Deactivate Motor Carrier MC Number – Deactivating your Motor Carrier (MC) Number is a straightforward but important process for U.S. trucking companies, brokers, or freight forwarders who are suspending operations, going out of business, or no longer need interstate operating authority. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) handles this through voluntary revocation of operating authority. Whether you’re closing your business or shifting to private carriage only, following the official process prevents compliance issues, fines, or unintended insurance problems.
This guide is based on the latest official FMCSA instructions as of 2026 and walks you through everything USA-based carriers need to know.
What Is a Motor Carrier MC Number?
An MC Number (also called Motor Carrier Docket Number) is the operating authority issued by the FMCSA that legally allows for-hire motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders to transport goods or passengers across state lines. It is separate from your USDOT Number, which is used primarily for safety and identification.
Your MC Number appears on your FMCSA Licensing & Insurance records and must remain active (along with proper insurance filings) if you haul freight for compensation interstate.
Why Deactivate Your MC Number?
Common reasons USA carriers choose to deactivate their MC Number include:
- Going out of business or suspending all operations
- Switching to private carriage only (no for-hire interstate work)
- Selling or transferring the company
- Avoiding ongoing insurance, filing, and compliance costs
- Consolidating under a new entity
Voluntary revocation keeps your record clean and prevents the FMCSA from later revoking authority involuntarily due to insurance lapses or inactivity.
MC Number vs. USDOT Number: Key Differences You Must Know
| Feature | MC Number (Operating Authority) | USDOT Number (Safety Registration) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Allows for-hire interstate operations | Tracks safety, vehicles, and company info |
| Required For | For-hire carriers, brokers, forwarders | All commercial motor vehicle operators |
| Deactivation Method | Form OCE-46 (Voluntary Revocation) | Form MCS-150 with “Out of Business” |
| Can Stay Active? | Usually revoked together with USDOT | Can remain active even after MC revocation |
Important: If you only need to stop for-hire operations, you can revoke the MC Number while keeping your USDOT Number active for other purposes.
Requirements Before You Deactivate Your MC Number
Before starting:
- Verify your current status in the FMCSA Licensing & Insurance (L&I) system.
- Ensure you have no outstanding fines, audits, or insurance cancellations pending.
- Cancel or update your insurance filings (BMC-91 or BMC-91X) separately — the FMCSA does not handle insurance directly.
- Have your MC/MX/FF docket number, legal business name, and physical address ready.
- The person signing must be authorized (owner, officer, or partner).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Deactivate Your MC Number (Voluntary Revocation)?
Follow these official FMCSA steps exactly:
- Check Your Operating Authority Status
Visit the FMCSA carrier search tool and confirm your MC Number status is “Active” or “Authorized.” - Complete Form OCE-46 – Request for Revocation of Operating Authority
Download the latest Form OCE-46. Fill in your docket number (MC/FF/MX), complete business name, address, and authorized signature.
Signature rule: The form must be notarized or signed in the presence of an FMCSA staff member. - Handle Your USDOT Number (Choose One Option)
- Option A: Fully inactivate USDOT – Complete Form MCS-150 (or MCS-150B for hazmat). Select “Out of Business Notification” in the reason-for-filing section. Attach a copy of the signer’s driver’s license.
- Option B: Keep USDOT active – Update via your FMCSA Portal account (online) or submit MCS-150 selecting “Biennial Update or Changes.”
- Submit Your Forms (Fastest Method First)
- Recommended: Open a ticket at https://ask.fmcsa.dot.gov/app/ticket — you’ll get an immediate confirmation number by email.
- Fax: 202-366-3477
- Mail: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Office of Registration (MC-RS), 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, Room W65-206, Washington, D.C. 20590.
Processing typically takes up to 8 business days once received. You will receive confirmation via the method you used to submit.
What Happens After Deactivation?
- Your operating authority status changes to “Revoked” or “Inactive.”
- You can no longer operate for-hire interstate under that MC Number.
- Insurance requirements end (but notify your insurer separately).
- Your record remains public in FMCSA systems for historical purposes.
Can You Reactivate Your MC Number Later?
Yes. Submit an updated MCS-150 and request reinstatement of authority through the FMCSA. A filing fee applies, and approval is not automatic. Plan ahead if you might resume operations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting without notarization or proper signature
- Forgetting to attach the driver’s license copy with MCS-150
- Trying to deactivate only the MC Number without addressing the linked USDOT
- Assuming deactivation is automatic — you must file the forms
- Using outdated forms (always download the current version from FMCSA.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions About Deactivating MC Numbers
How long does it take to deactivate an MC Number?
Up to 8 business days after FMCSA receives your complete submission.
Do I need to cancel insurance first?
No, but you must notify your insurance company. The FMCSA requires active insurance only while authority is active.
Can I deactivate online without forms?
Currently, the official process still requires Form OCE-46 + ticket submission. The FMCSA Portal handles some USDOT updates but not full MC revocation.
What if I have multiple authorities?
You can revoke one MC authority while keeping others active.
Final Tips for USA Carriers
Deactivating your Motor Carrier MC Number is free when done correctly through official channels. Always use the latest forms directly from FMCSA.gov and submit via the ticket system for fastest processing. If your situation is complex (multiple authorities, pending audits, or international operations), consider consulting a transportation attorney or FMCSA-registered service provider.
For the most current instructions, visit the official FMCSA pages:
Need to check your status first? Use the FMCSA Company Snapshot tool today and take the next step toward compliance.