What BOC-3 is and why it matters
Form BOC-3 designates a "process agent" in every state where a carrier operates — a person or company authorized to accept legal documents (subpoenas, lawsuits, regulatory correspondence) on the carrier's behalf. Every interstate motor carrier, broker, and freight forwarder must have a valid BOC-3 on file to maintain operating authority.
Most carriers use a single nationwide process agent service ($30–$75 one-time fee) that covers all 50 states. Once filed, BOC-3 stays in force until canceled — but process agent companies close or go out of business, and when that happens, every carrier on their list suddenly has an invalid BOC-3 and faces authority revocation.
How to check and fix a lapsed BOC-3
FMCSA publishes the current BOC-3 status for every active carrier. This lookup shows it instantly alongside the rest of a carrier's compliance picture. If the status shows "not on file," the carrier needs to file a new BOC-3 before authority is revoked — typically within 30 days of discovering the issue, though FMCSA doesn't send reminders.
To file, a carrier picks any nationwide process agent service, pays the one-time fee, and the agent files the BOC-3 on their behalf. Processing is usually same-day.
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Start MonitoringFrequently asked questions
Do I need a BOC-3 if I only operate in one state?
If you have a USDOT number and operate for hire, yes — even intrastate carriers with interstate authority need BOC-3. Intrastate-only carriers without MC authority generally do not.
How much does BOC-3 filing cost?
$30–$75 one-time for a nationwide filing service. Some charge annual maintenance fees; most do not. The fee is paid to the process agent, not FMCSA.
What happens if my process agent closes?
Your BOC-3 becomes invalid and FMCSA typically notifies you by mail. You have 30 days to designate a new process agent before authority is at risk. Transport Comply's monitoring catches this automatically.
Can I file BOC-3 myself?
Only if you designate process agents in all 50 states yourself, which is impractical. In practice, everyone uses a nationwide service.