FMCSA Authority

Whether you’re a broker or a carrier, you can rely on DAT Authority to handle your FMCSA paperwork.

Want to get your FMCSA broker authority, MC authority, or Common Carrier authority? Here are the steps you need to take. Have questions? Contact the experts at DAT Authority.

  • Discover why DAT Authority is the trusted expert on FMCSA authority.
  • Apply for your FMCSA MC authority the easy way.
  • Secure the right type of FMCSA authority for your business.
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Truck Driving Team

Discover why DAT Authority is the trusted expert on FMCSA authority.

There’s a lot of paperwork involved in starting a carrier or broker service. DAT Authority specializes in preparing authority registration with minimal delays.

At DAT, it’s our job to make your life easier. Starting a business is a complicated process, so why not leave it to the experts? We specialize in the authority application process that way you can focus on running your business while we make sure you’re properly licensed.

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Apply for your FMCSA MC authority the easy way.

We make sure your motor carrier authority application is double-checked for accuracy.

Every broker and carrier is required to apply for an MC number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration before they can start moving and brokering loads. The process takes several weeks, and errors or improperly filled forms can cause your application to be rejected. With DAT Authority on your side, though, there’s no need to worry about rejected registrations or other hassles.

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Truck Driver Leaning Out Of Cab

Get the right type of FMCSA authority for your business.

Then once the paperwork has been taken care of, check out DAT’s load boards to start finding and posting loads.

The experts at DAT Authority are standing by to help you apply for the specific authorities you need for your business. We assist with everything from your FMCSA broker authority search to your FMCSA common carrier authority application, IFTA tax registration, and more.

Plus, when you enroll in the DAT Authority program, you’ll also get one free trial month of DAT’s load boards, which includes access to our popular mobile app.

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"Some say it's simple to get your authority, and that you should save your money and do it yourself. Other people, including myself, are not sure where to even begin. I used a service provided by DAT to get my authority. It was important to me that it was done right the first time, by people who have done this before."

- Chad Boblett - Boblett Brothers Trucking

"They took me by the hand an led me through all of the diffiult and confusing steps to ensure that I started off on the right food. I cannot say it any clearer than these folks know what it's all about."

- Gregg Knight, LTL Trucking

  • FMCSA authority is permission from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for brokers and carriers to ship or facilitate the transportation of goods across state lines. Brokers also need to apply for a freight forwarder (FF) number from the FMCSA, and both carriers and brokers will need to apply for a DOT number from the U.S. Department of Transportation, as well.

  • DAT Authority offers service packages designed specifically for brokers and carriers alike, starting at $549 per year. This includes all your federal application fees, your MC and USDOT number applications, your process agents, and your Unified Carrier Registration Agreement (UCRA). You can request information about our different DAT Authority packages here or call us at 866.265.3172.

  • All told, the process of applying for FMCSA authority will typically take between five and seven weeks. This is a long time, which is why it is crucial that your paperwork be accurately and properly prepared. Without DAT Authority, your application could be rejected, which leads to further costly delays.

  • The FMCSA authority process includes selecting process agents (form BOC-3) — legal representatives who are able to receive summons on your behalf in each state where you plan to operate. Brokers also need a fund or bond of $75,000 or more to act as insurance. Some states and local municipalities may also require additional permits.

  • Our teams are ready and able to handle all your registration paperwork — including whatever local permits may apply to your business. We include the FMCSA processing fee in our annual service charge, but currently we do not pay for local registration fees.

  • Yes! Once you have your FMCSA authority in hand, you’ll receive a 10% discount on DAT’s load boards, where you’ll have unlimited load postings and truck searching, see the volatility of truckload markets, get average rate data, and more. We also offer a transportation management system specifically for brokers that can help make operational logistics more efficient. Discover the DAT difference today.

Ready to take the first step?

When you work with DAT Authority, we won't just help you file your paperwork - you'll also gain a trusted advisor to help get your business on the right track, fast and easy. Run your business with confidence - choose a DAT Authority package that best fits your needs, or give us a call at 866-265-3172.

Authority: Basic

$549*
  • Includes all federal fees
  • MC / DOT number
  • BOC 3 process agents
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