Getting Started
What does a brand-new carrier actually need?
Updated September 1, 2026
Starting a trucking business usually means working through a handful of registrations, in roughly this order. Not all of them apply to every operation.
- USDOT registration — identifies your company with FMCSA
- Operating authority (MC number) — only if you're hauling for-hire
- BOC-3 process agent filing — generally required alongside operating authority
- UCR — if you operate in interstate commerce
- A drug and alcohol testing program — if you have CDL drivers
- FMCSA Clearinghouse queries — before your first CDL driver starts
What comes after that
New carriers generally go through a safety monitoring period after authority is granted, which can include a New Entrant Safety Audit. Separately, if you run in multiple states you may also need IRP (apportioned plates), IFTA (quarterly fuel tax), Form 2290, and in a few states their own mileage permits.
If you're not sure which of these apply to your specific operation, enter your USDOT number on our status check and we'll tell you what we can see.
This is general orientation, not legal or regulatory advice. Requirements change and vary by operation — confirm specifics with the relevant agency or a qualified advisor before acting on them.
Still stuck?
Check your carrier record, or talk to a compliance specialist.