USDOT Registration

USDOT Number registration portal for all entities, including motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders.
Apply for USDOT Number.

If you already have a USDOT Number:
Add an Operating Authority (MC/FF/MX number)
Update, Reactivate or Deactivate with MCS-150

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.

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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.
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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
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

If you already have a USDOT Number and would like to add an Operating Authority (MC/FF/MX number), please CLICK HERE to get started.

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.