Do I need to have a truck before I get my MC Number?

No, you do not need to have a truck before you get your MC Number. A VIN number or other proof of a physical vehicle is not required to file for your MC Number. The FMCSA requires that every MC number go through a 21-day protest period before they will activate it. However, the FMCSA will not activate your authority at the end of the waiting period if you do not have a BOC-3 and proof of insurance on file. Since you cannot get an insurance policy without a vehicle to attach it to, you will need your truck before you can get the proof of insurance required to activate your MC Number.