So you want to become an owner operator.  Believe it or not, becoming an owner operator is easier than you think.  To date, our agency has assisted a number of professional drivers in their quest to become owner-operator truckers.  Regardless of whether you’re running hotshot loads, dry van loads, or reefer loads, the following steps will guide you in the process of becoming a truck driver.

Step 1:  Decide on your preferences.

Are you already a company driver?  Are you about to run your first load after talking to a family member?  Why you want to run loads is just as important as any other step.  It is important for you to decide on the types of loads your company will carry, the types vehicles you will operate, and the states you will operate in.  Determining the answer to these questions will help you determine whether you’re going to run “hotshot” loads from Arkansas to Texas or whether your company will operate as a grain and gravel hauler.

Keep in mind, that in the trucking business, everything matters.  The type of truck you choose affects the routes and loads you can get.  Subsequently, your insurance coverage and rates will also be affected by your load type, truck type, and your operating radius.  So, do your homework!

Step 2:  Obtain your USDOT number, Insurance, and Operating Authority(if needed)

Regardless of whether your company operates as an intrastate carrier or an interstate carrier, you must obtain your USDOT number prior to running your first load.  The USDOT number is assigned to your company and must be displayed on your vehicle’s driver side door, along with your home office city, state, and company name.  Failure to do so could result in compliance violations.  As a new registrant, an violation could result in a mandatory audit or fine from the US department of transportation.  To apply for a first top USDOT number, new applicants can go to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website  at www.fmcsa.dot.gov .  The USDOT number is free.

Since your company has a commercial vehicle, everyone wants make sure that the vehicles you operate are properly insured.  So from this point on, if you need commercial insurance contact us here and we will get you started.

After obtaining your USDOT number, you may be required to obtain your operating authority.  Your operating authority dictates the type of operation your company can run, the type of cargo you can carry, and part of the state you can legally operate in.  Since a company can have more than one operating authority, I suggest you visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/registration-steps.htm to find out the costs and procedures involved in obtaining your operating authority.

Step 3:  Drug Testing Consortium and New Registrant Program

According to the FMCSA, all new U.S. and Canada comiciled motor carrier owners and operators seeking authority to conduct interstate operations within the United States are required to subscribe to a safety assurance program for the first 18 month period.  During the first 18 month period:

• your roadside safety performance will be closely monitored to ensure your company has basic safety management controls in place
• A safety audity will be conducted by the DOT once you’ve had enough time to put your safety management controls in place.
• Failure to demonstrate basic safety management controls may result in having your registration revoked.

As a new entrant, you will receive a number of phone calls and faxes from companies that offer compliance service.  Shop quickly, but wisely.  These programs vary from tremendously.  Always look for a company that will assist you with check your driver backgrounds, driving records, safety and compliance, as well as random drug testing for your drivers.

Step 4:  Texas Truck Drivers- Register with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

If you wish to operate in the state of Texas, you will also need to register your vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.  The certificate number issued by the state will allow you the ability to logon and register your trucks and trailers with the state.  After registering with the state of Texas, you will be able to print your cab cards, insurance cab card,  and more.  Visit www.txdmv.gov/motor_carrier/registration.htm  or call the state of Texas at 1 (888) 368-4689 for more details.

After registering with the state of Texas, you are now ready to begin soliciting contracts and loads with various carriers.  There are still expenses you’ll need to consider like Fuel Tax, getting loads, dispatching services, and paperwork.  Becoming an owner-operator can be a great way to take your career to a new level.  At this point you become the master of your own destiny.   It always helps if you network with other owner operators in order to develop best practices for your business.  Remember that good planning and being prepared are key in beginning your successful owner-operator business.