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CA MCP

Written by Nick Webster

Published on Dec. 11, 2023, 4:37 p.m.

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The CA MCP (Motor Carrier Permit) is an important document issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), verifying that motor carriers have met all necessary registration and insurance requirements. It provides essential information about the carrier, like their name, mailing address, USDOT number, and CA#. It also includes the effective and expiration dates of the permit, which is valid for 12 months. Read here about Starting a Trucking Company Correctly.


An MCP ensures that a motor carrier has legal permission to operate on California Highways. If you already have one, update your MCP regularly to ensure you comply with California DMV regulations. Our organization is standing by to register you with an MCP or renew your registration today. All you’ve got to do is give us a call. What is MC Number?



Who Needs the CA MCP?



In California, an MCP is required for any person or business that operates commercial vehicles hauling property for compensation or profit, and meets any of the following criteria:

  • Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more.
  • Vehicles, including the driver, are designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers.
  • Cars are used to transport hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding.


Also, carriers that operate within California must register with the California Department of Motor Vehicles and obtain a USDOT Number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).



Who Does Not Need the CA MCP?



While most commercial carriers operating in California will need to obtain an MCP, this requirement has some exemptions. Here are a few examples of pages who may not need an MCP in California:

  • Carriers operating within a 100-mile radius of their base of operations: Carriers that use exclusively within a 100-mile radius of their home base and are not engaged in interstate commerce are exempt from the MCP requirement. You must visit the website link.
  • Vehicles used for personal or family purposes: Vehicles used for personal or family purposes are not required to obtain an MCP.
  • Specific agricultural operations: Vehicles used to transport agricultural products or supplies to or from a farm, ranch, or other agricultural operation may be exempt from the MCP requirement. What is Unified Carrier Registration?
  • Government-owned vehicles: Certain vehicles owned or operated by government agencies may be exempt from the MCP requirement.



It's important to note that while some carriers may be exempt from the MCP requirement, they may still need to comply with other state and federal regulations, such as registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles and obtaining a USDOT Number from the FMCSA. What is the DOT SAP Program?




When Can the California DMV Suspend or Revoke a Motor Carrier Permit?




The California Department of Motor Vehicles can suspend or revoke a Motor Carrier Permit (for various reasons). These include:


  • Violations of state or federal regulations: Carriers that violate state or federal laws may have their MCP suspended or revoked. This includes violations related to safety, insurance, and registration requirements.
  • Failure to maintain insurance coverage: Carriers that fail to maintain the minimum insurance coverage required by law may have their MCP suspended or revoked.
  • Unsatisfactory safety rating: Carriers that receive a terrible safety rating from the FMCSA can have their MCP suspended or revoked.
  • Failure to pay fees or fines: Carriers that fail to pay required fees or penalties may have their MCP suspended or revoked.
  • Non-compliance with drug and alcohol testing requirements: Carriers that fail to comply with state or federal drug and alcohol testing requirements may have their MCP suspended or revoked. Also, visit the website link.
  • Failure to comply with weight or size limits: Carriers that exceed weight or size limits may have their MCP suspended or revoked. How To Request the DOT PIN Number?



What Happens If You Get Caught Operating Without an MCP?



The punishment could be severe if you're caught driving without a Motor Carrier Permit (MCP). You may be fined up to $2,500 and face imprisonment in the county jail for up to three months. In addition, the California Highway Patrol may decide that it's necessary to impound your vehicle. It's essential to ensure you have an MCP before getting behind the wheel! Visit the DOT Authority Package, which contains tips to prepare for 2023 DOT Week filings in minutes. How do you get an Oregon Trip And Fuel Permit?



What Are the Insurance Requirements for a California MCP?



To obtain and maintain a California Motor Carrier Permit (MCP), carriers must adhere to specific state-mandated insurance requirements. These requirements are in place to ensure that pages have adequate insurance coverage to protect themselves and others in the event of an accident. Here are the insurance requirements for a California MCP:


  • Liability insurance: Carriers must maintain liability insurance coverage with minimum limits of $750,000 for bodily injury and property damage. However, carriers transporting hazardous materials may be required to carry higher minimum limits.
  • Cargo insurance: Carriers must maintain cargo insurance coverage with minimum limits of $5,000 per vehicle.
  • Workers' compensation insurance: Carriers that employ drivers in California must maintain workers' compensation insurance coverage in compliance with California law.



It's important to note that carriers may be required to carry additional insurance coverage depending on the type of cargo they transport or the type of operation they conduct. Pages should consult with their insurance provider to ensure they have adequate insurance coverage to meet all legal requirements. Must visit FMCSA Hours of Service Suspended topics.




How Do I Renew a California MCP?



So, you need to renew your California MCP and wonder how to do it. Well, don't worry; the process is pretty straightforward. First, you must get an application form from the DMV or download one online. Fill out the form with all of the required info: name, address, etc. Importance of The FMCSA 30-Minute Break Rule.

Next, you'll need to pay a fee to process your application and submit it in person or by mail. After that, just sit back and wait for approval from the CA DMV, which can take up to 30 days. Once you receive support, your license will be renewed and suitable for another two years! Keep in mind that depending on where you live, there may be additional requirements like taking a written test—the importance of The FMCSA 30-Minute Break Rule.



Contact Us! Our Organization Can Provide You With CA MCP Registration



If you want to get your California MCP registration done, then you should know that our third-party organization has covered you. We can provide the necessary guidance and support to help ensure your application is processed quickly and correctly!

So don't stress out if you don't have all your documents ready. Just give us a call or shoot us an email, and let us take it from there. We'll ensure everything goes smoothly so that you're good to go with a brand-new Motor Carrier Permit when the time comes! Don't miss out on this opportunity—contact us now for your CA MCP registration. Also, take a look at the Drug and Alcohol Program policy. What is DOT Clearinghouse Enforcement?



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