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For motor carriers and brokers across the United States, an MC number is more than just a registration requirement—it’s proof that your business is authorized, compliant, and ready to operate. Issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), this unique identifier plays a central role in regulating interstate transportation and ensuring that the safety standards are met.
Whether you’re starting a trucking business or managing an existing operation, knowing how to look up, verify, and maintain your MC number is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down how to check the status of the MC number. We’ll also cover what to look for during verification, including operating authority, compliance standing, and safety ratings—so you can operate with confidence and avoid costly compliance issues.
How to search for an MC number?
Finding or verifying an MC number is not complicated. Whether you prefer searching online or speaking directly with an FMCSA representative, there are multiple reliable ways to confirm a motor carrier’s registration and operating status.
Online tools for MC number lookup
Several trusted platforms allow you to look up MC numbers quickly using an internet-connected device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. These tools are commonly used by carriers, brokers, and shippers to confirm compliance with FMCSA regulations.
The most widely used resources include:
- FMCSA’s official Licensing & Insurance (L&I) system
- SAFER System
- National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA)
Each platform offers slightly different insights, so checking more than one source can help ensure accuracy.
To perform an online lookup, open the search page and locate the field labeled. Enter the MC number or company name and submit the search. You can check the “Authority Status” to see whether your operating authority is active, inactive, or pending.
- If the information is valid, the system will display key carrier details such as the legal business name, registered address, and operating authority status.
- If the results show missing or incorrect information, you must reach out to the FMCSA directly.
If your application is still under review, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the “Application Pending” link to track its progress. To view previous filings and status changes, use the “Authority History” link for a complete record of your application activity.
Online lookups are popular because they’re fast, convenient, and accessible at any time. However, not all third-party websites provide fully updated or verified data. To avoid errors, it’s best to rely on official sources or cross-check results before making business or compliance decisions. Some platforms may also charge a fee, so users seeking free access should confirm this upfront.
MC number lookup by phone
If you prefer direct assistance, you can request the MC number information by phone. Contact the FMCSA’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-832-5660 and follow the automated prompts to speak with a representative.
Be prepared to provide basic details such as your company name and location so the agent can locate your records quickly. This method can be helpful if you have specific questions or need clarification on your operating authority.
Calling the FMCSA offers the advantage of real-time support and personalized guidance. However, it may involve longer wait times compared to online searches, and additional verification may be required.
What to check when verifying your MC number?
Verifying your FMCSA MC number is an important step in confirming that your motor carrier authority is valid and compliant. When reviewing your details, there are several key areas you should always check to avoid operational or regulatory issues.
Start by confirming that the MC number is correctly assigned to your business and reflects your current company information. Any mismatch in name or details could signal outdated records that need to be updated with the FMCSA.
Next, review your operating authority status. This shows whether your company is legally authorized to operate as a motor carrier. An inactive or pending status may prevent you from hauling freight or working with brokers and shippers.
You should also check your compliance status, which indicates whether you are meeting FMCSA safety, insurance, and regulatory requirements. Non-compliance can lead to delays, penalties, or even loss of authority.
Finally, confirm that your MC number is active and not suspended, revoked, or expired. A valid active MC number will be displayed as “active” within the system. This status ensures that your business can operate without interruptions and remain in good standing with the FMCSA.
What does an active MC number mean?
An active MC number is a unique identifier issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to businesses authorized to operate as motor carriers or freight brokers. This number allows the FMCSA to track interstate transportation activity and ensure carriers comply with federal safety and operating regulations.
An active MC number confirms that a company has met all required conditions—such as insurance filings and regulatory approvals—and is legally permitted to operate across state lines.
It’s important to understand how active MC numbers differ from other statuses. Inactive MC numbers are no longer valid due to inactivity or unmet requirements. Revoked MC numbers have been officially canceled by the FMCSA, often because of serious compliance issues. Pending MC numbers, on the other hand, indicate that an application is still under review and has not yet been approved or denied.
Why is having an active MC number important?
An active MC number is essential for motor carriers and freight brokers operating under FMCSA regulations. Without it, a business is not legally authorized to transport goods or arrange freight, and operating without valid authority can lead to serious consequences. These may include fines, enforcement actions, or suspension of operations by the FMCSA.
Beyond regulatory risk, an inactive or missing MC number can damage your company’s credibility. Shippers, brokers, and partners often verify operating authority before doing business. If your MC number isn’t active, it can result in lost opportunities, reduced trust, and a direct impact on revenue.
Maintaining an active MC number also reflects your commitment to safety and compliance. To keep authority in good standing, the FMCSA requires carriers and brokers to meet ongoing standards, including proper insurance coverage, regular vehicle maintenance, qualified drivers, and adherence to hours-of-service rules.
How to get and keep your MC number active?
An active MC number is the foundation of operating legally as a motor carrier or broker. Without it, you can’t haul freight, work with brokers, or stay compliant with FMCSA rules.
Start by identifying your business type—motor carrier, freight forwarder, or broker—since each follows a different registration path. If you don’t already have one, you’ll also need a USDOT number, which acts as your company’s federal identifier.
Apply for your MC number through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS). You’ll submit basic business details, select your operation type, and pay the required filing fee online. Before your authority becomes active, you must meet all insurance and bonding requirements and file Form BOC-3 to designate process agents.
How to get an MC Number: A step-by-step guide
After submission, the FMCSA reviews your application and opens a short protest period. Once approved, your MC number becomes active and ready for use.
Staying compliant with an active MC number
Maintaining an active MC number is essential to running a reliable and compliant motor carrier or brokerage business. Understanding its role—and managing it correctly—helps you avoid regulatory setbacks while strengthening your company’s credibility in the transportation industry.
No matter which method you use to look up your MC number, always verify the information you receive. Confirm that the MC number matches the correct motor carrier, ensure the authority is approved by the FMCSA, and check that the operating status is active. Reviewing the carrier’s safety rating adds another layer of confidence that the business meets federal compliance standards.
Staying current with insurance requirements, safety regulations, and USDOT guidelines supports a satisfactory safety rating and long-term operational success. By taking a proactive approach to verification and compliance, you position your business for steady growth, stronger partnerships, and a trusted reputation on the road.
