Trucking

Have a strong plan in place to make later decisions and filings easier and more predictable.

Plan Your ${OoS} Business

Get legally recognized by the State and federal government so you can start acting on behalf of your business.

Register Your ${OoS} Business

Enter insurance and/or location agreements in your business's name to protect both you and your business legally.

After Registering Your ${OoS} Business

Obtain industry-specific approvals or inspections to make sure you’re in compliance with State or local laws before opening.

Before Opening Your Site in New Jersey


## Business Support

- The U.S. Small Business Administration's [Business Plan Tool](https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/write-your-business-plan) provides a step-by-step process to update the status of your business plan
- [The New Jersey Small Business Development Center](https://njsbdc.com/) regional offices are in every county and offer one-on-one support
- [SCORE](https://www.score.org/) is a national organization with local branches that provides access to volunteer, expert business mentors
- [The Women’s Center for Entrepreneurship of Northern New Jersey](https://www.wcecnj.org/) offers support to all entrepreneurs
- [The Latin American Economic Development Association of Southern New Jersey](http://www.laeda.com/) offers support to all entrepreneurs
- [UCEDC](https://ucedc.com/) provides low cost or free classes and paid business mentoring services

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

A business plan.

:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="What if I don't make a business plan?" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

Data shows that businesses with a plan are more successful. In addition, some state licenses may require you to have a business plan.

:::


Write Your Business Plan

Your business plan guides your business and helps you make decisions around operations, staffing, marketing, and financing. Learn [how to structure your business plan](https://business.nj.gov/pages/create-a-business-plan).


${naicsCodeLookupComponent}

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="Why do I need a NAICS code?" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

To [register for NJ state taxes and employer purposes](/tasks/register-for-taxes).

:::


Determine Your NAICS Code

Determine your 6-digit `NAICS code|naics` to complete your New Jersey tax registration. This code identifies your business's primary activities.

New Jersey uses a code system known as the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).

:::note
 This screen guides your next steps. It does not submit your information for registration purposes.
:::

Select Your Business Structure

:::infoAlert
 You can change your intended business structure anytime before you [form your business](https://navigator.business.nj.gov/tasks/form-business-entity) with the NJ Department of Treasury.
:::

You must select your business structure in order to access the full list of business tasks. Your `business structure|business-structure-learn-more` can have a large impact on taxes, financing, liability, and closure of your business. We strongly suggest doing research on the best option for your business.

Check Available Names and Form Your Business


## Application Requirements

- Your business name

---

## Next Steps

1. [Get your EIN](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online)
2. Save your EIN

${einInputComponent}

---

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

- An EIN
- An EIN Certificate (the document indicating your EIN)

:::


Get Your EIN from the IRS

:::note
 This screen guides your next steps. It does not submit your information for registration purposes.
:::

An `Employer Identification Number (EIN)|ein` is essentially a Social Security Number (SSN) for your business, provided by the federal government. It's better to get an EIN to avoid using your personal SSN on tax filings and business registrations. You need an EIN if you plan to have employees.


## Application Requirements

- `Entity ID|entity-id` (not required for general partnership or sole proprietorship)
- [NAICS code](/tasks/naics-code-determination): (You have not saved a NAICS Code yet)
- `EIN|ein`
- Estimated start date
- Description of your business activity
- Estimated number of employees (if applicable)
- Anticipated first payroll withholding date for employees (if applicable)
- Information on if and when you expect to report and collect sales tax
- Owner information
- Mail to address and business location(s)
- Other taxes you may collect (e.g., motor fuels and cigarette/tobacco taxes), a list will be provided

---

## Next Steps

1. [Register for State Taxes](https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessRegistration)
2. Save your New Jersey Tax ID (xxx-xxx-xxx/xxx)

${taxInputComponent}

---

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

- `Business Registration Certificate (BRC)|business-reg-certificate`
- `NJ Tax ID|tax-id`
- `Business Tax PIN|tax-pin`
- `Certificate of Authority for Sales Tax|certificate-authority-sales-tax` (if applicable)

:::


Register Your Business for State Taxes and Employer Purposes



:::infoAlert
 If you registered online, you will receive an email confirmation where you can download your BRC. It may take up to 72 hours before you can download your BRC on a public site. Your PIN may take longer to receive because it is sent through the mail.
:::

It's time to register your business for State taxes. Doing so will tell the State more about your business and determine the taxes and employer contributions you're responsible for.

