Operating Authority (MC Number)

FMCSA

US federalAwaiting academy review Last reviewed: not yet reviewed
This overview has not been confirmed as current by the academy. Treat it as background reading and check the official source before relying on it.

For-hire carriers moving regulated freight across state lines, brokers and freight forwarders need operating authority (MC/FF/MX docket) in addition to a USDOT number. Registration moved to FMCSA's Motus system in May 2026.

Operating authority defines the type of operation (for-hire motor carrier, broker, freight forwarder) and is identified by an MC, FF or MX docket number. Authority becomes active only after the required filings — insurance (or, for brokers, a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund) and the BOC-3 process-agent designation — are accepted and any protest period has passed.

Motus. FMCSA launched Motus, its new registration system, in May 2026 (Federal Register notice of 29 April 2026, docket FMCSA-2026-1255); legacy Portal registration functions closed on 14 May 2026. Existing USDOT and docket numbers did not change, and Motus continues to issue MC/FF/MX docket numbers. USDOT number suffixes identify each registration inside Motus.

MC numbers are not abolished. FMCSA has proposed no longer assigning MC numbers so that the USDOT number becomes the sole identifier; that change is still under consideration. Several commercial websites wrongly report that MC numbers were eliminated — rely on FMCSA.

Brokers must not arrange transportation without active broker authority.

Official source: FMCSA

Educational information only. Requirements can change. Verify current requirements with the applicable government authority or qualified professional before acting.

Related regulatory updates
  • FMCSA registration modernisation / MC number changes
    Effective May 18, 2026
    Awaiting academy review Last reviewed: not yet reviewed
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