Vehicle requirements
- Interstate carriers need an apportioned registration (IRP plates) and an IFTA fuel tax license, both through the Washington DOL.
- Drivers of vehicles over 26,000 lbs, or vehicles carrying 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.
- Commercial vehicles need regular inspections and maintenance records.
- Oversize or overweight loads need permits from WSDOT Commercial Vehicle Services.
Commercial insurance
- Federal minimum liability for interstate for-hire carriers of general freight in vehicles over 10,000 lbs: $750,000. Hazardous materials require more.
- UTC-permitted in-state carriers must keep proof of insurance on file with the UTC, in the LLC's exact legal name.
- Personal auto policies usually don't cover business use. You'll need commercial auto coverage.
- Also consider cargo insurance, physical damage coverage, and general liability. Brokers and shippers often require them.
- Employees must be covered by L&I workers' compensation.
State / federal transportation requirements
- USDOT number: Required for interstate commercial vehicles. Washington also requires one for in-state carriers operating 16,001 lbs or more, hauling placarded hazardous materials, or regulated by the UTC (such as movers and buses), regardless of weight.
- MC number (operating authority): Needed to haul other people's goods or passengers for pay across state lines.
- UTC permit: Needed to haul general freight for pay within Washington (common carrier permit). Household goods movers, solid waste haulers, and bus companies need their own UTC authority.
- Unified Carrier Registration (UCR): Annual registration for interstate carriers.
- New carriers go through an FMCSA safety audit in their first 12 months and update the MCS-150 every two years.
These are Washington 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.
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