Getting your USDOT and/or MC Authority

Macias14606 · Oct 9, 2023

Todd727 said: ↑

First off, sorry for the long post. Don't read this if you already have your numbers and/or authority. You will be wasting your time.

I realize this probably gets hashed over multiple times, but I just recently added the MC number and thought there may be some valuable insights that could help someone else out, particularly when you face the onslaught of companies contacting you and offering to help you for a fee. In short, you don't need them.

Applying for USDOT number is fairly easy and straight forward. You will go to FMCSA.DOT.GOV and click the Registration TAB. You will create an account and you will need either an EIN or you can use your SSN. However, you need an EIN to file the IRS 2290 for heavy vehicle, so I’d recommend that you just get your EIN. You do not need a Process Agent or proof of insurance if you are just getting a USDOT without MC.

Now, on to the MC number. Again, you will go to the same website and create a registration or use your existing login for when you got your USDOT. For an MC number, you WILL need a Process Agent and you will eventually need proof of $750,000 liability insurance.

I used OOIDA for the Process Agent and filling of the BOC-3 form. It was simple, they know what they are doing and it was free as part of my membership. They also can answer questions about the timeline and when to actually purchase the insurance. It is recommended that you have the insurance lined up, but do not purchase it until you are very near the end of the Protest Period. When you apply for an MC number, your application is published, and the public has the chance to protest your application. This period is 10 days, but it typically takes about 20 days for FMCSA to issue your authority. With that in mind, around the 18th or 19th day is a good time to activate your insurance and have the insurance company send the information to the FMCSA.

Here is a link to a good FMCSA document that walks you through the entire process:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/2022-10/OP-1 Form.pdf

Ok, now here is the real point of why I’m writing all this; because your application is published, the entire world of compliance “helpers” will have access to your application, phone number(s) and email that you used to register. They will come after you like a pack of dogs offering services that your really don’t need. Finance, Factoring, Brokers, Compliance and Insurance companies will blow up your phone and email.

Be careful what email and phone you register with. You can always go back at a later time and update your registration with your primary phone and email.

Also, these companies will offer services that you do not need. For instance, when was notified by the FMCSA that my authority was approved, I had companies contacting me, offering to get me an expedited copy of the letter so that I didn’t have to wait for it to come in the mail.

The thing is, your letter is published by the FMCSA and you can download it yourself from the daily register; Daily Decisions | FMCSA Every authority letter issued on that day will be in the file, so you will have to search for your DOT number to find your letters which you can save and print and be on your way before the letter arrives in the mail. The company that contacted me wanted to charge me $25 for what I did in a couple of minutes for free.

Just this morning (1/3/2023), I had someone contact (call AND email) me from DOT Compliance Group and tell me that my number wasn’t active. The truth is my MC went active 12/28 and I’d downloaded my letters, plus I received the letters from FMCSA on 12/31. However, I get a “scary” email telling me that I’m not active, quoting regulations and providing a link to “Update Operating Status” for a fee. They also were kind enough to offer to file my UCR for $199.

Filing a UCR Registration at UCR.GOV takes a couple of minutes and costs me $42.22 for two vehicles. Oh yeah, that letter from the company said mine was due, which it is not. I guarantee that they would’ve pocketed the $199 if I didn't know better.

In short, outside of getting a Process Agent and sending in the insurance paperwork, you can do EVERYTHING yourself. Beware of these companies offering to “help.”
Click to expand...

Todd727 said: ↑

First off, sorry for the long post. Don't read this if you already have your numbers and/or authority. You will be wasting your time.

I realize this probably gets hashed over multiple times, but I just recently added the MC number and thought there may be some valuable insights that could help someone else out, particularly when you face the onslaught of companies contacting you and offering to help you for a fee. In short, you don't need them.

Applying for USDOT number is fairly easy and straight forward. You will go to FMCSA.DOT.GOV and click the Registration TAB. You will create an account and you will need either an EIN or you can use your SSN. However, you need an EIN to file the IRS 2290 for heavy vehicle, so I’d recommend that you just get your EIN. You do not need a Process Agent or proof of insurance if you are just getting a USDOT without MC.

Now, on to the MC number. Again, you will go to the same website and create a registration or use your existing login for when you got your USDOT. For an MC number, you WILL need a Process Agent and you will eventually need proof of $750,000 liability insurance.

