Authority & Compliance Setup
Authority & Compliance Setup
Launch Your Trucking Business with Confidence – IRP Trucks Can Help
FMCSA Licensed & Bonded Freight Broker (Cargo Insurance Covered)
U.S. Military-Approved Freight Broker (Department of Defense Authorized)
Starting or expanding a trucking company doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At IRP Trucks, we streamline the entire process of setting up your trucking authority and ensuring you meet all federal and state compliance requirements. Whether you’re a first-time owner-operator or a growing carrier, our experienced team is ready to guide you through every step from registrations to permits and filings.
6 Essential Services to Kickstart Your Trucking Authority
- USDOT & MC Number Registration
We help you apply for your USDOT and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers, which are required for interstate commercial operations. Our team ensures your applications are complete, accurate, and submitted without delay. - BOC-3 Filing – Process Agent Service
Every motor carrier must have a BOC-3 (Designation of Process Agents) on file. We’ll handle this requirement for you, assigning a qualified agent in every state where you do business. - Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
Our experts will enroll your company in the UCR system, which is mandatory for interstate carriers and freight brokers operating across state lines. - IFTA & IRP Account Creation
We set up your accounts for the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) and International Registration Plan (IRP), so you can legally operate across multiple jurisdictions and stay up to date with tax and registration requirements. - 2290 Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) Filing
We manage your IRS Form 2290 filing for vehicles exceeding 55,000 pounds. Once filed, you’ll receive your official stamped Schedule 1 to stay compliant. - Insurance Guidance
Our team connects you with trusted insurance partners to help you secure coverage that satisfies FMCSA’s liability and cargo insurance requirements.
Simplify Your Authority Setup with IRP Trucks
With over 15 years of experience, IRP Trucks provides reliable, fast, and affordable services to trucking companies across all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces. We take care of the paperwork and compliance, so you can stay focused on running your business.
Call us today at (630) 222-5770 to get started!
DOT and MC Number Registration – Start with Compliance at IRP Trucks
If you operate a commercial vehicle transporting passengers or freight—either within your state or across state lines—obtaining the proper federal registration is often a legal requirement. At IRP Trucks, we assist carriers in securing their USDOT and MC numbers, ensuring your trucking business starts or expands on solid, compliant footing.
What Is a USDOT Number?
A USDOT number is a unique identification number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It is used by federal and state officials to monitor a carrier’s safety performance, including inspection results, accident history, and audit records.
This number is required for most carriers operating commercial vehicles over a certain weight or transporting regulated goods or passengers. Some states also require a USDOT number even for intrastate-only operations.
How Are USDOT and FMCSA Related?
- USDOT stands for the United States Department of Transportation, the federal body responsible for regulating the country’s transportation infrastructure.
- The FMCSA, a division under USDOT, is dedicated specifically to regulating the safety and operations of commercial motor carriers.
When you apply for a USDOT number, you are registering with the FMCSA under the authority of the USDOT.
Why Do You Need a USDOT or MC Number?
A USDOT number is vital because it allows regulatory agencies to track and evaluate your company’s compliance and safety standards. It plays a key role in determining your eligibility to operate on public roads and affects your participation in inspections and audits.
An MC number (Motor Carrier number) is also required if your company engages in for-hire interstate transport of goods or passengers. This grants you the operating authority needed for certain types of business activities across state lines.
Let IRP Trucks Handle Your Registration
Understanding and filing for your DOT and MC numbers can be complex—but IRP Trucks makes it easy. With over 15 years of experience in trucking compliance and permitting, we guide carriers through the registration process with speed and accuracy.
📞 Call us now at (630) 222-5770 to get your USDOT and MC numbers registered without hassle.
What Is an MC Number?
An MC Number (Motor Carrier Number) gives interstate operating authority to for-hire carriers that transport passengers or federally regulated goods. While a USDOT number serves as a unique identifier for a motor carrier, the MC number grants legal permission to conduct specific commercial transportation across state lines.
You may need an MC number if you:
- Transport passengers or goods across state borders for compensation
- Act as a freight broker or freight forwarder
- Haul federally regulated commodities
Not all motor carriers require an MC number—only those engaged in regulated, for-hire, interstate operations.
Who Needs USDOT Registration?
