FMCSA Renews Online System for Trucker Operating Authority Registrations
Published Date: 11/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing its online registration system for new truck and bus companies to get their operating authority. This means businesses must keep using the easy online form to register or update their info. Comments on this plan are open until January 16, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up if you have ideas or concerns!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
New Carriers Must Use Online MCSA-1
If you are a new motor carrier, broker, freight forwarder, or similar transportation business seeking initial FMCSA registration or operating authority, you must apply using the online Form MCSA-1 through the Unified Registration System (URS). FMCSA estimates the time to complete the form is 1.34 hours per response and requests comments by January 16, 2026.
Estimated Increased Industry Burden and Costs
FMCSA estimates the ICR will cover 549,782 respondents (183,261 per year), with an estimated total annual burden of 736,708 hours (245,569 per year) and 1.34 hours per response. The agency reports the estimated annual industry labor costs increased by $7,240,851 and the Form MCSA-1 annual respondents rose from 94,619 to 183,261, increasing burden hours by 118,780.
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