TxDMV Number Authority

What Is a TxDMV Number?

A TxDMV number is mandatory for a trucking company that operates commercial vehicles to pick up and haul cargo only within Texas. It is mandated by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) — not the FMCSA — and should not be confused with a USDOT number.

Key Distinction

TxDMV = Texas intrastate carriers only. USDOT = all commercial carriers, including interstate. Many Texas carriers need both. Contact us and we'll determine exactly which numbers you need.

Who Needs a TxDMV Number?

Operating a CMV with GVWR over 26,000 lbs picking up and delivering within Texas
Transporting passengers for hire within Texas (9+ passengers)
Operating intrastate as a for-hire motor carrier
Any combination of vehicles exceeding 26,000 lbs GVWR operating intrastate

What We Handle For You

Like every step of starting your trucking company, we take care of all the paperwork and keep your company on the road.

Determine if you need a TxDMV number for your specific operation
Complete and file your TxDMV application accurately
Help you find an insurance company that meets TxDMV requirements
Coordinate Form E filing with your insurance carrier
Ensure compliance with Texas DMV regulations throughout
Get your USDOT number simultaneously if needed

⚠️ Truck + Insurance Required to Activate

We cannot fully complete and activate your TxDMV number without a truck and insurance on file. However, we can get your USDOT number started while you finalize your truck situation.

TxDMV vs USDOT — Quick Comparison

Feature	TxDMV Number	USDOT Number
Issued By	Texas DMV	FMCSA (Federal)
Operations	Texas intrastate only	Interstate + intrastate
Required For	Texas for-hire carriers	Most commercial vehicles
Biennial Update	No	Yes, every 2 years

FAQs

Possibly. If you haul loads both within Texas and across state lines, you may need both. The TxDMV is specifically for intrastate Texas operations. We will help you determine exactly what you need.

Texas-only intrastate authority can be completed in as little as 1 week (versus 21+ days for interstate MC authority). However, it depends on how quickly you can provide required information.

Yes. As your business grows and you want to haul interstate, we can help you get your MC number and USDOT number to expand your authority.