:::note
 This screen guides your next steps. It does not submit your information for registration purposes.
:::


## Business Bank Account Possible Requirements

Some banks may request other documentation in addition to what is listed below. Compare and confirm document requirements, services, and fees.

- `Employer Identification Number (EIN)|ein`

- `Certificate of Formation|certificate-formation`

- `Business Registration Certificate|business-reg-certificate`

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

A business bank account.

:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="What if I don’t complete this task?" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

Mixing your personal and business expenses may result in inaccurate tax filings.

:::


Open Your Business Bank Account

A business bank account separates your business finances from your personal expenses. This helps you keep accurate and organized accounting records for tax purposes and business operations.

&nbsp;
## Eligibility Criteria

* At least 18 years old, if operating only within NJ
* At least 21 years old, if traveling across state lines
* A clean driving record with fewer than five points
* U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
* Minimum of 20/40 vision in each eye with or without glasses
* Ability to recognize red, green, and amber colors

## Application Requirements

* Basic New Jersey driver's license (Class D)
* Proof of US citizenship, such as a verifiable Social Security Number
* Completed [Holder Self-Certification](https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/drivertopics/CDSC-1.pdf)
* [Medical Examiner's Certificate](https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/drivertopics/RA_4_1_a.pdf) completed by your healthcare provider, if applicable
* Completed [Application for a Commercial Driver's License](https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/license/BA-208C.pdf)
* Complete Entry-level Driver Training (ELDT), also known as Hazardous Materials Training, from an approved provider
* Successfully completion of skills tests, including a vehicle inspection test, basic vehicle control test, and on-road test
* Additional skills tests, for specific endorsements
* Applicable fees paid

:::infoAlert
Endorsements (“P,” “S,” “H,” “T,” “X”)  are only added to a CDL upon request and require that applicants pass [additional knowledge and skills tests.](https://www.nj.gov/mvc/drivertopics/cdlendorsements.htm)
:::

:::infoAlert 
 You must apply for a CDL in person. Complete the appropriate form(s) and take them to any NJ MVC vehicle center (or complete the forms on site). Be sure to [make an appointment online](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc/AppointmentWizard) before showing up.
:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

- Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) after passing the knowledge portion of the test
- CDL after passing the driving exam

:::


**Contact:** (609) 292-6500 or mcscustomerservice@mvc.nj.gov

Make Sure You or Your Drivers Have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

A Commercial Driver License (CDL) is required to operate large, heavy, or specialized commercial vehicles. A business owner only needs a CDL if they themselves plan to drive these vehicles. Otherwise, it is their responsibility to make sure their drivers have CDLs.

&nbsp;

The type of CDL needed depends on vehicle type and endorsement, which are as follows:

* Class A, for vehicles weighing 26,001 or more and towing a vehicle over 10,000 lbs.
* Class B, for vehicles weighing 26,001 or more lbs that aren’t towing a heavy trailer.
* Class B or C with “P” Endorsement, for vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers.
* Class B or C with “S” Endorsement, for school buses used to transport students. **Please note that school buses require both an “S” and “P” CDL endorsement.**
* Class A, B, or C  with “H” Endorsement, for vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards
* Class A or B with “N” Endorsement, for vehicles carrying liquid cargo in large tanks.
* Class A with “T” Endorsement, for combination vehicles with two or more trailers.
* Class A or B with “X” Endorsement, for vehicles that require a combination of Hazmat (“H”) and Tanker (“N”) endorsements, such as fuel tankers and chemical transport trucks


## Eligibility Criteria

* New Jersey Business Registration 
*  `Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)|ein` 

## Application Requirements

* Business legal name
* A copy of a certified document from the IRS with the business name, current address, and federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
* A copy of your business `Certificate of Formation|certificate-formation` or `Business Registration Certificate|business-reg-certificate` (if applicable)
* Name, driver’s license number, and contact information of the executive requesting the MVC EIN
* Power of attorney (if the executive is not listed in the corporate documents)

Scan and email your completed application (Form BA-8) and accompanying documents to: mvc.mvccorpcodes@mvc.nj.gov.