To operate legally, you must apply for a USDOT number if your business meets any of the following criteria:
- You operate a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) over 10,000 lbs
- You transport 9–15 passengers, including the driver, for payment
- You carry 16 or more passengers, regardless of compensation
- You move hazardous materials that require placarding
- You engage in interstate commerce or certain types of intrastate commerce
Some states enforce USDOT requirements even if you operate only within state borders.
Who Must Apply for a USDOT Number?
You are required to obtain a USDOT number if:
- You operate interstate commercial vehicles
- Your trucks exceed 10,000 lbs GVWR
- You haul hazardous cargo
- You provide for-hire passenger transportation
In addition to federal regulations, several states mandate USDOT numbers for carriers operating only within the state. Be sure to check the specific rules in your area.
What Does a USDOT Number Cost?
The USDOT number itself is free of charge, but other registration components—such as MC number applications, BOC-3 filings, and insurance requirements may include additional costs.
Staying Compliant After Registration
After obtaining your USDOT and/or MC number, you must continue to meet certain obligations to remain in good standing:
- Ensure your business information is current
- File a BOC-3 form if an MC number is required
- Maintain active liability and cargo insurance
- Submit MCS-150 updates annually or biennially
- Register for Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) if operating interstate
- Comply with all state and federal safety regulations
Failure to meet these requirements can result in penalties, fines, or suspension of operating authority.
State-Specific USDOT Number Rules
While USDOT numbers are a federal mandate, some states impose their own requirements even on intrastate carriers. For example, Texas, Utah, and Pennsylvania require USDOT registration for commercial vehicles that do not leave the state, primarily to track safety compliance.
Need Help with USDOT or MC Registration? Call IRP Trucks at (630) 222-5770
We’ll guide you through the entire process—fast, easy, and compliant.
Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) UCR Registration – Validity & Importance for New Trucking Authorities
The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) is a yearly requirement for all businesses and individuals operating commercial motor vehicles across state lines. This includes not only motor carriers but also brokers, freight forwarders, and leasing companies even if they don’t directly own or operate vehicles.
The UCR is valid from January 1 through December 31 each year. To stay in compliance, carriers must renew their registration by December 31 of the current year. Failure to do so may lead to fines, enforcement actions, or suspension of your operating authority.
If you’re launching a new trucking business, UCR registration should follow your DOT and MC number setup. It’s a key step in showing that your operation is legally authorized to participate in interstate commerce.
Common UCR Registration Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
While UCR registration may seem straightforward, many new carriers make critical errors. Here’s how to avoid costly missteps:
- Missing the Deadline: UCR must be renewed annually before December 31. Delaying registration may result in penalties or enforcement delays.
Avoid It: Set a reminder and register early with a trusted agency like IRP Trucks. - Reporting the Wrong Fleet Size: UCR fees are based on power units in your fleet. Incorrect reporting can lead to overcharges or underpayments.
Avoid It: Count only the trucks and tractors (not trailers) that were operated during the 12-month period ending June 30 of the previous year. - Assuming You’re Exempt: Some brokers or small operators mistakenly believe UCR doesn’t apply if they don’t physically cross state lines.
Avoid It: UCR applies to brokers, freight forwarders, and companies using leased vehicles. Check FMCSA guidelines carefully. - Providing Incomplete or Incorrect Information: Errors like a wrong DOT number or misreported fleet data can delay your approval.
Avoid It: Double-check all required information before submission. - Navigating the Process Alone: The registration system can be confusing for new authorities, leading to errors and compliance issues.
Avoid It: Let IRP Trucks handle the entire process accurately and efficiently. - Using Unofficial Websites: Some third-party sites may charge hidden fees or mishandle your registration.
Avoid It: Always use the official UCR portal or register through a reliable provider like IRP Trucks. - Not Updating DOT Records: If your fleet size, business structure, or address changes, your UCR must be updated accordingly.
Avoid It: Keep your DOT profile current and reflect changes in your UCR registration. - Only Registering One Entity: If you operate under more than one DOT or MC number, each must be registered individually.
Avoid It: Review all your operating entities and ensure each one complies with UCR requirements. - Not Keeping Proof of Registration: Digital confirmations may not be sufficient during inspections or audits.
Avoid It: Keep a printed copy of your current UCR receipt in every truck you operate.
