California Filing Guide
At-a-Glance
Agency: California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Filing types required: California requires motor carriers with intrastate authority to file and maintain proof of liability insurance and, for property carriers with the DMV. The DMV enforces minimum liability limits (split limits or combined single limit) and workers' compensation for carriers with employees.
Forms available: MCP 65 (MC 65 M), MCP 66 (MC 66 M), MCP 67 (MC 67 M), REG 1323, REG 1324, REG 1325
Delivery methods offered: Real-time, direct electronic delivery using Tyler Insurance Filings
Processing note: The MCP 65 and MCP 66 forms are processed through an automated system with responses received in one business day. In contrast, REG 1323 and REG 1325 forms undergo manual review and are processed according to the agency's staffing and workload, which may lead to longer turnaround times.
Filing Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Regulating authority | California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) Operations Division |
| Proof of financial responsibility required | All intrastate motor carriers must have proof of liability insurance on file with the California DMV. Passenger carriers must file proof of liability insurance. Workers' compensation policy information is reported on the MCP 65 form. |
| Accepted insurance forms | Proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation is filed on MCP 65; the corresponding cancellation notice is given on MCP 66. The DMV REG 1323 is used to submit proof of financial responsibility for passenger carriers; the corresponding cancellation form is REG 1325. |
| Who is authorized to submit the filings | Insurance carriers or authorized agents file the required forms on behalf of the motor carrier. Carrier information must match state authority records. |
| How to submit through Tyler Insurance Filings | Insurance filings may be submitted directly to the agency. Electronic submission helps reduce manual handling and supports more efficient submission and tracking. Log in or enroll to start a filing. |
| Coverage timing requirements | Insurance coverage must remain continuous while authority is active. Cancellations or changes require a minimum of 30-day advance notice to avoid authority issues. |
| Policy changes and replacement filings |
MCP 65 forms do not replace MCP 65s already on file. For changes, submit a cancellation before sending a new MCP 65. For changes to a REG 1323, submit a cancellation form REG 1325 before sending a new REG 1323. |
State-Specific Details
Name matching: The legal entity name on the filing must exactly match the name on record with the motor carrier permit application.
Duplicate filing risks:
- A new MCP 65 filing for the same policy number or motor carrier will not replace or overwrite a previous MCP 65 filing. Instead, multiple records will be active in the CA DMV system. An MCP 66 will cancel all existing MCP 65s if they have the same policy number and effective date.
- A 1323 filing will not replace previous 1323. A 1325 will be needed to cancel.
Integration with DMV: The California MCP 65 and MCP 66 forms are submitted electronically to the DMV through an automated process, with responses often provided within one business day.
Identification numbers: Permits are not granted by the California Highway Patrol when CA numbers are issued. File after the motor carrier applies for a permit from the CA DMV.
Policy change procedures: If policy updates are needed, an MCP 66 is needed and then an MCP 65; a REG 1325 filing is needed and then a REG 1323.
How Tyler Insurance Filings Can Help
Centralize filing management: Manage state insurance filings in one place instead of tracking submissions across emails, portals, and paper records.
Reduce manual handling: Electronic submission minimizes rework and duplicate entry.
Improve visibility into submission status: Track filings from submission, with clearer insight into what has been sent and when.
File to multiple states at once: Submit filings to multiple jurisdictions in a single workflow, reducing time spent managing state by state processes.
Track effective dates and renewal timelines: Built-in reporting helps you monitor effective dates, renewal requirements, and upcoming filing needs across states.
Receive feedback on rejected filings: When filings are rejected or require attention, you can receive notes to help identify issues and take next steps more effectively.
Disclaimer
This compilation was developed solely as a resource that might serve as a starting point for research regarding the subjects addressed. It should not be relied upon for any legal or business decisions. This compilation relies upon reported practices of the states and relevant agencies. Actual practices within the states and relevant agencies may vary from what they have reported. While efforts have been made to provide accurate and authoritative information, this compilation does not apply to all lines of business, is only updated periodically, and should not form the sole basis for compliance decisions.