&nbsp;

You can also mail your completed application and accompanying documents to:

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission

Business Licensing Services Bureau

P.O. Box 170

Trenton, NJ 08666-0170

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="What if I don't get this permit?" showIcon="false" calloutType="warning" }

Without an MVC EIN, you cannot register or title vehicles under your business's name. Also, the MVC must connect specific business licenses to an MVC EIN. If you do not have one, the MVC will create one when you apply for your business license.

:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="Once completed, you will have:" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }
A 15-digit EIN by mail or email, depending on how you applied and the contact information you provided.
:::
**Contact:** (609) 292-6500 or mcscustomerservice@mvc.nj.gov

Get Your Motor Vehicle Commission EIN

You need a  Motor Vehicle Commission `(MVC) Entity Identification Number (EIN)|mvc-entity-id` , once called the Corporation Code (Corpcode), to get:

* Titles for vehicles under a business name
* Registration for personal or commercial vehicles under a business name 
* Licenses and permits related to operating a motor vehicle industry business

## Application Requirements
For vehicles, you will need:

* Motor Vehicle Commission `(MVC) Entity Identification Number (EIN)|mvc-entity-id`
* Proof of ownership, such as a `Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO)|manufacturers-cert-of-origin`
* [Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA)](https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/vehicles/OS-SS-UTA.pdf)
* Proof of Identity, such as a valid driver’s license or other government-issued photo identification
* Lienholder information if adding or removing a lien from a title
* Odometer disclosure statement if the vehicle is less than 10 years old
* Notarized `Power of Attorney (POA)|power-of-attorney` if acting on behalf of the business owner
* Proof of sales tax payment or exemption
* Bill of sale if the vehicle was purchased from a private seller
* Proof of address to confirm New Jersey residency

For vessels, you will need:

* [Boat Registration Application (Form BA-51)](https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/vehicles/BA-51.pdf)
* [Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA)](https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/vehicles/OS-SS-UTA.pdf)
* Hull Identification Number (HIN), the vessel equivalent of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
* Proof of sales tax payment or exemption
* USCG documentation, if the vessel is documented with the U.S. Coast Guard

:::infoAlert 
 You must apply for a title in person. Complete the appropriate form(s) and take them to any NJ MVC vehicle center (or complete the forms on site). Be sure to [make an appointment online](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc/AppointmentWizard/8) before showing up.
:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="What if I don't get a title?" showIcon="false" calloutType="warning" }
If you operate a vehicle or vessel under an individual's name for business purposes, you may be subject to vehicle impoundment, fines, or eligibility issues with your insurance.
:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="Once completed, you will have:" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }
A Certificate of Title showing business ownership of the vehicles or vessels intended for business use.
:::

**Contact:** (609) 292-6500 or mcscustomerservice@mvc.nj.gov


Get a Title for Your Business Vehicle(s)

:::infoAlert 
A Motor Vehicle Commission 
(MVC) Entity Identification Number (EIN) is required before applying for or changing a vehicle title.
:::

You may need a title for any vehicles owned by your business.


