The New Authority Checklist

Everything between applying for a USDOT number and hauling your first load under your own MC. Tick it off on screen or print it.

1. 1.Set up the business

   • Form your companySole proprietor, LLC, or corporation. An LLC keeps business debts apart from your personal ones.
   • Get an EINFree from the IRS. You need it for the bank account, IFTA, and Form 2290.
   • Open a business bank accountKeep fuel, repairs, and premiums separate from personal spending.

2. 2.Register with the FMCSA

   • Apply for your USDOT number and MC authorityThrough the FMCSA Unified Registration System. MC authority is needed to haul regulated freight for hire across state lines.
   • File a BOC-3Names a process agent in every state you operate in. A process agent company files it for you.
   • Register for UCRUnified Carrier Registration. Paid every year; the fee depends on fleet size.

3. 3.Get insured

   • Bind primary auto liabilityFederal minimum is $750,000 for general freight, but most brokers want $1,000,000. Your insurer files a BMC-91 or BMC-91X with the FMCSA.
   • Add motor truck cargoBrokers usually ask for $100,000. Reefer haulers should add reefer breakdown.
   • Add physical damageRequired by your lender if the truck is financed.
   • Ask for certificates of insuranceEvery broker and shipper will want one naming them as certificate holder.

4. 4.Plates, taxes, and permits

   • IRP apportioned platesFor interstate trucks over 26,000 lbs or with three or more axles. Apply in your base state.
   • IFTA fuel tax license and decalsSame thresholds as IRP. Quarterly fuel tax returns follow.
   • Form 2290 (Heavy Vehicle Use Tax)For trucks 55,000 lbs and over. You need the stamped Schedule 1 to register.
   • State permitsSome states charge their own weight-distance tax, including Kentucky, New Mexico, New York, and Oregon.

5. 5.Safety and drivers

   • Drug and alcohol programJoin a testing consortium, run a pre-employment test, and register in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse.
   • Driver qualification fileApplication, MVR, medical card, road test, and previous employer checks for every driver, including you.
   • ELDUse a registered electronic logging device unless you qualify for an exemption.
   • Prepare for the New Entrant Safety AuditFMCSA audits new carriers within the first 12 months. Keep logs, maintenance records, and driver files ready.

General guidance, not legal advice. Fees and thresholds change; confirm each step with the FMCSA, IRS, and your base state.