Freight Broker Bond in Texas

Freight brokers in Texas must hold a $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond to comply with federal FMCSA regulations, along with a $10,000 intrastate bond for brokers operating across state borders. These bonds protect shippers and carriers from financial losses caused by broker non-payment or contract violations. Here’s a breakdown of what the Texas freight broker bond covers, how much it costs, and how to stay compliant.

A freight broker bond guarantees that transportation brokers handle transactions ethically and meet their financial obligations. The BMC-84 is a federal FMCSA requirement, not a Texas-specific law, but the state has additional intrastate bonding rules enforced through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). Together, these regulations ensure both federal and state oversight of freight brokers operating in Texas.

Freight brokers in Texas must comply with federal and state requirements to operate legally. Under FMCSA Broker Registration rules, every broker must hold a $75,000 BMC-84 surety bond or a BMC-85 trust fund agreement to maintain active authority.

Texas brokers must also complete BOC-3 (Designation of Process Agents) filings and secure a valid MC (Operating Authority) number before arranging shipments. For intrastate operations within Texas, the Texas Intrastate Motor Transportation Broker Bond—set at $10,000—is required under the Texas Transportation Code.

Eligibility depends on the broker’s credit score, financial strength, and compliance record. Applicants with stable financials generally qualify for lower premiums and faster approval.

Texas has unique provisions that distinguish it from other states. In addition to the federal BMC-84 requirement, Texas mandates that intrastate freight brokers file a separate $10,000 surety bond with the TxDMV to legally broker loads across state borders. This bond ensures compliance with TxDMV sources and protects against fraud or contract disputes.

The state also requires brokers to maintain updated process agent records through the BOC-3 filing. These agents represent brokers for any legal service claims, ensuring swift communication in case of legal actions. Texas regulators actively monitor broker compliance through both FMCSA and TxDMV systems.

The cost of a Texas freight broker bond depends on the broker’s credit profile and financial background. Sureties typically quote between 1% and 5% of the bond amount annually.

• A qualified applicant with excellent credit might pay around $750 per year.
• Brokers with poor credit or limited business history may pay up to $3,750 annually.

The additional $10,000 intrastate bond has a much smaller cost—usually between $100 and $500 per year. Factors such as business age, experience, and claims history influence final pricing. To explore premium ranges in detail, see Lance Surety’s guide on surety bond cost.

Getting bonded in Texas involves completing both FMCSA and TxDMV filings. Here’s the process:

1. Register with FMCSA – Obtain your USDOT and MC numbers through the FMCSA Broker Registration portal.
2. Apply for the bond – Submit an online application to a trusted surety provider.
3. Provide documentation – You may need to supply identification, business registration, and financial statements.
4. Underwriting review – The surety evaluates your credit score and finances to set a rate.
5. Bond filing – Once approved, your provider files the bond electronically with the FMCSA (Form BMC-84) and, if applicable, with the TxDMV for intrastate operations.
    

Partnering with a licensed surety experienced in how to get bonded ensures every filing meets both federal and state guidelines.

Yes, brokers with lower credit scores can still qualify for a Texas freight broker bond. Many sureties offer tailored programs that accept credit challenges, though premiums will fall toward the higher end of the 5–15% range.

Brokers can improve approval odds by:

• Providing collateral or strong financial documentation
• Paying off outstanding debts or improving credit utilization
• Demonstrating consistent business revenue and experience
   

Lance Surety specializes in helping applicants secure a freight broker bond even with bad credit, often through flexible underwriting and renewal discounts for improved credit.

Both federal and state freight broker bonds must be renewed annually to maintain compliance. Surety providers usually send reminders 30–60 days before expiration, making it easy to renew on time.

If a bond lapses, FMCSA may suspend the broker’s authority, and the TxDMV can revoke intrastate operating privileges. However, both agencies allow a short restoration window once coverage is reinstated. Timely renewal protects your authority and ensures uninterrupted business operations in Texas.

Does Texas require a separate bond from the federal bond?

Yes. Texas requires a $10,000 intrastate freight broker bond for brokers arranging shipments solely within the state, in addition to the federal BMC-84 or BMC-85 requirement.

How long are the Texas Freight Broker Bonds valid?

Each bond, federal and intrastate, is valid for one year and must be renewed annually to remain active. Failure to renew can result in suspension of broker authority.

Can a new broker with no credit history get a bond?

Yes. New brokers with limited credit history can still get bonded by providing additional documentation or working with a surety specializing in first-time applicants. Premiums may be slightly higher, but approval is still possible.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (n.d.). Broker registration. Retrieved from
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/broker-registration

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. (n.d.). Motor Carrier Handbook. Retrieved from
https://www.txdmv.gov/sites/default/files/body-files/Motor_Carrier_Handbook.pdf

Texas Legislature. (n.d.). Texas Transportation Code, Title 6, Subtitle J, Chapter 646. Retrieved from
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/TN/htm/TN.646.htm

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Surety bond cost. Retrieved from
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/learn/surety-bond-cost

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). How to get bonded. Retrieved from
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/learn/how-to-get-bonded

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Online application. Retrieved from
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/surety-bond-quote

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Freight broker bond. Retrieved from
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/license-bonds/freight-broker-bonds