December 16, 2025
5 min(s) to read
Transporting vehicles across the country is a responsibility that requires more than just a truck and a driver’s license. Every day, thousands of people rely on professional auto transporters to move their cars safely—whether they’re relocating, buying a vehicle online, heading to college, or traveling seasonally.
Auto transporters, also known as car carriers or car shippers, must meet strict legal, safety, and insurance requirements to operate. These regulations are in place to protect customers, drivers, and the vehicles being shipped.
In this guide, Payless Auto Shipping Services explains the licenses, permits, and registrations required to become an auto transporter, along with tips to help customers choose a reputable car shipping company.
Operating as an auto transporter involves more documentation than standard driving. Requirements may vary slightly by state, but most professional auto carriers must have the following:
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration
United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) number
Motor Carrier (MC) number
Let’s break these down.
Most auto transport drivers are required to hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The CDL class depends on the size and weight of the truck and cargo.
There are three CDL types:
Class A – Typically required for car haulers and long-distance auto transport
Class B – For certain medium-duty commercial vehicles
Class C – For smaller commercial vehicles or specialty transport
Auto transporters hauling multiple vehicles usually need a Class A CDL, which requires additional training, testing, and state-level certification.
Any commercial vehicle transporting goods across state lines must register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
The FMCSA oversees:
Carrier safety compliance
Operating authority
Insurance verification
Federal trucking regulations
As part of the registration process, carriers must file proof of insurance and designate a legal process agent before receiving authorization to operate.
A USDOT number is a unique identifier used to track a carrier’s safety record, inspections, audits, and compliance history.
You typically need a USDOT number if:
Your vehicle exceeds federal weight limits
You operate in interstate commerce
Your state requires it for intrastate transport
Most professional auto transporters are required to obtain one.
An MC number confirms that a carrier is authorized to transport regulated cargo across state lines.
While a USDOT number identifies the carrier, the MC number grants operating authority. Many auto transporters hold both numbers due to the nature of nationwide vehicle shipping.
Once licensed, auto transporters may work directly with customers or partner with an auto transport broker.
Auto transport brokers:
Connect customers with vetted carriers
Handle scheduling, pricing, and logistics
Simplify the booking process
Just like carriers, brokers must be:
Registered with the FMCSA
Licensed and bonded
Assigned their own USDOT and MC numbers
Reputable brokers also verify that the carriers in their network are properly insured and compliant with federal regulations.
Licensing, bonding, and insurance protect everyone involved in the auto transport process. These requirements ensure that:
Drivers operate legally
Vehicles are insured while in transit
Customers can verify a company’s legitimacy
Carriers are accountable for their work
Checking a company’s credentials is one of the most important steps when choosing an auto transport provider.
Before booking your shipment, take time to research the company:
Read customer reviews and ratings
Confirm USDOT and MC numbers
Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings
Ask about experience with your vehicle type
Verify insurance coverage
A reputable company will be transparent, communicative, and willing to answer your questions.
At Payless Auto Shipping Services, we work with a nationwide network of licensed, insured, and FMCSA-compliant carriers to ensure safe and reliable vehicle transport.
Whether you’re shipping a car, truck, SUV, motorcycle, or specialty vehicle, our experienced team is here to make the process simple and affordable.
📞 Get a free quote today or speak with a vehicle shipping specialist to learn more about how Payless Auto Shipping Services can help move your vehicle with confidence.
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