For-hire carrier authority - Iowa

Intrastate

Motor carriers transporting household goods, bulk liquid commodities (both dairy and nondairy) and property for hire regardless of vehicle weight must file an application (Iowa DOT form 441052) with the Motor Carrier Services Bureau for a motor carrier permit or certificate. Any vehicle transporting a liquid commodity in bulk that has an origin and destination in Iowa must operate under a motor carrier permit.

Iowa issues a motor carrier permit or certificate which must be carried in each vehicle (physical or electronic format), and available for inspection upon request. The original permit or certificate should be maintained at the carrier’s place of business.

Intrastate vehicles are required to have a US DOT number displayed on the vehicle, and maintain continuous insurance coverage. Failure to maintain continuous insurance coverage will result in suspension of the carrier. A reinstatement fee will be required before the motor carrier will be reinstated. Cargo insurance must be maintained, but does not require filing with Iowa.

Insurance

Federal insurance limits adopted for intrastate carriers: Nonhazardous property carriers over 10,000 lb GVWR, $750,000 CSL; nonhazardous property under 10,000 lb GVWR, $300,000 CSL; cargo insurance all property carriers, $10,000 (cargo insurance filing with Iowa not required).

Interstate

Iowa is a participating member of the Unified Carrier Registration Agreement (UCRA). Online registration and fee payment is recommended and available to all carriers at the national UCRA website at www.ucr.in.gov.

Refer to Unified Carrier Registration Agreement (UCRA) for the current fee schedule.

See Regulatory Agencies for address(es).