USDOT Registration

USDOT Registration

Start a transportation business with a USDOT Number dedicated for your company.
Apply for USDOT Number.

You Need USDOT # if your company:

  • Uses vehicles weighing over gross 10,000 pounds.

  • Has employees operating commercial vehicles on an interstate.
  • Transports passengers for hire (specifically 9-15 people).
  • Transports more than 15 people for any purpose.
  • Moves hazardous materials of any type.

What is a DOT Number?

If you’re new to the transportation industry, you might not be familiar with a DOT number. Essentially, DOT numbers are a series of digits serving as an identifier for your company, recognized by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).

The FMCSA utilizes this number to oversee your company’s safety record and track compliance information gathered from incidents. Whether you’re involved in transporting cargo, passengers, or hazardous materials, obtaining a DOT number is essential. Typically, these numbers consist of 8 digits.

Free DOT Number
usdot mc number

What is a USDOT Number?

A USDOT number is essentially the same as a DOT number, with the prefix “US” indicating it is an American number. In the trucking industry, these terms are used interchangeably, so when someone mentions a USDOT number, they are referring to a DOT number.

An example of a USDOT number could be USDOT1523020, typically printed on every truck in the company’s fleet. This number is prominently displayed on the cab of the truck, often on the driver’s door.

DOT numbers were introduced by the FMCSA gov to reduce road incidents resulting in loss of life or property damage due to improperly trained drivers or unsafe companies. They achieve this by tracking incidents and accidents caused by specific drivers or companies, with the authority to revoke certification for companies deemed unsafe.

fine

What are the consequences for Non-Compliance?

Operating without an USDOT # poses risks to your business. Carriers operating without DOT Number may face being put Out of Service. Additionally, companies operating without an USDOT Number are subject to fines.

Do I Need DOT Number?

You might be wondering how to determine which type of fleet or vehicle requires a DOT number. There are various rumors suggesting that certain states or companies may be exempt, making it challenging to understand when they are genuinely necessary.

In general, you will need to acquire a USDOT number if you plan to engage in any of the following activities with your company:

  • Uses vehicles weighing over GVWR, GCWR, GVW or GCW of 10,001 pounds (4,536 kg) or more
  • Has employees operating commercial vehicles on an interstate.
  • Transports passengers for hire (specifically 9-15 people).
  • Transports more than 15 people for any purpose.
  • Moves hazardous materials of any type.
  • Operating as a Broker (property, non-exempt commodities), Freight Forwarder, Intermodal Equipment Provider or a Cargo Tank Facility.
truck

You will also need to register a DOT number if you reside in one of the following 39 states where it is mandatory.

Apart from federal regulations, some states require their intrastate commercial motor vehicle registrants to obtain a USDOT Number.

  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Puerto Rico
  • South Carolina
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

Requirements for DOT Numbers from FMCSA gov

Here are the requirements for obtaining a DOT number:

  • Business information (name, location, etc.).
  • Personal information for FMCSA contact purposes.
  • Details about the operation classification you are seeking.
  • Specify whether you will transport people or cargo.
  • A valid address.

The address information entered in the URS is cross-verified with USPS, so it’s crucial to provide a valid address; otherwise, you won’t be able to submit your application. Regarding the operation classification, fees are based on the classification applied for, so research your desired classification thoroughly to avoid unnecessary expenses.

If you encounter difficulties during the application, a chat function is available for assistance from a representative.

After completing the application, you should receive a DOT number within 24-48 hours, unless there is an issue with your application. It’s essential to print or save this number for your records. However, you cannot start operating under that DOT number within 24 hours if you need an Operating Authority (MC); you’ll need to wait approximately 25 days to be granted operating authority.

business men
GET STARTED

Ready to start you commercial transportation business? Apply today and get your business on the road.

REACTIVATION

Need to reactivate your operating authority? Get started today and put your business back on the road.

DEACTIVATION

Going out of business and need to deactivate your authority? We can help you start the process.

usdot mc number

What is an MC Number?

