FMCSA: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the U.S. Department of Transportation agency that regulates commercial trucking and bus safety, including carrier registration, hours of service and safety ratings.
Why it matters to owner operators
FMCSA rules shape your daily operations, from driver qualification to inspections. Its databases are also what brokers use to verify your authority and safety record.
Example
Before approving a new carrier, a broker checks the carrier’s FMCSA record for active authority and insurance on file.
Related terms
Compliance & Safety: Getting set up and staying compliant keeps your truck earning. We help new carriers with broker setup packets and certificates of insurance. Talk to our dispatch team or browse the full trucking glossary.
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