Texas Trucking Authority & USDOT Requirements (2025 Guide)

March 8, 2023

Complete guide to Texas trucking authority, USDOT numbers, and MC permits. Step-by-step process, costs, timelines, and requirements for Texas carriers.

*Last updated: January 15, 2025 | Reading time: 12 minutes*

Quick Answer:

Texas trucking authority requirements: All carriers need a USDOT number for vehicles over 10,001 lbs. Interstate carriers need MC authority ($300 fee, 3-4 weeks). Intrastate carriers need TXDMV authority (3-10 days). Additional requirements include insurance, driver qualification file, IFTA/IRP for multi-state operations, and drug testing programs and clearinghouse registration.

Starting a trucking business in Texas requires navigating both federal and state regulations unique to the Lone Star State. With Texas being the second-largest state and a major freight hub connecting Mexico, the Gulf Coast, and the rest of the United States, understanding Texas trucking authority requirements is crucial for success.

This comprehensive guide covers everything Texas trucking entrepreneurs need to know about obtaining proper authority, from USDOT numbers to state-specific TXDMV permits, ensuring your operation runs legally across Texas’s 254 counties and beyond.

📋 What You'll Learn

Difference between interstate and intrastate authority in Texas
USDOT vs MC number vs TXDMV authority requirements
Step-by-step application process for Texas carriers
Complete cost breakdown and timeline
Texas-specific permits like IFTA and IRP
Common mistakes Texas truckers make

Understanding Texas Trucking Authority Types

Texas trucking authority requirements depend on your operation scope. Unlike some states, Texas has specific regulations for carriers operating solely within state boundaries, while federal rules apply to interstate operations.

Intrastate Authority (Texas Only)

USDOT Number: Required for vehicles over 10,001 lbs
TXDMV Authority: Required for for-hire operations
Timeline: 3-10 business days
Cost: Varies by operation type
Insurance: Texas minimum requirements

Perfect for: Truckers hauling only within Texas boundaries (Houston to Dallas, Austin to San Antonio, etc.)

Interstate Authority (Multi-State)

USDOT Number: Required for vehicles over 10,001 lbs
MC Authority: Required for for-hire operations
Timeline: 3-4 weeks
Cost: $300 filing fee + additional requirements
Insurance: Federal minimum requirements

Perfect for: Truckers crossing into Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, or other states

What is a USDOT Number in Texas?

A USDOT number is your Texas trucking company’s federal identifier issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Every commercial vehicle over 10,001 pounds operating in Texas requires this number, whether you’re hauling oil field equipment in West Texas, agricultural products in the Rio Grande Valley, or freight through the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Texas carriers need a USDOT number if they operate:

Vehicles over 10,001 pounds in commercial operations
Vehicles transporting hazardous materials (common in Texas oil industry)
Passenger vehicles carrying 16+ people
Any for-hire transportation across state lines

MC Authority vs. TXDMV Authority: What's the Difference?

🎯 Key Texas Distinction
MC Authority: Required for interstate for-hire operations (crossing state lines)
TXDMV Authority: Required for intrastate for-hire operations (Texas-only operations)

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If you’re planning to haul loads from Houston to Dallas, Austin to San Antonio, or anywhere within Texas boundaries exclusively, you need TXDMV intrastate authority. If you plan to cross into Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, or Arkansas, you need federal MC authority.

Texas Trucking Authority Costs (2025)

Authority Type	Cost	Timeline	Required For
USDOT Number	Free	2-5 business days	All carriers over 10,001 lbs
MC Authority (Interstate)	$300	3-4 weeks	Interstate for-hire carriers
TXDMV Authority (Intrastate)	Varies	7-10 business days	Intrastate for-hire carriers
BOC-3 Filing	$50-$100	1-2 days	MC authority activation
Texas IFTA Registration	$10 + fuel tax	1-2 weeks	Multi-state operations over 26,000 lbs
Texas IRP Registration	Varies by fleet	1-2 weeks	Multi-state operations
UCR Registration	$76-$2,209	Immediate	Interstate carriers

Complete Step-by-Step Process for Texas Truckers

🏢 Step 1: Form Your Texas Business Entity

Before applying for any trucking authority, establish your business legally in Texas. Register with the Texas Secretary of State and choose your business structure:

Texas LLC: Most popular for small trucking operations, offers liability protection and tax flexibility
Texas Corporation: Better for larger operations or those seeking investment
Partnership: Suitable for multi-owner trucking businesses

Obtain your EIN from the IRS and consider getting a registered agent if required.