Register with Confidence at IRP Trucks
Avoid costly penalties and last-minute stress IRP Trucks provides fast, accurate UCR registration services for new and existing trucking authorities. Whether you’re a solo owner-operator or managing a large fleet, we’ll ensure your UCR is filed on time and correctly.
Call (630) 222-5770 today to get started with your UCR registration!
BOC-3 Filing Services – Get Your Operating Authority Activated Fast
Before your trucking company, brokerage, or freight forwarding business can legally operate across state lines, you must file a BOC-3 form (Blanket of Coverage). This is a federal requirement from the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and applies to all carriers with an MC number. The BOC-3 designates process agents in every U.S. state where you operate or travel through individuals authorized to receive legal documents on your behalf.
Without this filing, your operating authority will remain inactive even if your DOT and MC numbers have already been issued.
Why the BOC-3 Filing Is Critical
- Required for MC Activation: FMCSA will not activate your MC authority until the BOC-3 is submitted and approved.
- Legal Representation in All States: A process agent must be available in every state to receive court notices or legal correspondence.
- Essential for Interstate Operations: Whether you’re a carrier or broker, you’re legally required to have registered agents for interstate travel or operations.
- One-Time Filing: You only need to file once unless your business undergoes changes, such as new ownership or a different agent provider.
Who Can File a BOC-3?
Only licensed process agents or authorized companies can complete this filing. Carriers cannot submit the form themselves. Working with a reputable agency like IRP Trucks guarantees your filing meets FMCSA requirements and that all listed agents are properly registered.
When Should You File the BOC-3?
As soon as you receive your MC number, the BOC-3 should be filed—before you begin operations. Timely submission helps you activate your authority faster and avoid compliance delays.
What If You Don’t File?
Without a BOC-3, your operating authority stays in “not authorized” status. This prevents you from legally hauling freight and puts you at risk of legal trouble if documents can’t be delivered.
Let IRP Trucks Handle Your BOC-3 Filing
At IRP Trucks, we provide complete BOC-3 filing services to activate your operating authority smoothly and legally. We ensure that process agents are assigned in all 50 states and that your paperwork is submitted correctly—saving you time and stress.
Call (630) 222-5770 to complete your BOC-3 filing confidently and quickly!
Complete Safety Compliance Setup – FMCSA Compliance Starts Here
Starting a trucking business involves more than just getting your DOT and MC numbers. To operate legally, you must also establish a strong foundation for safety compliance—a critical step enforced by the FMCSA. At IRP Trucks, we help new carriers meet these requirements from day one, helping you avoid costly violations and prepare for audits and inspections.
Why Safety Compliance Matters
The FMCSA holds all motor carriers accountable for maintaining driver safety, accurate recordkeeping, vehicle maintenance, and operational protocols. If you fail to meet these standards, your business could face:
- Hefty fines
- Safety audits
- Out-of-service orders
- Loss of operating authority
Key Safety Compliance Requirements
- Driver Qualification Files (DQF)
Maintain files for each driver that include employment history, CDL copies, medical certificates, MVRs, and prior employer verification.
Missing documents can result in audit penalties. - Drug & Alcohol Testing Program
CDL drivers operating vehicles over 26,000 lbs in interstate commerce must be enrolled in a DOT-approved drug and alcohol consortium.
Non-compliance can lead to an immediate out-of-service status. - Hours of Service (HOS) & ELD Compliance
Drivers must track hours using Electronic Logging Devices to ensure they stay within FMCSA driving limits.
Violations affect CSA scores and risk status. - Vehicle Maintenance Records
Keep detailed logs for inspections, repairs, and scheduled maintenance.
Maintenance failures are a leading cause of fines. - New Entrant Safety Audit Readiness
All new carriers undergo a safety audit within the first year. Having organized policies and records is vital.
Failing this audit can result in authority revocation. - Accident Register Maintenance
Keep a record of all DOT-reportable accidents for at least three years.
Required for FMCSA review and risk tracking.
IRP Trucks – Your Partner in Safety Compliance
Our complete Safety Compliance Setup service includes:
- Proper setup of driver qualification files
- Enrollment in certified drug and alcohol testing programs
- ELD installation and hours-of-service tracking
- Maintenance tracking tools and forms
- Customized safety policies and guidance
- Audit preparation and ongoing compliance support
Call (630) 222-5770 and let IRP Trucks help you build a legally sound and audit-ready trucking business.
