Glossary · FMCSA & freight
BMC-91 and BMC-91X
Also called: BMC-91, BMC-91X, Insurance filing
Definition
A BMC-91 or BMC-91X is the certificate an insurer files with FMCSA to show a motor carrier has the public liability insurance its operating authority requires.
Under 49 CFR 387.313, a BMC-91 is filed when one insurer covers the full required limit, and a BMC-91X represents full coverage or any level of aggregation, such as a primary policy plus excess from another insurer. For for-hire carriers of non-hazardous property in vehicles of 10,001 pounds or more, the minimum is $750,000 (49 CFR 387.9). Fleets made up only of vehicles under 10,001 pounds need $300,000 (49 CFR 387.303).
Coverage can be cancelled only after 30 days' written notice filed with FMCSA. If a carrier stops keeping the required insurance on file, FMCSA revokes or suspends its authority involuntarily.
For a factor, the PDF certificate of insurance an applicant sends is not the filing. Check that a BMC-91 or 91X is on file with FMCSA in the carrier's exact legal name and that no cancellation is pending. These filings cover public liability, not cargo, so confirm cargo coverage with the agent separately.
Sources
- 0149 CFR 387.313: Forms and procedures (BMC-91, BMC-91X) · eCFR
- 0249 CFR 387.9: Financial responsibility, minimum levels · eCFR
- 0349 CFR 387.303: Security for the protection of the public, minimum limits · eCFR
- 04Federal Register: Availability of Motus, FMCSA's New Registration System · FMCSA notice, 2026-04-29