Glossary
BOC-3
The federal filing that designates a process agent in every state where a carrier or broker operates, so legal papers can be served on the company. Haul Handbook publishes no state-by-state page for this term, across 26 live states, checked Aug 9, 2026.
By Evan Reid, Founder of Haul Handbook · Updated Jul 19, 2026
FMCSA will not grant or keep active operating authority without a BOC-3 on file.
Where this term is defined
This definition follows the authority that defines the term. Read the source directly:
FMCSA, Process Agents (Form BOC-3)Read more
The full guide goes past the definition into the filings, deadlines, and steps: BOC-3 filing guide.
Related terms
Operating authority
The federal permission a for-hire carrier or broker needs to transport regulated freight or arrange it across state lines. FMCSA grants it as one or more authority types tied to a docket (MC) number, separate from the USDOT number that identifies the company.
Process agent
A person or company a carrier or broker names in each state to receive legal documents on its behalf. Process agents are listed on the BOC-3 filing; many national agents provide blanket coverage for all states at once.
Apportioned plate
A single license plate issued under the IRP that lets a commercial vehicle operate in every member jurisdiction. The registrant pays each jurisdiction a share of the fee based on the miles the fleet travels there.
Base jurisdiction
The single state or province where a carrier registers under IRP and licenses under IFTA, chosen by where the fleet is based and keeps its records. The base jurisdiction collects the fees and taxes and settles them with the other member jurisdictions.