Simple Compliance with
FMCSA Rules

You must obtain a USDOT number before operating any commercial vehicle that meets FMCSA’s requirements. This number is required if your vehicle is involved in interstate commerce and meets one or more of the following conditions:

• It weighs 10,001 pounds or more
• It is designed to carry 8 or more passengers for compensation, or 15 or more passengers without compensation
• It is used to transport hazardous materials in quantities that require placards

If any of these apply to your operations, you’re legally required to get your USDOT number before your vehicle hits the road.

• You’re starting a new trucking business that hauls freight or passengers
• You’ve just bought or leased a commercial vehicle that meets the specified weight or cargo requirements
• You’re switching from intrastate to interstate operations
• You’re hauling loads across state lines
• You’re registering for an MC Number, IFTA, IRP, or other trucking credentials that require DOT verification
• Your state requires a USDOT number even if you solely handle intrastate commerce

Applying for a USDOT number is free online through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS). You’ll need to provide key details, including business information (EIN or SSN), Vehicle details (GVWR, number of vehicles, whether you transport hazardous materials), Operation type (interstate or intrastate, for-hire or private), and Insurance information (if required for your type of operation).

Note: Applications must be submitted online—paper forms are no longer accepted for new USDOT numbers. They are only used to update existing registrations.

Step By Step Guide to Apply for a New USDOT Number

Visit the FMCSA URS Portal at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/unified-registration-system

1. Create an Account. Enter your business and personal details
2. Select Registration Type. Choose the type of operating authority you need: Motor Carrier (MC), Freight Forwarder (FF) or Broker (MX)
3. Enter Business Information. Legal business name, EIN/SSN, and contact details.
4. Vehicle and Operation Details. Enter the type of commercial vehicle and operation.
5. Safety Certification and Compliance. Agree to FMCSA’s safety regulations and insurance requirements.
6. Pay Registration Fees (if applicable). Fees apply if you’re requesting operating authority.
7. Receive Your USDOT Number

There are two separate things involved when registering with the FMCSA:

1. USDOT Number – You get this right away after submitting your application. It serves as your unique identifier for safety and compliance tracking.
2. Operating Authority (MC Number) – If you need operating authority (for example, to haul loads for hire across state lines), that requires additional approval. The FMCSA will review your application, and the process can take several days to weeks before your authority becomes active.

Obtaining a USDOT Number is completely free when you register through the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS). Registration generally takes less than an hour to complete online.

If your business requires operating authority—also called an MC Number—you’ll need to pay a non-refundable $300 fee per authority type to the FMCSA.

Keep in mind: getting an MC Number isn’t just about paying the fee. You must also submit proof of insurance and file a BOC-3 form (which designates legal agents in each state). These steps must be completed before you’re legally allowed to start operating with your authority.

Many third-party companies offer services to help carriers apply for USDOT and MC Numbers. While these services can be helpful for those unfamiliar with the process, they often charge an extra service fee, in addition to any official FMCSA charges.

If you ignore your USDOT Number obligations, you’re putting your business at risk, including

• Fines up to $10,000 for operating without proper registration,
• Your USDOT number can be deactivated, which means your trucks can be grounded,
• Issues renewing your IRP, IFTA, or insurance policies, and
• You can get flagged at weigh stations, roadside checks, and audits, increasing the chance of inspection and violations

Non-compliance can also impact your CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) score, making it harder to receive desired loads, negotiate fair rates, and secure competitive insurance premiums. 

All carriers registered with the FMCSA must file a biennial update using Form MCS-150 every two years, even if none of their business details have changed. You’re also required to update your USDOT information any time there’s a change to your business, fleet, or operations.

This update is mandatory even if you’re no longer operating interstate or have stopped operating entirely but haven’t officially notified the FMCSA. Failing to file the biennial update can lead to your USDOT number being deactivated, your carrier status marked inactive or out of service, and lead to costly penalties.