How a lapse happens
When an insurer cancels a policy, it sends a cancellation notice to FMCSA. If no new filing replaces it before the cancellation takes effect, the authority can be revoked. Unpaid premium is a common cause.
General steps to reinstate
- Bind new liability coverage with an insurer that files
- Have the insurer submit the new filing
- Apply to FMCSA for reinstatement and pay the fee
- Confirm the authority shows active before hauling
How the cancellation notice works
An insurer cannot simply drop a filing overnight. Cancelling a filing requires advance notice to FMCSA, and the notice period depends on the filing type, so ask your insurer or check FMCSA's guidance for the period that applies to you. That window is the time a carrier has to pay a past-due bill or line up a replacement filing before the authority is affected.
If a replacement filing from another insurer is accepted during that window, the old insurer's certificate ends on the effective date of the new one, and the authority stays active. If the window closes with nothing on file, FMCSA can revoke the authority and the carrier has to apply to reinstate it.
What a new insurer will want to see
Underwriters look at why the lapse happened. A missed payment that was cured is viewed differently from a cancellation for losses or violations. Expect questions about recent claims, inspection results, driver changes and whether any trucks ran during the lapse. Having loss runs from the previous insurer speeds up the quote.
Reinstatement also depends on more than liability insurance. If your authority type requires a cargo filing, a process agent designation or other items, those must be current as well. FMCSA's registration pages and your record on its licensing and insurance system show what is missing.
Avoiding a repeat
- Set premium payments to automatic draft or calendar reminders
- Ask your agent to tell you right away about any notice of cancellation
- Bind replacement coverage before the current policy ends when switching
- Check your FMCSA insurance record after every change
Frequently asked questions
Can I run while my authority is revoked?
No. Operating interstate for hire without active authority can lead to penalties and leaves loads uninsured under the filing.
How long does reinstatement take?
It depends on how quickly new coverage is bound, how fast the insurer files, and FMCSA processing. Ask the insurer to file as soon as the policy binds, then watch your record.