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Starting a moving company in California: CAL-T permit, USDOT, insurance and truck lettering
Short answerCalifornia household movers need a permit from the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (a CAL-T number), a USDOT number, cargo and liability insurance, workers' comp, and a Motor Carrier Permit with CA number. Interstate moves add FMCSA operating authority. The truck shows name, USDOT, CA number and CAL-T number.
The checklist, in order
- Household mover permitApply to the Bureau of Household Goods and Services. Requires a fingerprint background check, proof of insurance, and a written exam on the tariff rules.
- USDOT numberRequired in California regardless of interstate.
- Motor Carrier Permit and CA numberCalifornia DMV, with BIT enrollment.
- InsuranceCargo (household goods), liability, workers' comp for crews.
- Interstate authorityFMCSA household goods authority, BOC-3, and the federal mover rules (Your Rights and Responsibilities booklet, written estimates).
- Letter the truckName, USDOT, CA number, CAL-T number on both doors. Movers usually letter the box too.
What goes on the truck
| Company name | As on the permit |
|---|---|
| USDOT | USDOT 1234567 |
| CA number | CA 123456 |
| CAL-T | CAL-T 123456 |
Both sides, contrasting color, readable from 50 feet in daylight. Two inch numbers is the standard; the rule is legibility, not a fixed height.
Related questions
Can I move people's stuff without a permit?
Not for pay in California. Unlicensed moving is a misdemeanor and BHGS runs stings.
Do I need an MC number?
Only for interstate household goods moves.
Checked September 2026 against FMCSA, California DMV, CHP, CSLB and BHGS requirements. A plain-English summary, not legal advice; fees and insurance minimums change, so confirm with the agency before filing.