Freight glossary / Compliance and authority

What is FMCSA in freight?

The FMCSA is the federal agency that regulates commercial motor carriers in the United States, covering safety standards, hours of service, operating authority, and insurance filings. Its public registration and licensing data is the source most carrier vetting is built on. Because filings are dated, the agency's records also show when a carrier's status changed and why.

Also called: federal motor carrier safety administration.

Related terms

• Operating authority
• USDOT number
• SAFER
• CSA score
• Hours of service