Trucking dictionary
MC number
MC number: An MC number is the docket number FMCSA assigns with interstate operating authority. Carriers that haul federally regulated freight owned by others, for pay, across state lines generally need operating authority in addition to a USDOT number. Authority is identified as an MC, FF or MX number depending on its type.
Who needs operating authority
FMCSA says companies generally need interstate operating authority, in addition to a USDOT number, if they transport federally regulated commodities owned by others, or arrange their transport, for a fee in interstate commerce, or transport passengers for pay. Carriers that don't need it include private carriers hauling their own cargo, for-hire carriers hauling only exempt commodities, and carriers operating only within certain exempt commercial zones.
Source: FMCSA, Get Operating Authority (Docket Number), and FMCSA FAQ on MC Numbers (last updated May 21, 2026) · checked 2026-10
- USDOT number
- Identifies the company; safety record
- MC number
- Identifies the operating authority
- For-hire interstate, regulated freight
- Usually both
- Private carrier, own cargo
- USDOT only
- Authority filing fee
- $300
- Status check
- FMCSA Licensing and Insurance
Fee from FMCSA's operating authority page, checked October 2026.
Are MC numbers going away?
Not yet. FMCSA's FAQ, last updated May 21, 2026, says the agency is considering phasing out MC numbers, with each type of authority shown as a suffix to the USDOT number instead. It also says existing MC numbers would not be replaced by USDOT numbers. As of October 2026, FMCSA still lists MC, FF and MX docket numbers on its operating authority page. Check FMCSA before relying on any change.
Source: FMCSA FAQ: If FMCSA stops issuing MC Numbers, will existing MC Numbers be replaced by USDOT Numbers? · checked 2026-10
In practice
Brokers check your MC number and authority status before they book you, and your MC goes on the carrier packet and every rate con. A new MC is also what some brokers screen out: many have a minimum authority age. Our new authority checklist covers the first months, and new authority dispatch is built around brokers that work with new MCs.
How much does an MC number cost?
FMCSA's filing fee for permanent operating authority is $300 per authority type. Insurance filings and a BOC-3 process agent filing are also needed before the authority becomes active. See how to start a trucking company.
What's the difference between an MC and a USDOT number?
The USDOT number identifies your company and its safety record. The MC number identifies the operating authority you hold. Most for-hire interstate carriers have both.
Steve Woods · Lead Dispatcher, TruckSprint
Steve Woods leads the TruckSprint dispatch desk and reviews every guide we publish. How we research and update guides.
Updated October 2026