BMC-90B Filing Made Simple
What is BMC-90B?
BMC-90B is a certification your insurance provider files with the FMCSA to confirm you meet public liability insurance requirements. It proves your policy includes the MCS-90B endorsement, which covers: - Bodily injury - Property damage - Environmental restoration Filed electronically through the FMCSA’s Licensing & Insurance Portal, the BMC-90B links your insurance coverage directly to your operating authority.
You need BMC-90B if you’re a for-hire passenger carrier operating in interstate commerce. This includes:
- Charter bus companies
- Scheduled shuttle services
- Tour bus operators
- Van services crossing state lines
- Any carrier transporting passengers for compensation between states
Even if you have an insurance policy, your FMCSA authority will stay inactive until your -90b form is filed and approved.
BMC-90B filing happens before you get FMCSA approval to operate as a for-hire passenger carrier. It’s also required anytime you:
- Apply for new FMCSA operating authority (new MC number)
- Switch insurance providers
- Change your policy terms or limits
- Renew coverage to prevent lapses
- Start operations that cross state lines
If your insurance changes or your authority is new, your insurer must submit a fresh BMC-90B filing to FMCSA.
Not every passenger carrier needs to file BMC-90B. You’re exempt if:
- You’re a private transportation provider (not for-hire)
- You operate only within a single state
- You transport exempt passengers, like certain school or religious groups
- Your operation falls outside FMCSA’s public liability rules
If you’re unsure whether you need a BMC-90B, check your FMCSA status or contact your insurance provider.
You cannot file the BMC-90B yourself and only your insurance provider can handle the filing.
Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Get Public Liability Insurance. Work with an FMCSA-approved insurance provider, and make sure your policy includes an MCS-90B endorsement (mandatory for BMC-90B filing).
Step 2: Request the BMC-90B Certification. Provide your insurer with your MC number, your USDOT number, your NAIC insurance company code, and the policy details and coverage limits. The insurer prepares the BMC-90B form with all the required information.
Step 3: File Electronically with FMCSA. Your insurer submits the BMC-90B through FMCSA’s Licensing & Insurance Portal, and you must verify your filing status to confirm it’s marked active. Always keep copies of the filing confirmation for your records.
Your liability coverage must meet FMCSA minimums, based on your vehicle size, which includes bodily injury, property damage, and environmental restoration costs.
| Vehicle Capacity | Minimum Coverage |
|---|---|
| 15 passengers or fewer | $1,500,000 |
| 16 passengers or more | $5,000,000 |
If your coverage falls below these limits, your BMC-90B filing will be rejected.
There’s no FMCSA fee to file Form BMC-90B. Your insurance provider submits it electronically at no direct cost to you.
The real cost comes from the required public liability insurance policy, which covers passenger injuries, property damage, and environmental restoration. Your premium will vary based on your operation, vehicle size, and risk profile.
Some insurers may also charge admin fees for processing the BMC-90B, especially when making changes or renewing your policy. Fees vary by provider.
Skipping the BMC-90B has serious consequences and the FMCSA can:
- Suspend or revoke your operating authority
- Block you from crossing state lines
- Issue fines for non-compliance
- Leave you exposed to massive liability in case of an accident
If your BMC-90B filing lapses, your business could face immediate disruption, so make sure your insurer keeps it current.
Questions About BMC-90B? We’ve Got Answers
What is Form BMC-90B?
Form BMC-90B is a liability insurance certification your insurance provider files with FMCSA. It confirms that your passenger carrier has public liability coverage and an active MCS-90B endorsement.
Is BMC-90B an insurance policy?
No. BMC-90B is not an insurance policy. It’s a filing that proves your insurance policy includes federally compliant liability coverage.
Can I file BMC-90B myself?
No. Only your insurance company can file the bmc-90b form electronically through FMCSA’s Licensing & Insurance Portal. Your role is to provide your insurer with your MC number, DOT number, and policy details, and verify that the filing is completed and active
What’s the difference between MCS-90B and BMC-90B?
MCS-90B is the endorsement added to your insurance policy. BMC-90B is the form your insurer files with the FMCSA to confirm that endorsement is in place.
Both are required to stay compliant with FMCSA passenger carrier regulations.
What happens if my insurance is canceled or changed?
Your new insurer must file a fresh BMC-90b form with FMCSA. If this isn’t done, your operating authority could be suspended.
Do intrastate carriers need BMC‑90B?
Usually, not. If you’re only operating inside one state, you typically don’t need to file the BMC‑90B. That said, always double-check with the FMCSA or your insurance provider to be sure.
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