How To Get A DOT Number?

Starting a trucking business comes with several critical steps — and one of the most important is getting your USDOT number. Whether you’re launching your first carrier operation or expanding your existing fleet, securing a Department of Transportation (DOT) number is essential for maintaining legal compliance and ensuring smooth operations.

A DOT number is a unique identifier for your trucking business that allows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and other authorities to track safety records, inspections, and overall compliance. You must have a DOT number if you operate in interstate commerce, transport hazardous materials, or meet specific weight and passenger thresholds.

While entering the trucking industry might seem overwhelming, the DOT registration process is more straightforward than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to get a DOT number — including eligibility, application steps, and compliance requirements.

What is a DOT number?

A DOT number, also called a USDOT number, is a unique numeric identification number issued by the FMCSA. It serves as a federal tracking system for commercial motor carriers that operate in interstate commerce — and in some cases, intrastate carriers transporting hazardous materials, passengers, or operating certain vehicles that must meet and comply with FMCSA requirements and thresholds.

Your USDOT number functions as your company’s federal safety ID. It allows the FMCSA to monitor your safety performance, compliance records, vehicle inspections, and crash investigations. Every time your commercial vehicle undergoes audits or inspections, the data is logged and results are recorded under this single unique identifier to maintain accountability and promote national safety standards.

Who needs a DOT number?

A DOT number is more than paperwork. It’s a legal requirement for many trucking and transportation businesses. You’ll need to apply for a DOT number if any of the following apply:

• Your vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), or Gross Combination Weight (GCW) of 10,001 pounds or more
• You transport hazardous materials that require a safety permit
• You operate a vehicle designed or used to carry 9 or more passengers (including the driver) for compensation, or 15 or more passengers (including the driver) not for compensation, across state lines
• You’re engaged in interstate commerce

Even if you don’t yet own a truck, you can still apply for a DOT number, as it is assigned to your business rather than a specific vehicle.

Do I need a DOT number?

How to obtain a DOT number?

If you’re planning to operate a commercial vehicle, here’s a quick and easy guide to help you get your USDOT number. Whether you’re starting a new trucking business or updating an existing registration, follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine DOT number eligibility

Before you apply, make sure your operation meets the FMCSA requirements. You need a USDOT number if:

• Your vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), or Gross Combination Weight (GCW) of 10,001 pounds or more and operates in interstate commerce
• You transport hazardous materials that require federal placards
• You operate a vehicle designed or used to carry 9+ passengers (including the driver) for compensation, or 15+ passengers not for compensation, across state lines
• You operate in interstate commerce in any commercial capacity

Step 2: Gather the required information 

Before applying for a USDOT number, gather all the necessary information about your business to make the process smoother:

• Business information: Legal business name, physical location, and contact details that the FMCSA can use to reach you.
• Business operations: Clear description of your operations, including the type of services you provide.
• Operation type: Your business classification (for-hire, private, or exempt) and your operating scope (interstate or intrastate).
• Cargo classification: Types of goods you transport and whether you handle hazardous materials (hazmat).
• Business size: Total number of employees and drivers.
• Vehicle information: Number and type of vehicles in your fleet, including whether they are owned, leased, or trip-leased, along with their gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).
• Identification numbers: EIN or SSN (must match IRS records)
• Driver information: Number of commercial drivers, their licenses (CDL), and whether they operate interstate or intrastate.
• Valid address: A current, verifiable address that the FMCSA can confirm with the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Step 3: Access the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS)

Head to the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) — the official online portal for DOT registration.

• Visit fmcsa.dot.gov and navigate to the “Register for a USDOT Number” section.
• Create an account and log in to start your application.
• Follow the instructions

The system will guide you through determining whether you also need an MC number (Operating Authority) or Unified Carrier Registration (UCR), depending on your operation type.

