Vehicle requirements
- Interstate carriers need IRP registration through the DMV and an IFTA license through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).
- Drivers of vehicles over 26,000 lbs, or carrying placarded hazardous materials or 16+ passengers, need a commercial driver's license (CDL).
- CDL drivers must be in a drug and alcohol testing program and checked in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.
- Heavy trucks must meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions rules, including periodic Clean Truck Check testing.
- CHP inspects many carriers' terminals through the Biennial Inspection of Terminals (BIT) program.
Commercial insurance
- Federal minimum liability for interstate for-hire freight carriers in vehicles over 10,000 lbs is $750,000. Hazardous materials require more.
- Personal auto policies usually exclude business use — you'll need commercial auto coverage.
- Consider cargo, physical damage, and general liability coverage. Brokers and shippers often require them.
- The Motor Carrier Permit requires proof of liability insurance filed by your insurer and proof of workers' comp or a signed exemption.
- Carriers with CDL drivers must enroll in the DMV Employer Pull Notice program.
State / federal transportation requirements
- Get a CA number from the CHP. The CHP requires a USDOT number first.
- Get a Motor Carrier Permit from the DMV for trucks over 10,000 lbs GVWR or any vehicle hauling property for pay. Operating without one can bring fines up to $2,500 and impoundment.
- Household goods movers need a permit from the Bureau of Household Goods and Services; passenger carriers are regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission.
- Crossing state lines: you need a USDOT number, and for-hire carriers also need an MC number (operating authority) from the FMCSA.
- Interstate carriers file Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) every year.
- New carriers go through an FMCSA safety audit in their first 12 months.
These are California state and federal requirements. Cities and counties often add their own. Requirements and fees change — confirm with the agency before you apply. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Other California Business Types
California Construction & Trades: Licenses and Permits
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