How long does it take to get MC authority for a trucking company?

Who needs it: in general, carriers that haul federally regulated goods owned by others, for pay, in interstate commerce need operating authority (an MC number) in addition to a USDOT number. Private carriers hauling their own goods and carriers hauling only exempt goods do not.

Steps that set the timeline:

1. Choose the right authority type before you pay, since the $300 fee is not refunded.
2. Apply through Motus, FMCSA's online registration system, for your USDOT number and authority (Federal Register notice 2026-08334, April 29, 2026).
3. Get insurance quotes early. For for-hire carriers of non-hazardous property in vehicles rated 10,001 pounds or more, FMCSA's chart lists a $750,000 minimum, and your insurer files proof with FMCSA.
4. Check UCR registration and, for trucks with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more, IRS Form 2290.

The guide's other route is leasing onto an existing carrier instead of running under your own authority. Confirm current processing times on FMCSA's registration pages before you set a start date. General information, not legal advice.