I used OOIDA for the Process Agent and filling of the BOC-3 form. It was simple, they know what they are doing and it was free as part of my membership. They also can answer questions about the timeline and when to actually purchase the insurance. It is recommended that you have the insurance lined up, but do not purchase it until you are very near the end of the Protest Period. When you apply for an MC number, your application is published, and the public has the chance to protest your application. This period is 10 days, but it typically takes about 20 days for FMCSA to issue your authority. With that in mind, around the 18th or 19th day is a good time to activate your insurance and have the insurance company send the information to the FMCSA.

Here is a link to a good FMCSA document that walks you through the entire process:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/2022-10/OP-1 Form.pdf

Ok, now here is the real point of why I’m writing all this; because your application is published, the entire world of compliance “helpers” will have access to your application, phone number(s) and email that you used to register. They will come after you like a pack of dogs offering services that your really don’t need. Finance, Factoring, Brokers, Compliance and Insurance companies will blow up your phone and email.

Be careful what email and phone you register with. You can always go back at a later time and update your registration with your primary phone and email.

Also, these companies will offer services that you do not need. For instance, when was notified by the FMCSA that my authority was approved, I had companies contacting me, offering to get me an expedited copy of the letter so that I didn’t have to wait for it to come in the mail.

The thing is, your letter is published by the FMCSA and you can download it yourself from the daily register; Daily Decisions | FMCSA Every authority letter issued on that day will be in the file, so you will have to search for your DOT number to find your letters which you can save and print and be on your way before the letter arrives in the mail. The company that contacted me wanted to charge me $25 for what I did in a couple of minutes for free.

Just this morning (1/3/2023), I had someone contact (call AND email) me from DOT Compliance Group and tell me that my number wasn’t active. The truth is my MC went active 12/28 and I’d downloaded my letters, plus I received the letters from FMCSA on 12/31. However, I get a “scary” email telling me that I’m not active, quoting regulations and providing a link to “Update Operating Status” for a fee. They also were kind enough to offer to file my UCR for $199.

Filing a UCR Registration at UCR.GOV takes a couple of minutes and costs me $42.22 for two vehicles. Oh yeah, that letter from the company said mine was due, which it is not. I guarantee that they would’ve pocketed the $199 if I didn't know better.

In short, outside of getting a Process Agent and sending in the insurance paperwork, you can do EVERYTHING yourself. Beware of these companies offering to “help.”
Click to expand...

TinMacias · Oct 9, 2023

Todd727 said: ↑

First off, sorry for the long post. Don't read this if you already have your numbers and/or authority. You will be wasting your time.

I realize this probably gets hashed over multiple times, but I just recently added the MC number and thought there may be some valuable insights that could help someone else out, particularly when you face the onslaught of companies contacting you and offering to help you for a fee. In short, you don't need them.

Applying for USDOT number is fairly easy and straight forward. You will go to FMCSA.DOT.GOV and click the Registration TAB. You will create an account and you will need either an EIN or you can use your SSN. However, you need an EIN to file the IRS 2290 for heavy vehicle, so I’d recommend that you just get your EIN. You do not need a Process Agent or proof of insurance if you are just getting a USDOT without MC.

Now, on to the MC number. Again, you will go to the same website and create a registration or use your existing login for when you got your USDOT. For an MC number, you WILL need a Process Agent and you will eventually need proof of $750,000 liability insurance.

I used OOIDA for the Process Agent and filling of the BOC-3 form. It was simple, they know what they are doing and it was free as part of my membership. They also can answer questions about the timeline and when to actually purchase the insurance. It is recommended that you have the insurance lined up, but do not purchase it until you are very near the end of the Protest Period. When you apply for an MC number, your application is published, and the public has the chance to protest your application. This period is 10 days, but it typically takes about 20 days for FMCSA to issue your authority. With that in mind, around the 18th or 19th day is a good time to activate your insurance and have the insurance company send the information to the FMCSA.

Here is a link to a good FMCSA document that walks you through the entire process:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/2022-10/OP-1 Form.pdf

Ok, now here is the real point of why I’m writing all this; because your application is published, the entire world of compliance “helpers” will have access to your application, phone number(s) and email that you used to register. They will come after you like a pack of dogs offering services that your really don’t need. Finance, Factoring, Brokers, Compliance and Insurance companies will blow up your phone and email.

