What is a Texas Form E?

Under 43 TAC 218.16(a), a motor carrier registered with TxDMV must file proof of automobile liability insurance "on a form acceptable to the director" for each vehicle required to be registered. TxDMV's motor carrier page names that form: Form E, proof of liability insurance. Household goods movers also need Forms H and I (proof of cargo insurance), and a cancellation is filed on Form K.

TxDMV is explicit that these "are provided by and must be filed electronically by your insurance company underwriter," and that "only your insurance company can file proof of insurance or cancellation." Your job is to make sure your insurance record in the TxDMV system (TxMCCS) shows "Active."

TxDMV lays out the order:

1. You need a valid USDOT number first, registered as intrastate if you run only in Texas.
2. You apply in TxMCCS. TxDMV says initial applications are reviewed within 24 to 48 business hours (about 7 more business days if the carrier is linked to a previous certificate).
3. When the application is approved, you notify your insurer so it can file the required insurance.
4. After the insurer files, you pay fees and TxMCCS issues the certificate number.
5. A current insurance cab card must be kept in each vehicle.

The full list of who has to register and what limits apply is on Texas intrastate truck insurance requirements.

TxDMV says that if your insurance company cancels your policy, you will get an electronic notice 30 days before cancellation, but only if a current email address is on file in TxMCCS. Failing to keep continuous proof of insurance on your certificate can lead to administrative penalties, administrative sanctions, or revocation of your certificate.

Two habits prevent most problems: keep your TxMCCS email current, and when you change insurers, have the new insurer file its Form E effective the same day the new policy starts. For the federal side of a lapse, see what happens if truck insurance cancels.

The two filings do the same job for different regulators. Form E proves coverage to TxDMV for Texas intrastate operations. The BMC-91X proves coverage to FMCSA for interstate for-hire authority. A Texas carrier that runs both intrastate and interstate loads can need both, and they should show the same legal name and matching policy information. Our FMCSA and TxDMV filings guide walks through both.