
To become a freight broker in Texas, you'll need to obtain a freight broker license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA is the governing body responsible for regulating the freight industry in the United States.
The freight broker license cost in Texas is $300, which is a one-time fee that must be paid when you submit your application. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and issuing your license.
To apply for a freight broker license in Texas, you'll need to fill out the Unified Registration System (URS) application, which can be found on the FMCSA website. The URS application requires you to provide detailed information about your business, including your company name, address, and contact information.
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Texas Freight Broker License Requirements
To get a freight broker license in Texas, you'll need to meet a range of requirements. First, you'll need to obtain a few key numbers: an OP-1 number, an EIN number, a USDOT number, and an MC number.
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You'll also need to get liability and cargo insurance, as well as a freight broker bond (BMC-84). This is a crucial step in the process.
To apply for a freight broker license, you'll need to pass the Brokerage Authority Test and maintain compliance with regulations.
Here are the key steps to obtain a freight broker license in Texas:
- Get knowledge and training to become a freight broker through programs like Brooke Transportation Training Solutions.
- Apply for a license with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Obtain a $10,000 surety bond or trust fund.
- Wait about four to six weeks for the application to be processed.
Note that you'll also need to register your business and obtain a U.S DOT number, which can be done through the Department of Transport. Additionally, you'll need to take out general liability and cargo insurance for your business.
Costs and Training
If you're looking to become a freight broker in Texas, you'll need to consider the costs and training involved. The cost varies depending on the training program and licensing fees.
Brooke Transportation Training Solutions offers an affordable six-month freight broker training program for $1,050, taught by a former VP of national accounts for a major truckload carrier.
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To gain advanced training, consider becoming certified through the Transportation Intermediaries Association, which offers the Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) Program for $1,050 for members and $1,325 for non-members.
Atex Freight Broker Training, Inc. offers training in El Paso, TX, and Freight Movers School offers in-person or online classes, but the cost is not specified in the article.
Some colleges in Texas, including Brookhaven College in Dallas and University of Houston, offer the six-month freight broker training program through ed2go, but the cost is not mentioned in the article.
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Financial and Business Considerations
Becoming a freight broker in Texas requires some upfront costs. The total cost can vary depending on the training program and licensing fees.
You'll need to register your business, which costs $300, and obtain a freight broker license, also $300. These are mandatory expenses, totaling $600.
A freight broker bond is another mandatory requirement, with a cost of $2000. You'll also need to consider insurance, which can cost up to $1500.

Optional costs include equipment and software, which can add up to $2400. Training is another optional expense, costing $900.
Here's a breakdown of the costs:
- Business registration: $300
- Licensing: $300
- Freight broker bond: $2000
- Insurance: $1500
- Equipment: $1000
- Software: $2400
- Training: $900
Keep in mind that only $2600 of these costs are mandatory, so it's possible to become a freight broker with just this amount. However, the optional costs are often essential for success in this field.
Houston and Texas Specific Information
In Texas, you'll need to register your business entity with the state agencies and get a Certificate of Formation and an EIN number. This will involve choosing a business structure, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC, and registering your business name with the Texas Secretary of State.
You'll need to obtain a USDOT number from the FMCSA, which is a unique identifier for interstate operations and is used to track your business activities and compliance. You can apply for a USDOT number online through the FMCSA's website.

The Texas DMV may require you to pass a broker authority test to demonstrate your knowledge of industry regulations, business practices, and compliance requirements. To prepare for the test, you can attend freight broker training courses, including the FMCSA's freight broker training on regulations and guidelines.
A freight broker surety bond or trust fund agreement is required to demonstrate sufficient financial responsibility, with a bond amount of $75,000. You'll need to provide proof of this financial security when applying for your freight broker license.
Houston Salaries
In Houston, the average freight broker salary can vary due to numerous factors, from the number of loads moved to negotiations and industry relationships.
Experienced and successful brokers often earn substantially more through expertise and building strong industry relationships.
In Texas, freight broker salaries can differ from state to state, just like in other states.
The number of loads moved and negotiations play a significant role in determining a freight broker's income in Houston.
What They Earn
Freight brokers in Texas can earn a decent income, especially if they're willing to put in the work. Nationwide, freight brokers who work as employees earned a base salary of $48,590 in 2018.
Indeed.com estimates that freight brokers in Texas earn $66,066 in 2020. This is significantly higher than the national average.
Freight brokers in Texas also earn additional commission payments, with Indeed.com estimating $28,400 in commission payments.
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Is Becoming Worth It?
Becoming a freight broker can be a game-changer for those willing to put in the effort. Absolutely, freight brokering is a thriving and profitable industry with excellent earning potential and significant opportunities for growth.
The industry's growth potential is undeniable, with a thriving market that's always in demand. Freight brokers play a crucial role in connecting shippers with reliable carriers, making them essential to the supply chain.
With the right training and licensing, you can unlock a lucrative career with a freight broker license. The freight brokering industry is a great choice for those who enjoy working independently and have excellent communication skills.
In Texas, the freight brokering industry is particularly lucrative, with many opportunities for growth and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need to start a freight brokerage?
To start a freight brokerage, you'll need to budget for a freight broker bond, which costs between $1,500 to $3,750 annually, based on a $75,000 bond amount. This initial investment is a crucial step in launching your freight brokerage business.
How much does a freight broker course cost?
The cost of a freight broker course is $199.99, a one-time investment that can lead to a lucrative career in the logistics industry.
Sources
- https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/blog/how-to-get-freight-broker-license-in-texas
- https://www.freightbrokerscourse.com/freight-broker-license-in-texas/
- https://freightagentschools.com/texas/
- https://suretynow.com/post/how-much-does-it-cost-to-become-a-freight-broker
- https://www.loadtraining.com/freight-broker-training-houston/
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