Process agents
BOC-3 Process Agent Filing
A BOC-3 designates someone in every state who can accept legal documents on your behalf. Without it on file, interstate operating authority does not become active.
What a BOC-3 actually does
It names a process agent in each state where you operate — a person or company authorized to receive court papers for your business. It is a legal-service requirement, not a safety or tax filing.
Who needs one
- Motor carriers applying for interstate operating authority.
- Brokers and freight forwarders.
- Carriers reinstating authority after revocation.
- Companies changing process agents or updating a lapsed designation.
How filing works
- In practice, the process agent company files the BOC-3 with FMCSA on your behalf — an individual carrier generally cannot file it for itself.
- One filing covers all states through a blanket agent.
- The designation stays on file until replaced; if your agent drops you, authority can be affected.
- Filing is usually fast, but it must be in place before authority becomes active.
What we do
We connect you with an independent process agent service to get your BOC-3 filed and confirm it appears on your record, and we can coordinate it alongside a new authority application. Service fees are quoted separately from any government fees.
Accuracy notice
Official government resources
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- Motor Carrier AuthorityUSDOT numbers vs. operating authority, and the filings that usually come with getting started.
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Request permit help
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Who we are — and who we are not
DOT-Permits.com is an independent commercial information and referral service. We are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Transportation, FMCSA, or any state DOT.
Any service fee we or a partner provider charge is separate from, and in addition to, government permit fees, taxes, and filing fees charged by state or federal agencies.
Permit requirements, fees, routing rules, and processing times change frequently and vary by state, route, load, and season. Information on this site is general in nature, may not be current, and is not legal or regulatory advice. Always confirm details with the issuing state agency before moving a load.