Switching Operating Authority: How to Change From Intrastate to Interstate

As a commercial trucker or motor carrier, you have the option to drive within a specific region, or you can expand your routes to cover multiple states. Commercial driver's licenses outline a trucker's ability to haul freight in-state or over state lines, thanks to the license's K restriction. So what happens if you want to switch to an interstate operating authority?

At FMCA Filings, we know many things like the necessary steps to file a DOT biennial MCS-150 and how to change from intrastate to interstate authority. For more details on the latter, continue reading. 

Why Do Intrastate and Interstate Commercial Trucking Differ?

If your CDL has a K restriction, you're an intrastate trucker. That means you can only operate your trucking business within the confines of the state that issues the license.

People usually have this restriction due to age, medical reasons, or the inability to meet all federal requirements for interstate operating authority. Drivers aged 18 to 20 with a CDL will start off as intrastate drivers but may gain interstate privileges after turning 21. With that privilege, they can travel across state lines to deliver cargo and passengers. 

Other differences between intrastate and interstate driving include the following.

Truck Type

Intrastate truckers usually operate vehicles like semi-trucks, reefer trucks, and 18-wheelers. Conversely, interstate motor carriers can drive tow trucks, concrete mixing trucks, and garbage trucks.

Insurance Requirements

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, any motor carrier moving cargo over state lines must meet these minimum insurance requirements:

• $1 million for hauling oil as a private carrier
• $5 million for hauling hazardous material as a private or for-hire carrier
• $750,000 for hauling non-hazardous material in a vehicle weighing over 10,001 pounds
• $300,000 for hauling non-hazardous material in a vehicle weighing less than 10,001 pounds

The insurance requirements for motor carriers with intrastate operating authority will vary by state. For instance, Florida's minimum insurance requirement can be as little as $50,000, depending on weight.

Operation Authority

Operation authority is like a license or permission in trucking. For interstate operating authority, you must have a US DOT number from the Department of Transportation. A US DOT number isn't necessary for most intrastate carriers, though some states have specific regulations regarding operating authority.

How Do You Switch From Intrastate to Interstate Authority?

To learn how to change from intrastate to interstate operating authority, consider these steps:

• Book an appointment with a certified medical examiner to evaluate your health. Ensure the physician is on the FMCSA National Registry.
• Undergo and pass a DOT medical exam to ensure you meet all federal health regulations for interstate trucking. The examination will cover everything from your vision to your blood pressure. 
• Get a DOT medical certification showing you are fit and meet the necessary standards. 
• Change your K Restriction at your local Department of Motor Vehicles. You'll need your current CDL, DOT medical certificate, and CDL application.

It's always good to thoroughly research your state's requirements when changing DOT authority. Every state has its own guidelines and regulations for intrastate trucking, so you must follow the appropriate rules to avoid hefty fines and penalties.

Will Having an Intrastate or Interstate Carrier Registration Create More Job Opportunities?

Having a K restriction can be beneficial if you intend to limit your business operations to one state. Yet, shifting to interstate commercial driving can expand your driving roles, giving you more opportunities to meet and connect with clients in other states who'll provide repeat business.

Though knowing how to change from intrastate to interstate authority can give you more job opportunities away from your state, you can still earn well as an intrastate trucker. For instance, you can provide everything from public transportation to local deliveries. 

What Are the Main Challenges of Transitioning to Interstate Operations or Intrastate Operations?

Switching from intrastate to interstate authority is a major business shift that no one should take lightly. Though it can open up your trucking business to new opportunities and clientele, you must not ignore how the change could challenge your daily operations. 

For instance, changing your operations will require you to adjust your routes, workload, and equipment to accommodate the DOT interstate trucking regulations that differ from those within your state. You may also have greater financial responsibilities due to taxes, training, and permits.

Changing DOT Authority? Let FMCA Filings Help

If you're starting a trucking company or want to learn how to change from intrastate to interstate operations, count on FMCA Filings to help. As a premier motor carrier filing service, we have a wealth of information regarding the safety and administrative obligations in the trucking industry, including what you need to get interstate transportation authorization. 

FMCA Filings offers an easily navigatable portal featuring our services and vital, up-to-date information about regulations and permits. Contact our team today online or use our live chat feature to speak with a knowledgeable agent now.