Texas intrastate broker bonds.
From $100.

A Texas intrastate motor transportation broker — arranging in-state freight without interstate FMCSA authority — files a bond with the TxDMV under Transportation Code Chapter 646. The standard amount is $10,000; premiums start from $100 with one soft credit pull that never affects your score.

✓

Filed with the TxDMV under Transportation Code Chapter 646 for in-state freight brokering

✓

Standard $10,000 amount — for brokers operating without interstate FMCSA authority

✓

Soft credit pull only — never affects your score, and pricing is variable by bond amount, from $100

From $1001% of the bond amount, $100 minimumSoft pullnever affects your scoreInstantissued the moment you pay

Trusted by industry leaders

How it works

Three steps. One sitting.

Enter your amount, consent to one soft pull, and file with the TxDMV. Here is the whole thing:

TODAY · ONLINE

Apply online

Your business details, the bond amount (standard $10,000), and the effective date — plus a one-time consent to a soft credit pull.

RIGHT AWAY

Approved

Most are approved as soon as you apply. The credit check is a soft pull that never affects your score. If it needs a second look, one to two business days at most.

SAME DAY

File with the TxDMV

Submit the executed bond with your motor transportation broker registration. Wet-ink originals mailed whenever the TxDMV insists.

About this bond

What it is and who needs it.

What the broker bond actually covers

A motor transportation broker arranges transportation of property for compensation without operating the trucks. A broker handling intrastate Texas freight without interstate FMCSA authority registers with the TxDMV under Transportation Code Chapter 646, which conditions the registration on a surety bond.

The standard amount is $10,000, with faithful-performance language and a 30-day cancellation notice (TxDMV rules at 43 TAC § 218.41). The bond assures carriers and shippers that the broker will meet its payment obligations and follow Texas transportation law.

It is not insurance for you — if the surety pays a claim, you repay the surety. Note that interstate freight brokers instead carry the federal $75,000 BMC-84 bond filed with the FMCSA; this Chapter 646 bond is the Texas intrastate equivalent. Operating without it is a Class C misdemeanor under § 646.004.

Tex. Transp. Code ch. 646 (43 TAC § 218.41)Texas Transportation Code Chapter 646 requires an intrastate motor transportation broker to file a surety bond with the TxDMV; the standard amount is $10,000. TxDMV rule 43 TAC § 218.41 specifies the $10,000 figure, faithful-performance language, and a 30-day cancellation notice. Interstate brokers instead file the federal $75,000 BMC-84 bond with the FMCSA. Confirm your required amount on your TxDMV registration.

You need this bond if you are

✓

An intrastate Texas freight broker arranging in-state loads without interstate authority

✓

Registering with the TxDMV as a motor transportation broker under Chapter 646

✓

A household goods broker arranging in-state moves and required to bond

✓

Renewing your broker registration and keeping the $10,000 bond in place

One application, then a quick review.

Submit the application with your bond amount (standard $10,000) and a one-time soft credit consent — most issue when you pay.

Start the application →

FAQ

Common questions.

How much is the Texas intrastate broker bond?The premium is 1% of the bond amount, with a $100 minimum. The standard amount is $10,000. If the TxDMV requires a higher amount, enter it at the application to see your exact price.

Is this the same as the federal freight broker bond?No. Interstate freight brokers carry the federal $75,000 BMC-84 bond filed with the FMCSA. This is the Texas intrastate broker bond under Transportation Code Chapter 646, for brokers operating only within Texas without interstate authority.

Is there a credit check?Yes — one soft credit pull, which never affects your score. It informs approval only.

What happens if I broker without the bond?Operating as an intrastate motor transportation broker without the required bond is a Class C misdemeanor under Transportation Code § 646.004, and the TxDMV can take registration action. The bond keeps your registration valid.

Where do I file it?With the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV), as part of your motor transportation broker registration. We issue the executed bond ready to submit.

Which A-rated carriers underwrite these bonds?Typically Arch Insurance Company (A.M. Best A+) or Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company (A.M. Best A). Which one writes your bond depends on the bond type and your state. The carrier's name and official signature are printed on the bond you receive.

How do I contact Light RFP about this bond?Email insurance@lightrfp.com. It reaches the bond team at Light RFP Risk Management Services LLC (NY DFS License # PC-1978982). Write to us about quotes, applications, bond forms or certificates. We will respond within 24 hours.

Related bonds

Other Texas bonds.

Broker bond, issued today.

Premiums from $100, one soft pull. Enter the standard $10,000 (or your required) amount and see your exact price.

Start application

Your premiumfrom $100

Apply now →