What insurance does a new carrier need?

Before FMCSA activates operating authority, your insurance must be on file. The required coverage depends on what you haul and how. For-hire motor carriers of property generally need public liability insurance at FMCSA's minimum levels, and your insurance provider must file the coverage directly with FMCSA.

What FMCSA requires on file

• Form BMC-91 or BMC-91X — public liability (bodily injury and property damage)
• Form BMC-34 — cargo insurance, for certain types of freight
• BOC-3 — process agent designation (not insurance, but required alongside authority)

Minimum liability amounts

Minimum requirements vary by operation type and what you haul. For general freight, the minimum is typically $750,000 in public liability. Hazardous materials and passenger operations have higher minimums. FMCSA's published requirements are the floor — many shippers and brokers require higher coverage.

Why authority doesn't activate until insurance is filed

Your insurance company files the coverage form directly with FMCSA on your behalf — you don't file it yourself. The authority stays pending until FMCSA shows it on record. Coordinating your insurance agent and the BOC-3 process agent filing before submitting your authority application is the cleanest way to minimize the wait.

After authority is active

Insurance must remain continuous. If your coverage lapses and your insurance company notifies FMCSA, your authority can be revoked. Staying current on insurance renewals and confirming FMCSA shows them is an ongoing obligation.