---
title: "BOC-3 filing"
description: "A BOC-3 (Designation of Agents for Service of Process) names a legal agent in each state where you operate who can receive court papers for your company. FMCSA will not grant operating authority until"
canonical: https://mydotcheck.com/boc-3
last_updated: 2026-10-14
---

# BOC-3 filing

A BOC-3 (Designation of Agents for Service of Process) names a legal agent in each state where you operate who can receive court papers for your company. FMCSA will not grant operating authority until a BOC-3 is on file.

## Who needs a BOC-3

-   For-hire motor carriers applying for MC operating authority
-   Brokers and freight forwarders
-   Not usually needed for private carriers with only a USDOT number

## How BOC-3 filing works

Most carriers hire a blanket process agent company that covers all 50 states. The agent files the BOC-3 electronically with FMCSA on your behalf. It is a one-time filing unless your agent or company details change.

MyDotCheck is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or part of the U.S. Department of Transportation or FMCSA. Data comes from public FMCSA datasets and may lag official records by a day or more. Government filings can be made directly with FMCSA at no charge.

Free daily DOT watch

We check your FMCSA record every day and email you before deadlines.

[Turn on alerts](/#alerts)

## BOC-3 questions

### Can I file a BOC-3 myself?

Carriers can paper-file their own BOC-3, but you still need an agent in every state you operate. Most carriers use a blanket agent that files electronically.

### Do I need a new BOC-3 every year?

No. It stays on file unless something changes, such as a new agent or a company name change.

---
Canonical URL: https://mydotcheck.com/boc-3
Title: BOC-3 Filing: What It Is and How to Get a Process Agent