📝 Step 2: Apply for Your USDOT Number

Visit the FMCSA website and complete the MCS-150 form. Prepare these details for your Texas trucking operation:

📋 USDOT Application Checklist for Texas

Complete Texas business address (not a PO Box)
Business phone number and emergency contact
EIN and business structure type
Types of cargo (oil field equipment, agricultural, general freight, etc.)
Vehicle specifications and fleet size
Annual mileage estimates within Texas and interstate
Hazmat designation (important for Texas oil industry)

⚖️ Step 3: Choose Your Authority Type

For Interstate Operations (MC Authority):

Submit Form OP-1 through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System if you plan to:

Haul loads from Texas to other states
Transport goods crossing state lines
Operate as a for-hire carrier in interstate commerce

For Intrastate Operations (TXDMV Authority):

Apply through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles if you plan to:

Operate exclusively within Texas boundaries
Haul loads between Texas cities only
Provide for-hire transportation services within Texas

🛡️ Step 4: Obtain Required Insurance

Insurance requirements vary based on your authority type and cargo. Work with Texas commercial trucking insurance providers familiar with state requirements:

🛡️ Texas Insurance Requirements

General Freight: $750,000 minimum liability (interstate) or Texas minimum (intrastate)
Oil Field Equipment: Often requires higher coverage due to equipment value
Hazardous Materials: $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 depending on classification
Cargo Insurance: Based on typical load values and customer requirements

📋 Step 5: Complete Additional Filings

For Interstate Carriers:

BOC-3 Filing: Designate process agents in each state of operation
UCR Registration: Annual federal registration for interstate carriers

For Multi-State Operations:

Texas IFTA Registration: Fuel tax reporting for operations over 26,000 lbs
Texas IRP Registration: Apportioned plates for multi-state registration

🔍 Step 6: Drug Testing and Safety Requirements

All Texas CDL employers must enroll in FMCSA-compliant programs:

Drug & Alcohol Testing Consortium: Pre-employment, random, and post-accident testing
FMCSA Clearinghouse Registration: Track driver violations and compliance
Safety Management: Prepare for new entrant safety audit within 18 months

⏱️ Texas Trucking Authority Timeline

Week 1: Business formation and EIN in Texas
Week 1-2: USDOT number application and approval
Week 2-3: Authority application (MC or TXDMV) and insurance
Week 3-4: Additional registrations (IFTA, IRP, UCR if needed)
Week 4-6: Final approvals and compliance setup

Need Help Obtaining Your Permits?

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What permits are required to operate a trucking company in Texas?

To operate a trucking company in Texas, you’ll need a USDOT number, and depending on your operations, either a Texas Intrastate Authority or Interstate Authority (MC Number). Additionally, filings like BOC-3, UCR registration, and insurance compliance are required.

2. Do I need both a USDOT and MC Number in Texas to haul freight?

If you're operating across state lines, yes — you need both a USDOT and MC Number in Texas. The USDOT number identifies your business, while the MC Number grants permission to operate as a for-hire carrier transporting regulated commodities.

3. What’s the difference between Intrastate Authority and Interstate Authority in Texas?

Intrastate Authority allows you to operate solely within Texas, while Interstate Authority lets you cross state lines. If you're hauling loads that leave Texas or originate elsewhere, you’ll need Interstate operating authority (MC Number) in addition to your USDOT.

4. Can I operate with just a USDOT number if I only transport within Texas?

Yes, but only if your operations are strictly within Texas. You'll also need Texas Intrastate Authority from the Texas DMV to legally operate intrastate.

5. How do I get my Interstate Authority if I'm based in Texas?

To obtain Interstate Authority, apply for a USDOT and MC Number through the FMCSA. Then file your BOC-3, secure insurance, register for UCR, and wait for your authority to be activated. Truckers Authority can handle this full setup for you.

6. Is an Intrastate Operating Authority required for Texas-based carriers hauling only within the state?

Yes. If your operations are limited to Texas, you must apply for a Texas Intrastate Operating Authority from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). This is in addition to your USDOT number.

7. What’s the process to apply for a USDOT and MC Number in Texas?

You start by applying through the FMCSA website. You’ll complete the MCS-150 and OP-1 forms (if applicable), designate a BOC-3 process agent, provide proof of insurance, and register under the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program. Truckers Authority can walk you through or handle the entire process.

8. Does a Texas carrier need both Intrastate and Interstate Authority?

Yes, if you operate both within Texas and across state lines, you’ll need both Intrastate and Interstate Authority. Each set of permits comes with specific requirements depending on the nature of your operations.

9. Are there any exemptions to needing an Intrastate Authority in Texas?

If you only operate interstate and don’t haul loads exclusively within Texas, you may not need Intrastate Authority. However, many Texas-based carriers hold both to stay compliant, especially when transporting goods from point-to-point within the state.

10. How long does it take to activate your MC Number in Texas?

Once all filings are submitted and insurance is confirmed, MC Number activation typically takes about 21 days. This is part of the FMCSA’s public vetting period, but the entire setup process can begin immediately.

11. What is the role of the Texas DMV in issuing trucking permits?

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) issues Intrastate Operating Authority for carriers who only operate within the state. They ensure compliance with state-specific transportation regulations.