It’s likely that your company will need more than just a DOT number – an MC number (motor carrier number) may also be required. Those in need of an MC number, in addition to a DOT number, typically fall into the following categories:

  • Moving companies transporting customers across state lines.
  • Companies transporting federally regulated goods for a third party across state lines.
  • Companies planning to transport passengers across state lines.

If your company operates solely within one state, it’s unlikely that you’ll need an MC number. Some designated commercial zones are exempt from these regulations, promoting free movement of goods and people. An example is the commercial zone comprising Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

To obtain an MC number, you’ll use the same URS process as for the DOT number. It’s advisable to check if you need an MC number before applying for a DOT number to streamline the process. If you already have a DOT number but discover the need for an MC number, you can easily apply using the same system, with payment option of credit card.

Companies operating vehicles of various sizes and transporting different equipment may require multiple operating certifications under one MC number. Each vehicle will bear the same MC number, even if it operates in a different class. For instance, a truck transporting hazardous materials will have the same MC number, even if its task differs.

green truck

Difference between DOT Number and MC Number

Trying to differentiate between MC numbers and DOT numbers might feel complex. Let’s simplify things by exploring the key differences between these identification numbers.

Appearance of the Number

As mentioned earlier, DOT numbers are consistently displayed on the vehicle cab with the letters USDOT preceding them. In contrast, MC numbers, also found on the cab, are usually shorter and include the state abbreviation where the vehicle operates.

For example, a truck based in California would display a DOT number like USDOT1523020 on the cab door. Below it, the MC number would be seen as CA 309886, indicating the company is registered with the Department of Transportation as a valid Motor Carrier in California.

Meaning of the Numbers

Another distinction lies in what these numbers represent. Possessing a DOT number doesn’t grant immediate authorization to operate as a transportation company; it serves as more of a file number in the FMCSA gov system. On the other hand, an MC number functions as an operating certificate, providing actual permission to operate as a trucking company.

Number of Classifications

Each company, regardless of size, is assigned a single DOT number classification. This classification enables the FMCSA to look up and consolidate all information about the company in one place. In essence, having a DOT number indicates that the government recognizes the company as fleet-driven.

In contrast, MC numbers allow a company to have multiple classifications under a single number, particularly if involved in transporting various types of goods across borders. It’s not uncommon for large companies to hold two or three different classifications within a single MC number.

Cost Consideration

When it comes to the financial aspect of MC versus DOT numbers, it’s all about the bottom line. Obtaining a DOT number for your company comes at no cost. However, if you require an MC number, you’ll incur a fee of $300 for each operational class you need to register with www fmcsa dot gov plus service fees.

Necessity of Numbers

When it comes to who needs DOT and MC numbers, the distinction is clear. If you operate vehicles for profit, having a DOT number is likely a requirement. However, the need for an MC number is more specific. Just because you need a DOT number doesn’t automatically mean you need an MC number. Many companies operating solely within one state may not possess an MC number, even though a DOT number is a prerequisite.

FMCSA Portal, FMCSA DOT GOV Registration

USDOT Number, DOT Registration with FMCSA dot gov

Motor Carrier Number Registration Portal, www FMCSA DOT gov registration

If you plan to operate as a for-hire carrier in interstate commerce, you will likely need your Operating Authority in addition to obtaining a USDOT number. To find out more about see Operating Authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, a single USDOT number is sufficient. This number should be displayed on the side of all your commercial vehicles. USDOT numbers are assigned to individuals or entities for identification with the FMCSA and are granted for a lifetime. The term “person” in this context includes individuals, corporations, partnerships, or other business organizations as authorized by state law.

No, USDOT numbers are non-transferable. They are assigned to specific individuals or entities and cannot be transferred to another person. If there is a change in ownership or structure, a new USDOT number must be obtained for the new owner or entity.

You can update your business name without obtaining a new USDOT number as long as there’s no change in ownership and it’s the same business. Just make sure to register the new name with your base state. You can make updates with MCS-150 Form.