Do I Need an MC Number? The Complete 2026 Guide for Carriers, Brokers & New Trucking Businesses

If you’re launching a trucking company, expanding your carrier operations, or starting a freight brokerage in 2026, one of the most common questions you’ll face is:

“Do I need an MC Number?”

FMCSA regulations are not always easy to understand, so this guide breaks down who needs an MC Number, who doesn’t, and how to get one, with helpful links and compliance tips.

What Is an MC Number? (2026 Definition)

An MC Number (Motor Carrier Number) is a type of operating authority issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It allows your business to:

• Transport regulated commodities across state lines
• Operate as a for-hire interstate carrier
• Act as a freight broker or freight forwarder
• Transport passengers across state lines for compensation
  
  

A USDOT Number identifies your company; an MC Number identifies your authority to operate.

Do You Need an MC Number in 2026?

You must obtain an MC Number if:

✔ You transport regulated commodities across state lines

(See FMCSA authority guidance: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/get-mc-number-authority-operate )

✔ You operate as a for-hire interstate carrier

If you haul freight that belongs to others, MC authority is required.

✔ You’re a freight broker or freight forwarder

You must obtain broker authority(also issued as an MC Number).

✔ You transport passengers interstate for compensation

Passenger carriers also need MC authority.

 

Who Does Not Need an MC Number?

You typically do NOT need an MC Number if:

✘ You operate intrastate only

(Some states still require intrastate authority, so check your state’s rules.)

✘ You haul exempt commodities

Some agricultural and unprocessed materials are federally exempt.

✘ You are a private carrier transporting your own goods

 

MC Number vs. USDOT Number (Quick Comparison)

Requirement	USDOT Number	MC Number
Identifies your company	✔ Yes	✘ No
Grants operating authority	✘ No	✔ Yes
Required for interstate carriers	✔ Yes	✔ If for-hire
Required for brokers	✘ No	✔ Yes

 

How to Get an MC Number in 2026

1. Apply using the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS)

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/unified-registration-system

2. Pay the $300 filing fee

Each authority type requires its own fee.

3. Submit a BOC-3 (Designation of Process Agents)

Filed by a licensed process agent.

4. Have your insurer submit the BMC-91X filing

Confirms liability insurance.

5. Wait for FMCSA approval

Most authorities activate within 20–25 business days after all documents are received.

 

Common Mistakes New Carriers Make

❌ Applying for the wrong authority
❌ Forgetting BOC-3 or insurance filings
❌ Confusing intrastate vs. interstate rules
❌ Misunderstanding exempt vs. non-exempt commodities

 

Need Help Getting Your MC Number? Michaels Insurance Group Can Assist You

Michaels Insurance Group helps carriers, brokers, and freight companies nationwide with:

• MC Number / Operating Authority Setup
• USDOT Number Registration
• BOC-3 Filings
• FMCSA Compliance Guidance
• Insurance Requirements (BMC-91X, cargo, liability, etc.)

📞 Call us today:

386-274-8150
(631) 629-2233

💬 Or send us a message — our team is ready to help you get fully compliant and on the road.

 

Contact Us for Assistance

If you’re unsure whether your business needs a USDOT Number, an MC Number, or just want expert guidance on compliance and insurance, Michaels Insurance Group is here to help.

Get a FREE quote today:

📞 (631) 629-2233
📞 (386) 274-8150

Our experts will walk you through every step of the process and make sure your business is fully protected, compliant, and ready to operate.