The permit and the filings set the timeline
A motor carrier of property in California needs a Motor Carrier Permit. Vehicle Code 34631.5 sets the floor at a $750,000 combined single limit, or $300,000 for a fleet running only vehicles under 10,000 pounds GVWR. Interstate authority adds an FMCSA filing and the MCS-90 endorsement. Filings are made by the insurer and have to be accepted before you can legally roll, so start earlier than the date you need.





