BMC-91 and BMC-91X Liability Filings for Your MC Authority
FMCSA will not activate for-hire operating authority until proof of liability insurance is on file. Request a quote for primary liability with the filing included.
Request a liability quote with filing
Free BMC-91 Filing quote request. No obligation to buy.
- Primary liability that meets FMCSA minimums
- Filing submitted electronically by the insurer
- New authorities and reinstatements
Why request your BMC-91 Filing quote here
Built around the filing
The BMC-91 or BMC-91X is the certificate an insurer files with FMCSA to prove public liability coverage. Quotes focus on policies whose insurers can file it for your operation.
Correct limits for your cargo
General freight, oil, hazardous materials and passenger carriers have different federal minimums. The agent matches limits to what you will haul.
Help with pending authority
New applicants have a limited window to get insurance and a BOC-3 on file before an application is dismissed. A quick quote helps keep the process moving.
Reinstatement support
If authority was revoked after a cancellation notice, a new filing is part of reinstatement. Agents can explain what will be needed.
How it works
Share your DOT/MC status
Tell us where your authority stands and what you plan to haul.
Agent quotes primary liability
A licensed agent quotes primary auto liability that meets the federal minimum for your operation.
Insurer files with FMCSA
After you bind, the insurer submits the filing electronically, and it appears on FMCSA's licensing and insurance system once processed.
What is a BMC-91 filing?
Form BMC-91 and its counterpart BMC-91X are the federal certificates of insurance that show a motor carrier holds the public liability coverage FMCSA requires for for-hire operating authority. The motor carrier does not file the form itself. The insurance company files it electronically after the policy is bound, and the filing stays on record until the coverage is cancelled or replaced. Which variant is used depends on how the insurer and policy are set up, and the insurer selects the correct one.
Federal minimum liability limits depend on what you transport. For property carriers using vehicles with a gross weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more, the minimum is generally $750,000 for general freight, $1,000,000 for oil and certain other materials, and $5,000,000 for certain hazardous materials. Passenger carriers have their own minimums based on seating capacity. Brokers and shippers often require $1,000,000 regardless.
When a policy is cancelled, the insurer files a notice of cancellation, and the authority can be revoked if a replacement filing is not received before the cancellation takes effect. Keeping a continuous filing is one of the simplest ways to avoid an out-of-service authority.
Before you request a filing quote
- Your USDOT number and MC docket number, if assigned
- Driver list with CDL details and years of experience
- Unit list with years, makes and stated values
- Commodities hauled and typical radius
BMC-91 Filing FAQ
Who files the BMC-91 or BMC-91X?
The insurance company that issues your primary liability policy files it electronically with FMCSA. You cannot file it yourself, and an agent cannot file it without an insurer issuing coverage.
What is the difference between BMC-91 and BMC-91X?
Both prove public liability coverage for the same federal requirement. The form an insurer uses depends on its own filing setup and how the coverage is structured. Either one satisfies FMCSA when it is accepted on your docket.
How long does it take for a filing to show on FMCSA?
After the insurer submits the filing, it typically shows on FMCSA's licensing and insurance records within a few business days, though timing can vary. Your authority also needs a process agent (BOC-3) on file.
What are the minimum liability limits?
Generally $750,000 for general freight in vehicles of 10,001 pounds or more, $1,000,000 for oil and some materials, and $5,000,000 for certain hazardous materials. Passenger carriers need $1,500,000 or $5,000,000 depending on seating capacity.
Do I need a BMC-91 if I only operate within one state?
The federal filing applies to for-hire interstate operating authority. Intrastate carriers follow their state's insurance and registration rules instead, which may include a state filing.
Is there a fee to request a quote?
No. Requests are free and come with no obligation. Quotes are provided by licensed agents and partners, and the insurer sets final pricing and eligibility.
Get the filing your authority is waiting on
Request a primary liability quote with the FMCSA filing from licensed trucking agents.
Get My BMC-91 Filing Quote