2290 Heavy Highway Tax Filing Made Simple Stay Compliant with IRS Regulations & Keep Your Trucks on the Road
If you operate heavy commercial vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds or more, you are required by the IRS to file Form 2290, also known as the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT). This annual tax helps fund the maintenance and construction of U.S. highways roads your business depends on daily.
For every trucker, fleet owner, or transportation business, staying compliant with Form 2290 is essential not only for legal operation but also for keeping your registration current. Missing the filing deadline could result in penalties, registration delays, and costly downtime.
What Is IRS Form 2290?
Form 2290 is a federal tax return that applies to heavy-duty vehicles operated on public highways with a gross taxable weight of 55,000 pounds or more. This includes most semi-trucks, commercial rigs, and agricultural vehicles. The tax revenue collected supports the U.S. highway system’s infrastructure.
Who Needs to File?
You must file Form 2290 if:
- You own, lease, or operate a heavy vehicle registered in your name
- Your truck weighs 55,000 pounds or more in gross vehicle weight
- Your vehicle operates more than 5,000 miles per year (or 7,500 for agriculture)
This applies to owner-operators, carriers, fleet managers, and leasing companies alike.
When Is the 2290 Filing Deadline?
The HVUT tax year runs from July 1 to June 30, and the standard due date is August 31 if your vehicle was first used in July.
For trucks put into service in other months, the filing deadline is the last day of the following month after the vehicle’s first use.
How Is the Tax Calculated?
The tax is based on:
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) – Includes the truck, trailers, and maximum load
- Month First Used – The earlier you start operating, the higher the prorated amount
- Mileage – Vehicles that travel under 5,000 miles (or 7,500 for ag use) may qualify for a suspension of tax
The maximum annual tax for vehicles over 75,000 pounds is $550.
What You Need to File Form 2290
Before filing, have the following ready:
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) – SSNs are not accepted
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for each unit
- Gross weight of each truck
- Start date of operation during the tax year
- Preferred payment method: EFTPS, debit/credit card, or check/money order
Why E-File Is the Smartest Option
Using an IRS-authorized e-file provider is the fastest and most secure way to submit your 2290 return. You’ll receive your stamped Schedule 1 (proof of payment) almost instantly critical for registering or renewing vehicle plates with the DMV or IRP.
Benefits of e-filing:
- Fast and accurate processing
- Instant Schedule 1 confirmation
- VIN corrections, batch filings, and customer support
- Required for fleets with 25 or more vehicles
What Is Schedule 1?
Schedule 1 is the IRS-stamped confirmation that proves your HVUT has been paid. This document is mandatory when registering your vehicle or renewing your plates through DMV or IRP base jurisdictions.
What Happens If You Don’t File?
Failure to file Form 2290 or pay the HVUT on time may result in:
- IRS penalties and interest
- Vehicle registration blocks or suspensions
- Delays in your operations and non-compliance with FMCSA
2290 and Your Operating Authority
To maintain active operating authority, you must provide proof of Form 2290 payment. Without a current Schedule 1, you may be restricted from hauling freight across state lines or completing registrations.
Let IRP Trucks Handle Your 2290 Filing
At IRP Trucks, we make 2290 filing easy and hassle-free. Whether you’re filing for one truck or a large fleet, we ensure your return is submitted correctly, on time, and with full IRS compliance. Our team helps you get your stamped Schedule 1 fast so you can stay on the road legally.
Call (630) 222-5770 today to file your 2290 with confidence.
Build Your Trucking Authority the Right Way
Need more than just tax filing? We provide end-to-end authority setup and compliance services for carriers of all sizes. From DOT/MC numbers, BOC-3 filing, and UCR registration to IRP, IFTA, 2290 filings, and safety compliance audits, we manage it all.
With over 15 years of experience, IRP Trucks has helped carriers across all 50 states and Canadian provinces launch and grow with confidence. Whether you’re just starting or expanding your fleet, we provide fast, reliable service that keeps your business moving forward.
Call us now at (630) 222-5770 to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Find out more about our services and how we can help you with your transportation and permits by getting in touch with us right away. If you need help moving heavy things, finding tricky ways, or getting special permits, we’re here to help. Let us make things easier for you so you can get your truck permits quickly and easily. If you need a driving pass or delivery service, choose IRP Trucks.
