How do I add passenger authority to an existing MC?
You file a new OP-1(P) application for passenger authority, even if you already hold property authority under a different MC. FMCSA does not "add" passenger authority to an existing property MC — they're distinct authority types. The new OP-1(P) generates a new MC specifically for passenger carriage and goes through its own 21-day vetting window.
Property authority (OP-1) and passenger authority (OP-1(P)) are separately registered under FMCSA. A motor carrier holding property authority that wants to expand into passenger work files a fresh OP-1(P) — same applicant info, but with passenger-specific insurance minimums under §387.33 ($1.5M for ≤16 passengers, $5M for 17+) and the §385.305 new-entrant audit overlay.
The new passenger MC operates under the same USDOT as the existing property authority. SAFER will show two MC numbers under one USDOT: the original MC (for property) and the new passenger MC (for passenger). Each has its own active/inactive status that's independently tracked.
The 21-day vetting window applies to the new OP-1(P) the same way as any new authority. BOC-3 already on file from the property authority typically covers the new passenger authority — the BOC-3 is keyed to the carrier entity, not to specific MC numbers, so a single BOC-3 covers all authority types under the same USDOT.
Insurance is the variable cost. The carrier needs separate BMC-91 filings for the property MC and the passenger MC if both are operated. Some insurers offer combined-coverage policies; others require separate policies for property and passenger operation.