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Trucking insurance and permits, made simple

Plain-English guides for owner-operators and small fleets: coverage, filings, costs and what to do next.

October 2, 2026 · Rules & filingsTexas IFTA Renewal 2027: Keep Your License and Decals ComingTexas IFTA renewal 2027: how automatic renewal works, what can block it and why your Q3 2026 return, due Nov. 2, matters.October 2, 2026 · Rules & filingsTexas Intrastate Operating Authority: The TxDMV CertificateTexas intrastate operating authority explained: who needs a TxDMV certificate besides a USDOT number, how to apply in TxMCCS and the Form E filing.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsAnnual DOT Inspection for Trucks: Every Unit, Every 12 MonthsEvery truck and trailer needs a passed annual DOT inspection every 12 months. Learn what proof to carry, how long to keep the report and mistakes to avoid.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsDOT Medical Card for Truck Drivers: How Long It LastsA DOT medical card is valid up to 24 months. Learn who can issue it, how Texas tracks it and what happens if it expires. This is not medical advice.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsDriver Qualification File for Owner-Operators: What to KeepYes, owner-operators need a driver qualification file too. Learn what goes in your DQ file, how long to keep it and why auditors ask for it first.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsHow to Get MC Number Operating Authority: Step by StepLearn how to get an MC number and operating authority: the filings, the insurance step, the waiting period and what can keep you parked.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsMCS-150 Biennial Update 2026: The Pause Is Not PermanentFMCSA paused USDOT inactivations for missed MCS-150 biennial updates, but only until further notice. Learn what changed, who is affected and what to do now.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsNew Entrant Safety Audit: What FMCSA Checks in Your First YearA new USDOT number means 18 months as a new entrant. Learn when the safety audit happens, what FMCSA checks and which violations fail it right away.September 20, 2026 · Rules & filingsHow to Get a USDOT Number: Who Needs One and the StepsHow to get a USDOT number: who needs one, what to gather and where to apply. Learn the difference between a USDOT number and operating authority.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsWhat is a BOC-3 filing, and why do you need oneA BOC-3 names your process agent in every state you run. Learn why FMCSA requires it before your authority activates.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsHow to prepare for a DOT compliance auditMost new authorities face a New Entrant Safety Audit in their first 12-18 months. See the files you need ready.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsHours of service rules for owner-operators11 hours driving, a 14-hour window, a 30-minute break, and the 60/70-hour limit. Know the HOS numbers before your ELD flags you.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsFactoring for owner-operators: filings at no costFactor your invoices with TCZ and eligible filings can come at no cost to you. See how cash flow and compliance work together.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsFMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse 2026 rulesNew identity verification started April 27, 2026. See what changed in the FMCSA Clearinghouse and what it means for your file.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsForm 2290 deadline for trucks first used in SeptemberThe 2026-2027 Form 2290 tax period is open. See the exact deadline for trucks first used in September and how to file it right.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsIFTA third quarter 2026 due date: it's not Oct 31The IFTA Q3 2026 deadline shifts to Monday, Nov 2. See how to file on time and avoid penalties or a suspended license.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsIRP apportioned plate renewal: what sets your dateYour IRP renewal date depends on your base state and last year's mileage. Learn how it works and how to stay ahead of it.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsNew authority checklist: USDOT, MC, BOC-3 and moreLearn how to get your USDOT and MC number in the right order, plus every filing after, so your authority activates fast.September 18, 2026 · Rules & filingsUCR 2027 registration deadline: what carriers must knowUCR 2027 registration opens October 1, 2026, with new fees. Learn who must file, what it costs and the deadline.