&nbsp;

Typically, if you purchase a new vehicle from a New Jersey dealer, you will get a title as part of the sales process. If you opt out of this, you as the buyer are responsible for completing this process **within 10 days of the vehicle's purchase.**

&nbsp;

You also need to apply for a title if your vehicle:

* Has a title from a state outside of New Jersey
* Has a title owned by anyone other than the present business owner
* Has a title including a lien you want removed, or if you want to add a lien to the title
* Does not have a title (this is rare)
* Is a boat or watercraft (vessel), longer than 12 feet, that is owned by someone other than the intended business owner

## Application Requirements
You will need:
* `Federal Tax ID Number (FEIN)|federal-tax-id`
* Motor Vehicle Commission `(MVC) Entity Identification Number (EIN)|mvc-entity-id`
* [Application for Vehicle Registration (Form BA-49](https://www.nj.gov/mvc/pdf/vehicles/BA-49.pdf)
* Proof of Identity, such as a valid driver’s license or other government-issued photo identification
* Proof of current insurance, such as a card, policy number, or policy declaration page

If applicable, you may also need:
* Emissions or Safety Inspection Certificate, for certain passenger and commercial vehicles
* Weight Certificate, for vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds
* `United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Number|usdot-number`, for vehicles used in interstate commerce or with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 10,000 pounds
* `Agricultural Certificate Number|agricultural-cert-number`
* Notarized `Power of Attorney (POA)|power-of-attorney`, if applying on behalf of the business owner
* Lease/Finance agreement
* Fees paid, based on your vehicle type and weight

:::infoAlert 
 You must apply for a title in person. Complete the appropriate form(s) and take them to any NJ MVC vehicle center (or complete the forms on site). Be sure to [make an appointment online](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc/AppointmentWizard/8) before showing up.
:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="What if I don't get a title?" showIcon="false" calloutType="warning" }
If you use an unregistered vehicle for your business, you may be subject to vehicle impoundment, fines, or eligibility issues with your insurance.
:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="Once completed, you will have:" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }
* A valid registration card 
* A valid license plate
:::

**Contact:** (609) 292-6500 or mcscustomerservice@mvc.nj.gov


Register Your Business-Owned Vehicle(s)

:::infoAlert
A Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Identification Number (EIN) and title showing business ownership are required before registering a business vehicle
:::

Your business vehicles must have a valid license plate and registration card to be legally driven on public roads. This includes:

* Trucks, vans, or other vehicles that exceed a certain weight limit (usually over 10,000 pounds)
* Vehicles used to carry freight
* Vehicles used to carry passengers, such as taxis, limousines, and buses

Typically,  when you purchase a new vehicle from a New Jersey dealer, **they register it for you as part of the sales process.** If you opt out, or have a vehicle that was registered out of state, you, as the buyer, are responsible for registering it in NJ.


## Common Types of Commercial Insurance

:::infoAlert
Specific liability insurance may be required for business owners who have physical locations.
:::

- **Truck General Liability:** Covers injuries or property damage resulting from business activities not directly related to your truck
- **Truck Cargo Insurance:** Covers your freight from loss due to fire, collision, or striking of a load
- **Non-Trucking Liability:** Covers you when you’re using your truck for non-trucking activities such as running to the grocery store or visiting friends
- **Physical Damage Coverage:** Covers your truck when involved in a collision, fire, theft, or vandalism
- **Commercial General Liability Insurance:** Research coverage and pricing options for your industry and business size
- **Workers' Compensation Insurance:** Find a `workers' comp insurance|workers-comp` plan if you have employees. The State of New Jersey requires that you obtain this insurance if you have employees or stockholders in a corporation

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

A Certificate of Insurance.

:::


Get a Commercial Insurance Policy

Insurance will protect your business assets should you be held liable for an incident. You will also need proof of insurance to register your commercial vehicle with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

To find an insurance broker, speak to your network, local Chamber of Commerce, or supplier. Oftentimes, the best way to find a broker is through word of mouth.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration


## Application Requirements

- Full name of the carrier, broker, or freight forwarder
- Business address
- Name, title, phone number, and signature of the person authorized to sign the form
- Name and address of the processing agent for each state where you do business

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

- A designated process agent for your company
- A filed BOC-3

:::


File Your Blanket of Coverage (BOC-3)

:::infoAlert
 You need a process agent in each state where you do business.
:::

If you do any type of load-hauling for your company, you need to select a process agent and have them file the BOC-3 for your company. The Blanket of Coverage (BOC-3) designates a `process agent|process-agent` for your company that can file and receive legal documents on your behalf. The only companies who can file a Blanket of Coverage for themselves are brokers or freight forwarders.

