Can I Operate Without an MC Number?

Are you wondering, "Can I operate without an MC Number?" At FMCA Filings, we're your one-stop source for everything you need to know about how to get an MC number and the trucking industry as a whole. 

Keep reading to discover everything you must know about the Motor Carrier Safety Administration's rules concerning your motor carrier number. If you're a driver that requires a number, you can easily file for one on our website.

The Role of the MC Number

Why do certain drivers need a motor carrier number? Also known as Operating Authority, the number verifies that drivers who transport goods and passengers across state lines have the proper authority to conduct business. It facilitates the process of tracking drivers and ensuring their compliance, safety, and accountability.

Who Needs an MC Number?

Not every trucker requires an MC number. In general, the requirements apply only to carriers that exclusively haul products or people across state lines or passengers in interstate commerce. You do not require an MC number if any of the following apply:

• You're a private carrier that transports your own goods.
• You only haul exempt commodities not regulated at the federal level.
• You operate exclusively within a commercial zone designated by the federal government as exempt. 

MC Number VS USDOT Number

Do you need both an MC number and a USDOT number? You always need a number from the United States Department of Transportation, regardless of where you operate. You only need an additional MC number if you regularly operate across state lines. 

Obtaining Your MC Number

If you've been asking, "Can I operate without an MC Number?" by now you should know whether or not you need one. If you're an interstate commerce driver who requires an MC number, you can apply for it on the FMCA Filings website using the following process.

Obtain Insurance Coverage

To obtain your MC number, you'll need proof you have the minimum required insurance for operating a commercial vehicle in your state. While minimum requirements vary depending on your jurisdiction, you'll need liability insurance, an umbrella policy, and depending on the type of products you haul, cargo insurance. You can reach out to your insurance agent or the experts at FMCA Filings to learn more about your insurance requirements.

Gather Documents

To ensure you can efficiently apply for your MC number, gather all your necessary documents before applying. You'll need the following information to complete your application:

• Proof of insurance
• Your USDOT number
• Type of cargo you haul
• Company type

You can obtain a more complete list of what you need to register for your MC number on the FMCA Filings website.

Visit the FMCA Filings Website

Registering through the user portal at FMCA Filings is the most stress-free and efficient method of obtaining your MC number, tracking its status, and making any changes or updates. If you're a new applicant, plan ahead so you can have your number in time to start operating. The process can take up to 25 days if you don't require further review, or up to eight weeks for drivers who need further inspection.

Still, applying on our website saves you significant time, as applying through mail can take up to 60 days. Do you need to file other forms for your trucking business? On our website, you can easily file for the following and more:

• USDOT number and renewal
• Unified carrier registration, renewals, and adjustments
• State permits for Kentucky and New Mexico
• Authority rating letter
• NCAC codes
• UCR Exemptions

No matter what you need for your trucking industry, you can access it on the FMCA Filings website.

Pay the Application Fee

The application fee for filing pays for the labor and technology involved in processing your application, storing your information, and other administration requirements. As a business expense, you may have success writing it off on your taxes, but talk with your accountant for confirmation.

Renew Biennially

You must renew your MC number every two years. The FMCSA may require you to renew it sooner if you make significant changes to your operation, such as changing the type of cargo carry or the type of truck you drive. 

You can examine the status of your MC number in your user portal on the FMCA Filings. You'll pay less to renew your number than you did the first time you applied.

Apply for Your MC Number With FMCA Filings

Is the answer to your question, "Can I operate without an MC number?" a clear yes? FMCA Filings makes the process of obtaining your number efficient and stress-free. Whether you're wondering about DOT regulations for pickup trucks and trailers or how to prepare for your annual inspection, you can find all the information you need in one convenient location.

You can contact us by filling out our online form. If you wish to speak directly to a qualified agent, use our live chat feature.