Federal operating authority granted by the FMCSA, allowing a motor carrier to haul freight under its own name in interstate commerce.

Who needs it

Owner-operators and fleet owners who want to find their own freight (rather than leasing on to a carrier).

How to get it

File online at the FMCSA Unified Registration System. Get a USDOT number (free), then apply for MC authority ($300). Provide proof of insurance (BMC-91 liability filing, BMC-34 cargo) and BOC-3 process agent. 21-day public protest period before authority is active.

Cost

$300 FMCSA filing + $50 BOC-3 + insurance filings (BMC-91, BMC-34). Insurance is the real cost: $9K–$18K/yr per truck in MA.

Where to start

FMCSA Unified Registration System ↗FMCSA SAFER System (carrier safety lookup) ↗