Compliance FAQ
How much does it cost to get MC authority?
The FMCSA application fee for Form OP-1 is $300 - the same fee for motor carrier, broker, and freight forwarder authority. On top of the $300, factor in $75 for the BOC-3 process-agent designation, the Form 2290 heavy vehicle use tax (if running 55,000+ lb GVW vehicles), and the underlying insurance premiums (highly variable). A USDOT number is free. Fast Trucking Compliance's price is itemized as two separate amounts: $199 service fee + $300 FMCSA fee ($499 total).
Reviewed by Korey Sharp-Paar · Updated
Why does it matter?
The FMCSA itself charges a flat $300 to process Form OP-1, OP-1(P), or OP-1(FF) - there is no volume discount or tier. The fee is paid at submission and is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
The BOC-3 process-agent designation is required before authority activates. A BOC-3 through Fast Trucking Compliance is $75 one-time for blanket coverage in every state. Whichever provider you use, a BOC-3 is mandatory.
Insurance is the largest cost variable. Property motor carriers need $750,000 in BMC-91X liability minimum; HHG movers need $5,000 in BMC-34 cargo. Premiums vary widely with carrier history, equipment, and operating radius - typical owner-operator quotes land between $8,000 and $20,000/year.
Optional additional costs: USDOT new-entrant safety audit prep, IRP/IFTA registration, ELD device, drug-and-alcohol testing program enrollment, and Form 2290 HVUT if vehicles are 55,000+ lbs GVW. None are charged by FMCSA but all are typically paid in the first 90 days of operation.
We prepare your USDOT number and MC operating-authority application; it is submitted to FMCSA in Motus by you or a filer you authorize. Fast Trucking Compliance's price is itemized as two separate amounts: $199 service fee + $300 FMCSA fee ($499 total).
Start your USDOT and MC authority application
We prepare your USDOT number and MC operating-authority application; it is submitted to FMCSA in Motus by you or a filer you authorize. FMCSA charges a $300 application fee for each operating authority type (49 CFR 360.3T); a USDOT number is free. Our $199 service fee and the $300 FMCSA fee are itemized as two separate amounts before you pay ($499 total).
Submitted to FMCSA in Motus by you or a filer you authorize.
Independent filing service operated by Fast Filing Group LLC. Not affiliated with FMCSA, USDOT or any government agency.