Be careful what email and phone you register with. You can always go back at a later time and update your registration with your primary phone and email.

Also, these companies will offer services that you do not need. For instance, when was notified by the FMCSA that my authority was approved, I had companies contacting me, offering to get me an expedited copy of the letter so that I didn’t have to wait for it to come in the mail.

The thing is, your letter is published by the FMCSA and you can download it yourself from the daily register; Daily Decisions | FMCSA Every authority letter issued on that day will be in the file, so you will have to search for your DOT number to find your letters which you can save and print and be on your way before the letter arrives in the mail. The company that contacted me wanted to charge me $25 for what I did in a couple of minutes for free.

Just this morning (1/3/2023), I had someone contact (call AND email) me from DOT Compliance Group and tell me that my number wasn’t active. The truth is my MC went active 12/28 and I’d downloaded my letters, plus I received the letters from FMCSA on 12/31. However, I get a “scary” email telling me that I’m not active, quoting regulations and providing a link to “Update Operating Status” for a fee. They also were kind enough to offer to file my UCR for $199.

Filing a UCR Registration at UCR.GOV takes a couple of minutes and costs me $42.22 for two vehicles. Oh yeah, that letter from the company said mine was due, which it is not. I guarantee that they would’ve pocketed the $199 if I didn't know better.

In short, outside of getting a Process Agent and sending in the insurance paperwork, you can do EVERYTHING yourself. Beware of these companies offering to “help.”
Click to expand...

Thanks for this. I have an EIN number now and just bought my truck but have not received the title to transfer it into my name yet. Hopefully it comes in sometime this week. Does the truck need to be in my name before I apply for DOT number and MC number? Also, on the part of the MC registration there’s a section where it’s asking what I will be hauling. I will be doing power only right now and since I really don’t know yet what exactly I will be hauling should I choose the majority of them? But what if I don’t choose one and I have the opportunity to haul it, will I be able to go in and add it or how does that work?

Todd727 · Oct 9, 2023

TinMacias said: ↑

Thanks for this. I have an EIN number now and just bought my truck but have not received the title to transfer it into my name yet. Hopefully it comes in sometime this week. Does the truck need to be in my name before I apply for DOT number and MC number? Also, on the part of the MC registration there’s a section where it’s asking what I will be hauling. I will be doing power only right now and since I really don’t know yet what exactly I will be hauling should I choose the majority of them? But what if I don’t choose one and I have the opportunity to haul it, will I be able to go in and add it or how does that work?
Click to expand...

You can always go back and change it by doing an update to your MCS-150. Pick the most likely freight now, so you won't have to mess with it. Probably, for you, I'd pick everything except the really specialized stuff (eg. mobile homes, passengers, etc.)

Yes, wait until the truck is in your name, they will ask for a title number at the DMV, at least mine did.

TinMacias · Oct 9, 2023

Okay sweet. Thanks for the info. I really appreciate it. I just want to make sure I do everything correctly so I don’t have to re-file. One last thing, do you know if I have to do all my process agent and BOC-3 filings at time of registration or can I add them later. I was thing of doing just my neighboring states for now but I’m not sure how that works either.

Todd727 · Oct 9, 2023

TinMacias said: ↑

Okay sweet. Thanks for the info. I really appreciate it. I just want to make sure I do everything correctly so I don’t have to re-file. One last thing, do you know if I have to do all my process agent and BOC-3 filings at time of registration or can I add them later. I was thing of doing just my neighboring states for now but I’m not sure how that works either.
Click to expand...

I went through OOIDA and used their process agent. I don't exactly remember setting up individual states, so either that wasn't part of it or we just did the lower 48. I'll go back and see if I can find anything.

I know with IFTA/IRP you used to have to pick states, now you just set up the entire country and when you file, you only report the states you operated in and bought fuel in.

TinMacias · Oct 9, 2023

Todd727 said: ↑

I went through OOIDA and used their process agent. I don't exactly remember setting up individual states, so either that wasn't part of it or we just did the lower 48. I'll go back and see if I can find anything.

I know with IFTA/IRP you used to have to pick states, now you just set up the entire country and when you file, you only report the states you operated in and bought fuel in.
Click to expand...

