Colorado New Authority Insurance. Get Your MC Active.
Starting a trucking company in Colorado? Your authority does not go active until insurance is on file. We shop 10+ carriers that write new ventures and handle your federal and state filings when you bind, so you can start hauling.
- ✓ We shop 10+ carriers that write new ventures
- ✓ Federal and CO filings handled when you bind
- ✓ Flexible down payment options
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Start Full Quote →Steps to Activate a New Colorado Trucking Authority
Get Your USDOT Number and MC Authority
Register with the FMCSA for a USDOT number. If you haul other people’s freight across state lines for pay, you also apply for MC operating authority and file a BOC-3 to name your process agents.
Bind Primary Liability and File Proof
Your authority does not go active until proof of insurance is on file. For general freight the FMCSA minimum is $750,000 in primary liability, and many brokers require $1,000,000. Once you bind, your carrier files your federal proof of insurance with the FMCSA.
Check Whether You Need a Colorado PUC Permit
Most general freight carriers in Colorado do not need a separate state permit. Household goods movers, towing carriers and placarded hazmat carriers do need a Colorado PUC permit. Movers with trucks of 10,000 lbs or more and towing carriers must carry $750,000 in liability, filed with the PUC on Form E.
Finish Your First-Year Setup
Most new carriers also need UCR registration, and interstate trucks over 26,000 lbs need IRP plates and IFTA. Expect an FMCSA new entrant safety audit during your first 12 months, so keep driver files, logs and maintenance records in order from day one.
Starting Out in Colorado
Colorado freight runs on I-25, I-70 and I-76, from Denver distribution and Front Range construction to Greeley ag and energy loads and mountain hauls over the passes. Winter weather, chain laws and steep grades make physical damage and cargo coverage matter. Tell us what you plan to haul and we will match you with carriers that write that work.
What Carriers Look At for New Ventures
- ✓CDL experience for you and any drivers you hire
- ✓Your driving record (MVR) and any past claims
- ✓The trucks and trailers you will run, with VINs and values
- ✓What you haul and how far (operating radius)
- ✓Where the trucks are garaged
More Colorado Coverage
We also serve Denver, Colorado Springs, Greeley, Pueblo, all of Colorado and new authority insurance. Renewing an existing policy instead? Compare your renewal →
Colorado New Authority FAQs
Do I need a Colorado PUC permit for my trucking company?+
Most general freight carriers do not. You need a Colorado PUC permit if you move household goods, run a towing company, or haul placarded hazardous materials. If you cross state lines for pay, you still need a USDOT number and MC authority from the FMCSA.
How much is the down payment on new authority truck insurance in Colorado?+
It depends on the carrier, your coverage limits, your CDL experience and what you haul. Down payments for new ventures are often higher than for established carriers, so we shop 10+ carriers to find workable down payment and payment plan options.
Can I get insured with less than two years of CDL experience?+
Some carriers will quote newer drivers, usually at a higher rate or with tighter rules on what you can haul. Tell us your experience on the quote form and a licensed agent will tell you which carriers will write you.
When does my authority go active?+
Your MC authority activates once the FMCSA has your insurance filing and BOC-3 on file and your application clears review. We handle your insurance filings when you bind, so your part is getting your paperwork to us complete.