New Authority Insurance
Starting a trucking company? We specialize in working with new ventures and new FMCSA authority holders. Get the coverage you need to start operating legally.
Free Guide: New Authority Insurance Handbook
Everything you need to know about insurance requirements, filings, and the 20-day waiting period. Written by Darin Austin, Transportation Risk Specialist.
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Join CommunityWhat You Need to Know
Insurance Requirements
For-hire trucking companies operating under FMCSA authority must maintain minimum liability coverage of $750,000 for most general freight operations. Some commodity types require higher limits.
You must file proof of insurance with the FMCSA before you can begin operating.
New Ventures Welcome
We work with startup trucking companies and understand the challenges of getting started. Whether you have prior trucking experience or are new to the industry, we can help you understand your insurance options.
Coverage Types
- •Primary Liability (required for FMCSA authority)
- •Physical Damage (collision and comprehensive)
- •Cargo Insurance (protects freight in your care)
- •General Liability
- •Occupational Accident (driver coverage)
Getting Started
The insurance application process typically requires information about your operation, including:
- •DOT and MC numbers (or application confirmation)
- •Drivers' information and MVRs
- •Vehicle information and VINs
- •Type of freight and operating radius
- •Business entity information
State Requirements
In addition to federal filing requirements, some states require separate state filings:
New Authority Timeline: Days 1-21
Here's what to expect during your first three weeks with new FMCSA authority. This timeline assumes you have insurance in place and filings submitted.
FMCSA Grants Authority
FMCSA approves your MC/FF authority application. You receive your operating authority number.
Insurance Filing with FMCSA
Your insurance carrier files proof of financial responsibility electronically with FMCSA. This filing demonstrates you maintain the required liability coverage.
Note: Your insurer handles this filing, not you. We coordinate this as part of binding your policy.
State Filings (If Required)
States like Kentucky and Texas require separate insurance filings for intrastate authority or weight-distance tax registration.
- • Kentucky Form E (KYU): Weight-distance tax credential for trucks ≥60,000 lbs operating in KY (not an authority number)
- • Texas Form E: TxDMV insurance filing for intrastate operations
20-Day FMCSA Protest Period
Federal law requires a 20-day waiting period after authority is granted. During this time, competitors or other parties can file protests with FMCSA.
Important: You cannot legally operate in interstate commerce during this 20-day window, even with insurance in place. Protests are rare but must be resolved before you can operate.
Ready to Operate
After the 20-day protest period ends with no unresolved protests, your authority becomes active. You can now legally haul freight in interstate commerce.
Verify your authority status at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before dispatching your first load.
Reality Check
- • The 20-day clock starts when FMCSA grants your authority, not when you apply
- • Insurance must be in place before your carrier can file proof of coverage with FMCSA
- • State filings are separate from federal filings and have different requirements
- • Operating before Day 21 without proper authority can result in fines and out-of-service orders
- • Not all states require additional filings beyond the federal insurance filing
Ready to Get Started?
Download our free handbook or contact us for a quote on your new authority insurance.