12. Can I apply for Texas trucking authority if I don’t own a truck yet?

Yes, you can start the authority process without owning a truck. In fact, many entrepreneurs set up their USDOT and MC Number in Texas before purchasing equipment so they can hit the ground running once they do.

13. Do I need insurance before applying for my USDOT and MC Number in Texas?

You can apply first, but your MC Authority will not become active until the FMCSA receives your proof of insurance from your provider. This includes auto liability and, in some cases, cargo or hazmat coverage depending on your operations.

14. Is a BOC-3 filing required when applying for Interstate Authority in Texas?

Yes. A BOC-3 filing is mandatory for all carriers applying for Interstate Authority. This designates a legal process agent in each state you operate in and is required before your MC Number can be activated.

15. Can Truckers Authority help with both Intrastate and Interstate Authority packages in Texas?

Absolutely. Truckers Authority specializes in full-service registration for new carriers, including USDOT and MC Number in Texas, Intrastate Authority, UCR, BOC-3 filing, and more. We’ll guide you step-by-step and make sure nothing is missed.

👉 See all FAQs →

Texas-Specific Industry Considerations

Oil and Gas Industry

Texas’s prominent oil and gas industry creates unique opportunities and requirements for truckers:

Higher insurance requirements for hauling equipment and materials
Hazmat endorsements for transporting petroleum products
Specialized permits for oversize/overweight oilfield equipment
Regional variations in requirements across different Texas oil regions

Agricultural Transportation

Texas agriculture requires specific considerations:

Seasonal permit variations for harvest periods
Livestock transportation regulations and facilities
Fresh produce requirements and time-sensitive logistics
Border crossing permits for Mexico trade routes

Border Operations

Texas’s extensive border with Mexico creates additional requirements:

FAST/C-TPAT enrollment for expedited border crossings
Commercial Zone operations within border commercial zones
International authority for cross-border operations
Security protocols and documentation requirements

Common Texas Trucking Authority Mistakes

Authority Type Confusion

Many new Texas truckers misunderstand whether they need MC or TXDMV authority. Remember:

Same-state operations: TXDMV intrastate authority
Multi-state operations: MC interstate authority
Private carriage: May only need USDOT number

Insurance Gaps

Texas’s diverse industries require careful insurance consideration:

Underestimating coverage needs for oil field work
Not accounting for seasonal agricultural variations
Missing specialized coverage for unique Texas cargo

Ignoring State-Specific Requirements

Federal requirements don’t cover everything in Texas:

TXDMV registration and renewal requirements
State-specific safety regulations
Local permitting for oversized loads

Why You Need Help with Texas Trucking Authority Permits

Obtaining Texas trucking authority permits can be time-consuming and complicated, especially with overlapping state and federal rules. Missing even one step can result in denied applications or fines. That’s why working with an experienced service provider like Truckers Authority makes all the difference.

We specialize in bundling all required registrations into one easy, streamlined process—saving you time, stress, and money.

Texas Trucking Authority Packages

We offer complete registration packages tailored for new and experienced carriers operating in Texas. Our services include:

🚛 Trucking Authority Services

USDOT & MC Number Registration
BOC-3 Filing
Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
Form 2290 Filing (HVUT)
Drug & Alcohol Consortium Enrollment
FMCSA Clearinghouse Registration
IFTA & IRP Setup

🏢 Business Formation Services

LLC or Corporation Setup
EIN & Operating Agreement
Registered Agent Services

📍 Texas State-Specific Services

Texas Intrastate Authority (TXDMV)
Texas Apportioned Registration (IRP)
Texas IFTA Registration
Permit Renewals & Compliance Tracking

👉 View Our Authority Setup Packages & Pricing

How Long Does the Process Take?

Texas trucking authority permits varies depending on whether you’re applying for state-only authority or interstate authority. Speak with one of our reps to find out what is right for you.

USDOT/MC Number – Instant upon application approval.
BOC-3 Filing – Within 24 hours.
IFTA/IRP – 1–2 weeks depending on documentation.
TXDMV Number – 7–10 business days.
UCR, Drug Consortium, Clearinghouse – 1–5 business days.

Our team helps expedite the process by ensuring your documents are accurate and submitted correctly the first time.

Why Choose Truckers Authority?

Choosing our team means choosing confidence, speed, and full support. Here’s why truckers across Texas trust us:

✅ We handle all paperwork and agency interactions.
✅ Our bundled packages save money and time
✅ Insurance Shopping
✅ Vehicle Registration

With our help, you can focus on driving and growing your business—not getting stuck in paperwork.

Get Started With Texas Trucking Authority Permits Today

Let Truckers Authority handle everything—from USDOT and MC numbers to TXDMV filings and fuel tax registration—so you can get on the road faster.

📞 Ready to start? call (866) 858-7172 to speak with a permit specialist.

Truckers Authority — Your One-Stop Shop for Texas Trucking Authority Permits and Beyond.