# Freight Broker License: Requirements, Cost & Steps

Canonical: https://www.fastboc3filing.com/guides/freight-broker-license
Category: Industry Guides
Published: 2026-04-07
Updated: 2026-04-07
Read time: 9 min read

> Get your freight broker license step by step. Covers MC authority, BOC-3, BMC-84 bond, and FMCSA application fees for 2026.

## TL;DR

> Becoming a freight broker takes 3–6 weeks: file OP-1 ($300), wait for MC-B publication, secure a $75K BMC-84 surety bond (premium 1–10%), and file BOC-3 ($75). Brokering without authority is a federal violation.

## Key takeaways

- Total all-in cost: roughly $2,500–5,000 first year, including bond premium.
- Bond premium varies with credit; good credit = 1–3%, weaker credit = 5–10%.
- BMC-84 (surety) and BMC-85 (trust fund) both satisfy the $75K bond requirement.
- BOC-3 is required separately from the bond — FMCSA will not activate without both.
- Penalty for unlicensed brokering: up to $10,000 per violation under 49 USC §14901.

## Cited entities

- BMC-84 Surety Bond [DefinedTerm]
- 49 USC §14901 [Legislation]

## FAQ

### How do I get a freight broker license?

File Form OP-1 with the FMCSA selecting broker authority, pay the $300 application fee, wait for the MC-B number to publish, secure a $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond (or BMC-85 trust fund), and file your BOC-3. Total process: 3-6 weeks, ~$2,500-5,000 all-in counting bond premium and filing service.

### How much does a freight broker bond cost?

The $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond is a requirement, but you don't pay $75,000 - you pay a premium of 1-10% ($750-7,500/year) based on your personal credit and business financials. Good credit brokers pay closer to 1-3%; first-year brokers with lower credit pay 5-10%.

### Do freight brokers need a BOC-3?

Yes. Every broker with FMCSA authority (MC-B) must file a BOC-3 designating process agents. This is separate from your bond and separate from your operating authority application - all three are required for authority to activate.

### Can I broker freight without an MC number?

No. Brokering for-hire interstate freight without FMCSA broker authority is a federal violation under 49 USC §14901, fined up to $10,000 per occurrence. "Dispatcher" exemptions don't apply if you're setting rates or taking a margin on loads.

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Full article: https://www.fastboc3filing.com/guides/freight-broker-license