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Dallas-Fort Worth · Broker authority

How to get freight broker authority in Dallas

FMCSA broker authority requires Form OP-1, a $75,000 BMC-84 or BMC-85 filing, a BOC-3 process agent, and an active MC number before you can legally arrange interstate loads for compensation.

Start BMC-84 Steps

FMCSA URS

Step-by-step for new property brokers

  1. Form OP-1 — Apply through FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) for broker authority (not carrier authority unless you also operate trucks).
  2. BMC-84 or BMC-85 — Obtain $75,000 financial security. Most Dallas applicants use a BMC-84 surety bond — see cost guide.
  3. Electronic filing — Your surety or trust provider files with FMCSA. Bond usually posts in two to three business days after approval.
  4. BOC-3 — Designate process agents in each state where you operate (blanket filings are common).
  5. MC number active — FMCSA issues your MC number when prerequisites are satisfied. Verify status in the FMCSA Licensing & Insurance system.

Timing

How long it takes

BMC-84 underwriting often completes in one to three business days for straightforward credit. FMCSA processing after bond filing is typically a few more business days. Plan two to four weeks end-to-end for a first-time Dallas-Fort Worth broker including OP-1, bond, and BOC-3.

Texas note: If you hold FMCSA broker authority, you are generally exempt from the separate TxDMV $10,000 intrastate broker bond under Tex. Transp. Code § 646.002 — even for Houston-to-Dallas lanes.