If you’re searching for how to put your trucking authority on hold, pause operations temporarily, or stop paying unnecessary insurance and compliance fees without damaging your FMCSA record, you’re in the right place.
Many carriers mistakenly believe their only options are to keep an active MC number (and pay high costs) or risk an involuntary revocation. The good news? The FMCSA provides a clean, professional, and fully compliant solution: voluntary revocation of operating authority.
At EasyWayPro, we help carriers put their trucking authority on hold every month — quickly, correctly, and stress-free.
What Does “Putting Your Trucking Authority on Hold” Really Mean?
The FMCSA does not offer an official “pause,” “suspend,” or “hold” button for your Operating Authority (MC/MX/FF number).
The correct and recommended process is called Voluntary Revocation. It allows you to formally surrender your active operating authority and set your USDOT number to Inactive status at the same time.
Once completed, you benefit from:
- No longer needing to maintain active insurance filings (BOC-3)
- Stopping the annual Unified Registration System (URS) fee
- Eliminating unnecessary insurance premiums during downtime
- Keeping your compliance record clean — no involuntary revocation flags
- The ability to reactivate your authority later for just $80
This gives you maximum flexibility while protecting your long-term FMCSA standing.
When It Makes Sense to Voluntarily Revoke Your Trucking Authority
Voluntary revocation is the perfect solution in these common situations:
- Seasonal or slow business periods
- Selling trucks or downsizing your fleet
- Taking a planned break or sabbatical
- Transitioning to leasing on with another carrier
- Company restructuring, sale, or succession planning
- Avoiding costly insurance and compliance requirements while inactive
How to Properly Put Your Trucking Authority on Hold (Step-by-Step)
The process is straightforward, but timing and accuracy are critical. Follow these steps:
- Verify your current status in the FMCSA Licensing & Insurance database.
- Complete Form OCE-46 — Request for Voluntary Revocation of Operating Authority (must be properly signed).
- Update your USDOT number by filing an updated MCS-150 (or MCS-150B for hazmat carriers) and selecting Inactive/Out of Business Notification.
- Submit the forms to the FMCSA before you cancel your insurance coverage.
Important: Submitting voluntary revocation before canceling insurance prevents an involuntary revocation and protects your record.
Reactivating your authority is fast and simple when handled correctly:
- File an updated MCS-150
- Provide current proof of insurance (liability coverage + BOC-3 filings)
- Pay the $80 reinstatement fee
Most carriers are back in business within a few business days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Putting Authority on Hold
Carriers often make these costly errors:
- Canceling insurance before filing voluntary revocation
- Forgetting to update the USDOT number to Inactive status
- Submitting incomplete or improperly signed OCE-46 forms
- Assuming the authority automatically “pauses” without any action
These mistakes can result in compliance flags, extra fees, delays, or having to re-apply for authority from scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I temporarily put my MC authority on hold without revoking it? No. The FMCSA does not offer a temporary hold. The official method is voluntary revocation.
Will voluntary revocation hurt my record? No. When done correctly, it appears as a clean voluntary revocation and does not create negative flags.
How much does it cost to reactivate my authority? The reinstatement fee is only $80.
How long does reactivation take? Typically a few business days once all documents and insurance are in place.
Do I need to notarize Form OCE-46? Yes — the form must be properly signed (notarization or FMCSA staff witnessing may be required depending on submission method).
Ready to put your trucking authority on hold — or need help reactivating an existing one?
Contact EasyWayPro today. Our compliance experts will review your specific situation and handle the entire process from start to finish.
Benefits of Working with EasyWayPro
At EasyWayPro, we specialize in DOT compliance and authority management.
Our team handles the entire process for you:
- Review your current authority and USDOT status
- Prepare and file all required forms (OCE-46, MCS-150, etc.)
- Ensure your compliance record stays clean
- Coordinate timing with your insurance provider
- Support fast reactivation when you’re ready to return to the road
You focus on your business. We make sure the compliance side is handled perfectly.