Step 4. Complete the MCS-150 form (Motor Carrier Identification Report) 

The MCS-150 form is the backbone of your USDOT number application — this is where you provide all the key details about your trucking business. Here’s what you’ll need to include:

• Business information: Enter your company’s legal name, contact details, and identification numbers (EIN or SSN). Ensure everything matches IRS records to prevent delays.
• Operation classification: Specify whether your business operates interstate or intrastate and if you’re a for-hire, private, or exempt carrier. Choosing the right classification is crucial for meeting FMCSA and state compliance requirements.
• Fleet details: Provide accurate information about your vehicles — including how many you have, their types, and their gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). Weight classifications determine which federal safety regulations apply to your operation.
• Cargo type: Indicate the type of freight you’ll be hauling. If you transport hazardous materials, additional permits and safety certifications will be required.
• Driver information: List your drivers, especially if more than one operates under your USDOT number.

Accuracy is critical, and any mismatch with IRS or state records can delay approval.

Step 5: Submit and confirm the application

After reviewing your form, submit it through the URS portal. Here’s what happens next:

• Submission confirmation: Right after submission, you’ll receive an on-screen confirmation from the FMCSA showing that your application has been successfully received. It’s a good idea to take a quick screenshot for your records as it’ll serve as proof for future reference, just in case you need.
• Email acknowledgment: Within a few hours (or up to a day), the FMCSA will send an official confirmation email. This email verifies that your application is in their system, so keep it safe — you’ll need the details for tracking your status.
  

Once approved, your USDOT number will be issued and must be displayed on all vehicles under your company’s authority. If your application is still pending after several days, contact FMCSA directly with your confirmation details for assistance.

Note: Once you have obtained your DOT number, it’s essential to maintain compliance with FMCSA regulations to avoid penalties and ensure the safety of your operations. Check if you need to register under:

• Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) – Required for most interstate carriers.
• State-level permits – Depending on where your company is based and operates.
• Hazardous materials permits, if applicable.

These additional registrations ensure your trucking business operates legally across all jurisdictions.

How to check the status of your USDOT number?

Once you’ve applied for a USDOT number, it’s important to confirm that your registration is active and compliant. You can easily check the status of your DOT number using the FMCSA’s online DOT Number Lookup tool on their website.

By entering your company name, USDOT number, or MC number, you’ll be able to view details such as whether your status is active, inactive, or pending approval.

If your status shows as pending, it usually means the FMCSA is still processing your application, or additional information is required.

How much does it cost to get a DOT number?

Getting a USDOT number is completely free of charge. The FMCSA does not require any payment to issue the number itself. However, depending on your type of operation and where you conduct business, you may still face other related expenses.

For example, some carriers must pay fees for additional registrations, such as the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) or other state-specific permits. If your company hauls hazardous materials, there may also be extra costs for safety certifications or special permits.

How long does it take to get a USDOT number?

The time taken to receive your USDOT number largely depends on how you apply. If you submit your application online through the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS), your number is typically issued immediately after submission. However, while it’s assigned right away, it may take up to 20 business days before your registration becomes fully active for interstate operations.

If you choose to mail your application, processing can take significantly longer—up to six weeks in some cases. Applications that require special permits, safety reviews, or additional documentation may also experience delays. To avoid delays or setbacks, make sure all the information you provide is accurate and complete.

Can you get a DOT number without a truck?

Yes — you can apply for a USDOT number even if you don’t yet own a truck. Many new carriers start the registration process before purchasing or leasing vehicles. The USDOT number is assigned to your business, not to a specific vehicle, so it identifies your company as a motor carrier rather than linking directly to a truck.

This is especially useful for new trucking companies that are in the process of setting up operations or waiting to add vehicles to their fleet. When completing your application, make sure to provide accurate details about your planned operations, including the types of vehicles and cargo you expect to manage. 

Simplify the DOT number application process

Getting a USDOT number is a crucial first step for any trucking business, whether you’re just starting or expanding your fleet. While the process may seem complex at first, understanding each step—from registering with the FMCSA and completing required forms to fulfilling additional compliance requirements like UCR or hazardous materials permits—makes the process much smoother.

By preparing your information in advance and following the correct procedures, you can secure your DOT number efficiently, stay fully compliant with federal regulations, and minimize the risk of delays or penalties. A clear approach to DOT registration sets the foundation for safe and legal operations, ensuring your trucking business runs smoothly from day one.