To find a process agent, speak to your network or check the [Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) list of process agent companies.](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/process-agents)


:::infoAlert
The form can only be signed by an authorized official, like the owner, a partner, or an authorized representative.
:::

## You Need This If

- Your vehicle will haul hazardous materials
- Your vehicle weighs 10,000 pounds or more, and will transport loads inside the State, interstate, or internationally

## Application Requirements

- `Employer Identification Number (EIN)|ein` or Social Security Number (SSN)
- `Dun and Bradstreet (DUNS) number|duns` , if your company has one
- Names and titles of the company officers
- A `process agent|process-agent` , already filed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

- A USDoT registration number
- Authority to Operate (known as an MC number)

:::


Register Your Vehicle with the U.S. Department of Transportation

Any commercial vehicle crossing state lines must register with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDoT) to obtain a registration number.


## Application Requirements

- Proof of business address, such as bank statements or a certificate of formation
- `USDoT Number|usdot-number`
- `NJ Tax ID|tax-id` or Social Security Number (SSN)
- Truck information, such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN#), fuel type, number of axles, and more
- Mileage traveled in each state for the past year

Fill out form IRP-7 and email to mcscustomerservice@mvc.nj.gov, or mail to:


&nbsp;

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
&nbsp;

Motor Carrier Services - IRP Section
&nbsp;

225 East State Street
&nbsp;

PO Box 178
&nbsp;

Trenton, NJ 08666

&nbsp;

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

Registration credentials for each vehicle registered with the IRP.

:::

**Contact:** (609) 292-6500 or mcscustomerservice@mvc.nj.gov


Register Your Vehicles Under the International Registration Plan (IRP)

Before hauling loads across state lines, your vehicles must be registered with the IRP in the state where you formed your business. The IRP is a reciprocity agreement between all states in the U.S. and Canada, and **allows legal operation between jurisdictions.**

&nbsp;

Vehicles qualify for IRP registration if they:
* Will be operated within 1 or more states or provinces
* Are designed to transport persons or property for hire
* Have 2 axels and weigh more than 26,000 pounds
* Have 3 or more axels, regardless of weight

## Survey and Exemption Requirements

Complete the survey by March 1 each year if your facility had any EHS above a specific threshold at any time during the previous calendar year. You must complete a survey for each location where your business operates.

Complete an exemption form if any of the following are true:

* Your building is an administrative site only
* Your building has no EHS
* Your building has EHS below the threshold
* Your building has no staff on-site

Note: If you complete an exemption form and CRTK says your business is exempt, you do not need to complete an exemption form every year.

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="" showIcon="false" calloutType="conditional" }

A completed CRTK survey or an exemption.

:::

:::callout{ showHeader="true" headerText="What if I don't complete this task?" showIcon="false" calloutType="warning" }

If you don’t complete the survey or request an exemption by the deadline, you may receive significant fines and penalties.

:::


Complete the Community Right to Know Survey

If your business falls under an [industry in this list](https://www.nj.gov/dep/enforcement/opppc/reports/rtknaics.pdf), you need to complete the Community Right to Know (CRTK) survey or apply for an exemption. 
Businesses report certain chemicals they have on-site, known as `Environmental Hazardous Substances (EHS)|environmental-hazardous-substances`, to the CRTK program. CRTK uses this information to help New Jersey businesses and communities stay safe.

Your Step-by-Step Trucking Business Starter Kit

Your Step-by-Step Trucking Business Starter Kit

Knowing exactly what your Trucking business needs to get started can be difficult.

Check your application status

Check your application status

Find funding and certifications for your business

Find funding and certifications for your business

Learn about business licenses

Learn about business licenses

Get Your Trucking Business Started in 4 Easy Steps

Plan Your Business

Register Your Business

After Registering Your Business

Before Opening Your Site in New Jersey