Back to Blog
Entering the trucking and transportation industry can feel like stepping into a maze of rules, regulations, and paperwork. Among the most important—and often confusing—requirements for new carriers are obtaining a DOT (Department of Transportation) number and an MC (Motor Carrier) number. In layman’s terms, think of these numbers as your company’s legal passport, as without getting them, you are not allowed to legally operate trucks on the road in the U.S. As a consequence, you risk penalties, fines, or even losing operating authority.
One of the first questions every new motor carrier asks is: “How much will it really cost to get an MC number?” Spoiler alert: the $300 FMCSA application fee is just the beginning. Once you factor in insurance, BOC-3 filings, compliance requirements, and ongoing expenses, your total cost can add up quickly.
In this guide, you’ll see exactly what you’ll pay to get your MC authority — and what it costs to keep it active.
How much does an MC number cost?
Obtaining an MC (Motor Carrier) number requires a mandatory federal fee of $300, paid directly to the FMCSA during the application process.
Each type of Operating Authority carries its one-time fee of $300. If you apply for multiple authorities, you’ll pay $300 for each one. For example, applying for both Passenger Authority and Household Goods Authority would cost $600 total. You can submit these payments together during the same filing.
However, if you are applying for two authorities within the same category—such as common and contract carrier authority for property—only one $300 fee is required. Please note that all filing fees are non-refundable.
MC authority costs: Fees and ongoing expenses
The $300 FMCSA application fee is only one part of the total cost of getting your MC authority. Additional filings, insurance requirements, and operational expenses can quickly add up to increase overall expenses. Most carriers spend between $500 and $1,500+ upfront, depending on their level of preparedness and whether they use third-party or professional services.
It’s also important to note that state-level permits or registrations may be required in addition to federal authority, which can further increase total costs.
Here’s a breakdown of the core MC authority expenses and key considerations:
- Application fee: Each type of operating authority requires a $300 fee paid to the FMCSA. If you apply for multiple authorities, the fee must be paid separately for each.
- Processing time: FMCSA typically processes applications within 20–25 business days. Expedited processing is not available, so plan accordingly.
- Reactivation or name changes: If your authority is revoked due to non-compliance, reinstatement costs $80. Filing a name change requires an additional $14 fee.
Factors that affect the total cost of an MC number
The $300 FMCSA application fee is only the starting point. Several additional factors influence how much you’ll actually spend to activate, operate, and maintain your MC authority. Beyond the initial setup, you also need to budget for ongoing compliance and operational costs. While obtaining MC authority requires an upfront investment, setting it up correctly from the beginning helps avoid costly delays, penalties, and reinstatement fees down the road.
Below are the key factors that determine the true cost of an MC number:
1. Type of Operating Authority requested
Each type of operating authority has its own $300 FMCSA filing fee. As mentioned earlier, applying for multiple authority types—such as Passenger Authority and Household Goods Authority—attracts separate fees for each.
2. Insurance requirements
Insurance is one of the largest ongoing expenses for motor carriers. To activate your MC number, proof of insurance must be filed with the FMCSA. The cost of coverage depends on several factors, including:
- Type of cargo hauled
- Operating distance
- Driving and safety history
- Number of vehicles in your fleet
Annual insurance premiums can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, making this a major cost consideration for new carriers.
3. BOC-3 filing
A BOC-3 filing is required to designate a process agent in every state where you operate. This filing must be completed before your MC authority becomes active. While it is relatively inexpensive—typically costing $25 to $50, depending on the provider—it is mandatory for compliance.
4. Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
After receiving your MC number, you must register under the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program. UCR fees are based on the number of vehicles in your fleet and must be renewed annually, adding to your ongoing compliance costs.
File Your UCR Now and Stay Compliant!
5. State-specific permits and fees
In addition to federal authority, some states require additional permits or registrations to operate legally within their borders. These state-level requirements can add to both upfront and recurring costs, depending on where you operate.
6. Operational and business expenses
Beyond regulatory filings, you must account for the everyday costs of running a trucking business. These include:
- Fuel and vehicle maintenance
- Driver wages and benefits
- Tolls and travel-related expenses
These operational costs vary widely but play a significant role in overall profitability.
7. Legal and consulting services
Some carriers choose to work with professionals to ensure their applications and filings are completed correctly. While optional, legal or consulting services can add to the total cost, they can help prevent mistakes that lead to delays or penalties.
8. Reactivating or reinstating an MC number
An MC number may be deactivated due to issues such as missing insurance, an inactive DOT number, or an incomplete BOC-3 filing. Reinstating a revoked MC authority costs $80. However, if the carrier is placed out of service, reinstatement becomes more complex. In some cases, you may need to reapply as a new entrant, which includes paying the $300 application fee again.
Planning ahead: Fees and expenses for your MC number
Getting your MC number isn’t just another box to check — it’s what allows you to operate legally and stay compliant from day one. While the $300 application fee gets most of the attention, the real cost also includes insurance, filings, state permits, and ongoing operating expenses.
Planning for these costs ahead of time helps you avoid delays, rejected applications, and unnecessary penalties.
When you understand the fees, requirements, and ongoing maintenance involved, the process becomes much easier to manage. Set your MC authority up correctly from the start, and you’ll be in a stronger position to run smoothly, stay compliant, and focus on growing your business.
