Freight broker license North Carolina
Obtain your freight broker license in North Carolina
Launch your North Carolina freight brokerage with DAT Authority.
With the DAT Authority Co-Pilot Program, you’ll gain expert support to obtain your freight broker license in North Carolina and leverage powerful resources to accelerate your business growth.
While the term “freight broker license” is sometimes used, what’s actually required in North Carolina—and across the U.S.—is obtaining a freight broker authority through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The DAT Authority Co-Pilot Program helps you secure your authority, complete necessary filings, and meet insurance requirements. By streamlining the entire process, we make it easier than ever to launch your freight brokerage and comply with all legal and operational standards. Success starts with preparation—let us guide you from start to finish.
- Obtain your freight broker license quickly and stress-free
- Skip the frustration of complicated paperwork
- Enjoy expert assistance every step of the way


Obtain your freight broker license quickly and stress-free
We’ll help you get your freight broker license quickly and stress-free.
Navigating the registration process can be overwhelming, but we’re here to simplify it for you. We’ll secure your DOT registration and FMCSA MC docket number efficiently and accurately, so your North Carolina freight brokerage can get up and running without delays. Our team also ensures compliance with insurance and bond requirements, giving you peace of mind that your business meets all regulatory standards. With our expertise, you can focus on building your brokerage while we handle the paperwork.
Skip the frustration of complicated paperwork
Let us handle the paperwork needed to get your North Carolina freight broker license.
We’ll handle all the details to ensure your freight brokerage stays compliant and avoids costly mistakes—from filing a BOC-3 process agent to managing all the necessary paperwork. Our team’s expertise helps you sidestep common errors that can delay your registration. Whether it’s obtaining the right bonds or ensuring you meet FMCSA requirements, we’re here to make the process seamless, so you can focus on growing your business.


Enjoy expert assistance every step of the way
Dedicated support to guide you through obtaining your North Carolina freight broker license.
DAT is here to make the process of obtaining your freight broker license in North Carolina simple. Our experts provide ongoing guidance, offering answers, advice, and support whenever you need it—even after your business is up and running. From helping you navigate FMCSA requirements to staying compliant with evolving regulations, we’re here to ensure your brokerage thrives. With our proven expertise, you’ll have a trusted partner to help you scale your business with confidence and ease.
"Some say it's simple to get your authority, and that you should save your money and do it yourself. Other people, including myself, are not sure where to even begin. I used a service provided by DAT to get my authority. It was important to me that it was done right the first time, by people who have done this before."
- Chad Boblett - Boblett Brothers Trucking
"They took me by the hand an led me through all of the diffiult and confusing steps to ensure that I started off on the right food. I cannot say it any clearer than these folks know what it's all about."
- Gregg Knight, LTL Trucking
A “freight broker license” is a commonly used term, but what’s actually required is a freight broker authority, issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This authority legally allows individuals or businesses to arrange the transportation of goods between shippers and carriers. Obtaining broker authority involves registering with the FMCSA, securing a Motor Carrier (MC) number, and meeting requirements such as obtaining a surety bond and filing a BOC-3 process agent form. This authority ensures compliance with federal regulations and establishes credibility in the freight industry, helping brokers build trust with clients and carriers while positioning their business for growth and success.
Freight broker authority is essential to legally operate as a freight broker in North Carolina or any U.S. state. It ensures compliance with federal regulations and provides the necessary authority to arrange shipments between carriers and shippers. Without it, you cannot legally run a brokerage business. Additionally, obtaining your broker authority enhances your credibility with clients, demonstrating professionalism and reliability. This credibility is crucial in securing contracts, building trust, and fostering long-term relationships in the highly competitive freight industry.
The cost of obtaining a freight broker license varies. The FMCSA application fee is $300, but additional expenses include a $75,000 surety bond, which typically starts at $900 per year, depending on credit history. You may also need insurance, which can range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually. Other costs, such as business registration, software, and training programs, should also be considered. Altogether, startup costs for a freight brokerage can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.
To obtain a freight broker license in North Carolina, you must apply to the FMCSA for operating authority, secure a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund agreement, designate a BOC-3 process agent, and meet any applicable state business requirements. You’ll also need a USDOT number, which is issued during the application process. While not mandatory, freight broker training courses are highly recommended to prepare you for the responsibilities of managing shipments, compliance, and customer relationships.
The process of obtaining a freight broker license in North Carolina typically takes 4-6 weeks. This includes submitting your application to the FMCSA, securing a surety bond, and filing a BOC-3 form. However, delays may occur if your application is incomplete or if there are issues with your paperwork. Working with a service like DAT Authority can help streamline the process and ensure all requirements are met efficiently.
Pave the way to your freight broker license in North Carolina
The DAT Authority Co-Pilot Program is your trusted partner in securing your freight broker license in North Carolina. From handling complex paperwork like DOT registration and FMCSA MC docket numbers to filing your BOC-3 process agent, we ensure every step is smooth and hassle-free. Our experts provide ongoing support, guiding you through the licensing process and beyond. With DAT Authority, you’ll have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to launch your freight brokerage successfully.