Okay I’ll ask them as well. Looking at getting quotes this week for insurance. Thanks again for your help.

Todd727 · Oct 9, 2023

TinMacias said: ↑

Okay I’ll ask them as well. Looking at getting quotes this week for insurance. Thanks again for your help.
Click to expand...

OOIDA made it simple. Progressive usually isn't bad the first year for insurance and they are easy to get set up. After that, you have to watch them closely because they can inflate the rates quickly.

Oh, I dealt with a lady named April at OOIDA. Super nice and very responsive. If you don't already belong, they are worth it for help getting set up and dealing with your new entry audit when that comes up later with the FMCSA.

TinMacias · Oct 9, 2023

Awesome! I’ll give them a call and see what they can do for me.

jaxtrucker · Jul 26, 2024

Todd727 said: ↑

First off, sorry for the long post. Don't read this if you already have your numbers and/or authority. You will be wasting your time.

I realize this probably gets hashed over multiple times, but I just recently added the MC number and thought there may be some valuable insights that could help someone else out, particularly when you face the onslaught of companies contacting you and offering to help you for a fee. In short, you don't need them.

Applying for USDOT number is fairly easy and straight forward. You will go to FMCSA.DOT.GOV and click the Registration TAB. You will create an account and you will need either an EIN or you can use your SSN. However, you need an EIN to file the IRS 2290 for heavy vehicle, so I’d recommend that you just get your EIN. You do not need a Process Agent or proof of insurance if you are just getting a USDOT without MC.

Now, on to the MC number. Again, you will go to the same website and create a registration or use your existing login for when you got your USDOT. For an MC number, you WILL need a Process Agent and you will eventually need proof of $750,000 liability insurance.

I used OOIDA for the Process Agent and filling of the BOC-3 form. It was simple, they know what they are doing and it was free as part of my membership. They also can answer questions about the timeline and when to actually purchase the insurance. It is recommended that you have the insurance lined up, but do not purchase it until you are very near the end of the Protest Period. When you apply for an MC number, your application is published, and the public has the chance to protest your application. This period is 10 days, but it typically takes about 20 days for FMCSA to issue your authority. With that in mind, around the 18th or 19th day is a good time to activate your insurance and have the insurance company send the information to the FMCSA.

Here is a link to a good FMCSA document that walks you through the entire process:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/2022-10/OP-1 Form.pdf

Ok, now here is the real point of why I’m writing all this; because your application is published, the entire world of compliance “helpers” will have access to your application, phone number(s) and email that you used to register. They will come after you like a pack of dogs offering services that your really don’t need. Finance, Factoring, Brokers, Compliance and Insurance companies will blow up your phone and email.

Be careful what email and phone you register with. You can always go back at a later time and update your registration with your primary phone and email.

Also, these companies will offer services that you do not need. For instance, when was notified by the FMCSA that my authority was approved, I had companies contacting me, offering to get me an expedited copy of the letter so that I didn’t have to wait for it to come in the mail.

The thing is, your letter is published by the FMCSA and you can download it yourself from the daily register; Daily Decisions | FMCSA Every authority letter issued on that day will be in the file, so you will have to search for your DOT number to find your letters which you can save and print and be on your way before the letter arrives in the mail. The company that contacted me wanted to charge me $25 for what I did in a couple of minutes for free.

Just this morning (1/3/2023), I had someone contact (call AND email) me from DOT Compliance Group and tell me that my number wasn’t active. The truth is my MC went active 12/28 and I’d downloaded my letters, plus I received the letters from FMCSA on 12/31. However, I get a “scary” email telling me that I’m not active, quoting regulations and providing a link to “Update Operating Status” for a fee. They also were kind enough to offer to file my UCR for $199.

Filing a UCR Registration at UCR.GOV takes a couple of minutes and costs me $42.22 for two vehicles. Oh yeah, that letter from the company said mine was due, which it is not. I guarantee that they would’ve pocketed the $199 if I didn't know better.

In short, outside of getting a Process Agent and sending in the insurance paperwork, you can do EVERYTHING yourself. Beware of these companies offering to “help.”
Click to expand...

jaxtrucker · Jul 26, 2024

Very good info. I also stumbled on this youtube video that really helped some friends of mine that recently started their authority.

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