Glossary
Intrastate authority
The state-issued permission to operate for hire entirely within one state, with pickup, delivery, and travel all inside its borders. Haul Handbook publishes a sourced intrastate authority page for all 26 live states, checked Aug 9, 2026.
By Evan Reid, Founder of Haul Handbook · Updated Jul 19, 2026
It is separate from federal interstate authority, and the requirements and agency differ by state.
Read more
The full guide goes past the definition into the filings, deadlines, and steps: Intrastate authority by state.
Related terms
Interstate authority
FMCSA operating authority to carry freight for hire that crosses state lines, or that moves within one state as part of a longer interstate journey. It is the federal counterpart to state intrastate authority.
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.
BMC-84 surety bond
The surety bond a property broker or freight forwarder files with FMCSA as its financial responsibility instrument. It guarantees payment to carriers and shippers; a broker may instead file a BMC-85 trust fund for the same amount.