How to Get Your Own Trucking Authority in Texas

Starting a trucking company in Texas can be complex — but with the right partner, it doesn't have to be. We've helped hundreds of Texas carriers start and grow successful trucking companies. Here's exactly what it takes.

Step 1: Form Your Business Entity

Before anything else, form your business. We recommend a Texas LLC for most small carriers:

LLC protects your personal assets from lawsuits against your company
Can save you money on taxes compared to a sole proprietorship
Required by many brokers and shippers before they'll work with you
EIN (Employer Identification Number) setup — included FREE with our packages
Texas Taxpayer Number — included FREE with our packages

Already have a DBA? We can help transfer your trucking authority to a new LLC.

Step 2: Get Your USDOT Number

All commercial carriers must obtain a USDOT number. This form must be updated every two years. We complete the 10-page MCS-150 application and ensure zero errors — because small mistakes can affect your insurance rates and DOT audits for years.

Learn more about USDOT numbers →

Step 3: Get Your MC Number (Interstate Carriers)

Before hauling interstate loads, you must obtain an MC number. This application is several pages long. Our team saves you time and ensures accuracy.

Interstate Timeline: Minimum 21 Days

FMCSA mandates a 21-day waiting period after filing before your MC authority becomes active. Plan accordingly — and don't let errors extend this further.

Learn more about MC numbers →

Step 4: File Your BOC-3

All truckers for hire must file a BOC-3 form with the FMCSA before authority will be issued. BOC-3 designates process agents (legal representatives) in every state where you operate. We file this immediately after your MC number.

Step 5: Get Insurance on File

Carriers must obtain Liability and Cargo insurance. You have 2 weeks after your MC/USDOT filing to get insurance on file or risk delays. We connect you with our partnered insurance carriers who understand new trucking authorities.

Recommended: $1,000,000 liability + $100,000 cargo
After 60 days without insurance: authority may be dismissed
After 1 year without insurance: must restart from scratch and repay all fees

Learn more about trucking insurance →

Step 6: TxDMV Number (Texas-Only Carriers)

If you pick up and deliver loads only within Texas, you need a TxDMV number instead of (or in addition to) an MC number. This is state-level authority issued by the Texas DMV.

Learn more about TxDMV numbers →

Additional Permits You May Need

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UCR Registration: Unified Carrier Registration — required for interstate carriers. Annual filing.

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IFTA Registration: International Fuel Tax Agreement — required if you cross state lines. Quarterly filings.

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IRP Apportioned Plates: Required for interstate travel. Allows you to pay registration fees across multiple states.

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KY Weight Distance Number: Required if your truck exceeds 59,999 lbs traveling in Kentucky.

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NY HUT Permit: New York Highway Use Tax — required for commercial vehicles over 18,000 lbs in NY.

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NM Weight Distance: Required for commercial vehicles over 26,000 lbs traveling in New Mexico.

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Drug Consortium Setup: FMCSA requires a drug & alcohol testing program for all commercial drivers.

How Long Does It Take?

Texas Intrastate Only

As fast as 1 week if you provide required info quickly.

Interstate (MC Authority)

Minimum 21 days due to mandatory FMCSA waiting period.

Most New Trucking Companies Make Mistakes

Errors on permit applications lead to costly fines, audit failures, and revoked authority. Our team has helped hundreds of Texas carriers start right — with zero mistakes from day one.