a week, $149 for one state every day, $299 for up to 8 states and $599 for every state, and you can cancel any time. Build a free list to see the rows.
Questions
- What filings do I need for MC authority?
- For a for-hire property carrier, proof of liability insurance on Form BMC-91, BMC-91X or BMC-82, filed by your insurer, and a BOC-3 process agent designation. FMCSA won't grant the authority until they're on file.
- What happens if my insurance isn't filed in time?
- If you haven't complied within 20 days of publication in the FMCSA Register, FMCSA serves a decision saying your application will be dismissed unless you comply within 60 days.
- Do I need cargo insurance on file for MC authority?
- FMCSA's chart shows a $0 cargo filing requirement for general freight carriers. Household goods carriers need $5,000 on Form BMC-34 or BMC-83. Brokers and shippers can still ask for cargo coverage by contract.
- Who files the BOC-3?
- A process agent or blanket company. FMCSA describes blanket companies as designating process agents in all US states and DC for motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders.
Every new carrier, by 7am
Owner name, phone, email, fleet, equipment and insurer for each carrier FMCSA authorized yesterday, as a CSV.
Related
Sources: FMCSA: Insurance Filing Requirements · AskFMCSA: blanket companies and supporting companies · FMCSA: Changes to FMCSA Registrations in Motus · FMCSA FAQ: how long application processing takes · 49 CFR part 366 (process agents)