DMV 706 Form – The DMV 706 Form (officially titled Motor Carrier Permit Application Instructions) provides detailed step-by-step guidance for completing the Application for Motor Carrier Permit (MC 706 M). This form is required for obtaining, renewing, reinstating, or modifying a California Motor Carrier Permit (MCP). The official instructions PDF is available for download here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2020/05/mcp706app.pdf.
California law mandates an MCP for most commercial operators transporting property for compensation or operating qualifying vehicles on state highways. The California DMV administers the program, while the California Highway Patrol (CHP) handles safety compliance.
What Is the DMV 706 Form and Why Is It Important?
The DMV 706 is not the application itself but the comprehensive instruction booklet that explains how to fill out the MC 706 M application form correctly. It covers every section, required supporting documents, fee calculations, and certifications needed for eligibility.
All MCP applicants must:
- Complete the application in full.
- Pay required fees (including the non-prorated Carrier Inspection Fee or CIF).
- Provide proof of liability insurance.
- Submit workers’ compensation proof or exemption.
- Certify compliance with programs like Controlled Substance and Alcohol Testing (CSAT) and Employer Pull Notice (EPN).
Incomplete or incorrect submissions are returned, delaying operations. The instructions were last revised in 2016 but remain the official guide linked on the DMV website.
Who Needs a California Motor Carrier Permit (MCP)?
You need an MCP if you operate as a:
- For-hire carrier transporting property for compensation (any vehicle size, including motorcycles used by couriers).
- Private carrier with vehicles having a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,001 lbs or more.
- Operator of vehicles transporting hazardous materials.
- Operator of vehicle combinations longer than 40 feet.
- Carrier requiring drivers with a Commercial Driver License (CDL).
Exemptions include:
- Household goods or passenger carriers under PUC authority.
- Non-commercial pickup trucks under certain weight limits.
- Two-axle daily rental trucks (non-commercial).
- Personal-use trailers (campers, utility trailers).
New carriers must obtain the MCP before beginning operations.
How to Apply for an MCP: Online (Preferred) or By Mail?
Online Application (Recommended)
Most carriers now apply, renew, or reinstate online for faster processing.
- Visit the DMV Motor Carrier Permit Application page.
- Have your Carrier Identification (CA#) and exact business name ready.
- Use bank routing/account details or credit/debit card (2.3% service fee applies).
- Submit basic info and receive an email link to the full form.
Mail Application (for new carriers without online access)
- Obtain a CA# from the CHP (complete CHP 362 Motor Carrier Profile).
- Download and complete MC 706 M using the DMV 706 instructions.
- Gather all required proofs and fees.
- Mail to: Department of Motor Vehicles, Registration Operations Division, PO Box 932370 – MS H875, Sacramento, CA 94232-3700.
Processing typically takes up to 30 days. A receipt and permit are mailed upon approval.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing the DMV 706 / MC 706 M Form
Follow these sections exactly as outlined in the official DMV 706 instructions PDF:
Section 1 – Type of Application
Choose: Original, Reinstatement, Renewal, Seasonal Original/Renewal, or Seasonal Extension.
Section 2 – Legal Name/Business Entity
Select Individual, Corporation, LLC, or Partnership and provide required identifiers (SSN/FEIN, corporation number, officers, etc.). Include business phone.
Section 3 – Doing Business As (DBA) Names
List all trade names and attach a current Fictitious Business Name Statement if applicable.
Section 4 – Principal Place of Business
Provide physical business address (no PO Box) and mailing address if different.
Section 5 – Transportation Activities and Section 6 – Type of Vehicle(s)
Check all that apply.
Section 7 – Operating Authority Identification Numbers
Interstate carriers must list USDOT/MC numbers, report California vs. total miles, certify FMCSR/HMR compliance, and confirm UCR payment.
Section 8 – Controlled Substance and Alcohol Testing (CSAT)
Certify enrollment or exemption.
Section 9 – Employer Pull Notice Program (EPN)
Choose EPN Number Required, Owner Operator, or EPN Not Required. Provide requester code or agency details if applicable. CDL-required operations generally need enrollment.
Section 10 – Vehicles Operated
List fleet size (power units only) and provide license plates + full VINs for all vehicles. Indicate For-Hire or Private use.
Section 11 – Employees (renewal/reinstatement only)
Report employee counts and salary ranges for fleets of 20+ vehicles.
Section 12 – Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Provide proof (MC 65 M or equivalent) or certify exemption. Must match legal name in Section 2.
Section 13 – Fee Calculations
Use charts based on fleet size, For-Hire/Private status, and intrastate/interstate miles. Add full CIF. Seasonal permits have monthly prorated options + $5 extension fee.
Later sections cover insurance certification, signature under penalty of perjury, and mailing instructions.
Required Documents and Supporting Proofs
- Liability Insurance: Certificate of Insurance (MC 65 M) or Self-Insurance (MC 131 M) meeting minimum limits ($300,000–$5,000,000).
- Workers’ Compensation: Certificate or exemption certification.
- EPN Requester Code (if required).
- CA# from CHP.
- Vehicle List (plates + VINs).
- Fictitious Business Name Statement (if using DBA).
Understanding Fees and Payments for MCP Application
Fees depend on fleet size (power units only) and operation type (For-Hire vs. Private). They include base fees + full CIF. Interstate carriers prorate base fees by California mileage but pay full CIF and receive non-expiring permits.
Current full-year intrastate examples (as of latest handbook):
- 1 vehicle (For-Hire): $250 total
- 1 vehicle (Private): $165 total
- Larger fleets scale up significantly.
Seasonal fees are prorated monthly (minimum 6 months) with one-time CIF. Delinquency penalties apply for late payments. Pay online via bank or card; mail applications require check/money order.
Renewal, Reinstatement, Seasonal Permits, and Changes
- Renewal: Use online process or MC 134 M. Courtesy notices direct to online renewal.
- Seasonal: 6–11 months only (intrastate For-Hire only); extensions available for $5 + monthly fee.
- Reinstatement: Full new application + $150 fee after suspension/revocation.
- Changes: Use MC 152 M for minor updates (name, address, DBA); new CA# and application for ownership changes.
Common Questions About the DMV 706 Form and MCP (FAQs)
- Can I apply online? Yes — it’s the fastest method.
- Do I need a CA# first? Yes, from CHP for mail applications.
- Is workers’ comp required even for family-only employees? Yes.
- What is the BIT program? CHP selects terminals for inspection based on data (not fixed schedule).
- When do I receive my permit? Allow up to 30 days.
For the complete list, visit the official MCP FAQs.
Tips for a Successful MCP Application
- Use the exact legal name and CA# shown on your MCP.
- Double-check all vehicle VINs and insurance names.
- Keep a copy of everything.
- Review the full MCP Handbook for fee charts and updates.
- Apply early — do not operate without an active MCP.
- Contact DMV MCP Operations at (916) 657-8153 or CHP for CA# questions.
For the most current information, always refer to the official California DMV Motor Carrier Services pages. The DMV 706 instructions ensure your MC 706 M application meets all eligibility requirements for a Motor Carrier Permit. Start your application today via the DMV website to avoid delays.