How to Create a Motus Account: FMCSA Registration Guide

FMCSA has moved its registration to Motus, the USDOT Registration System, a centralized platform where motor carriers and other registrants can apply for USDOT Numbers and operating authority, update company information, and complete other registration actions.

The company account must be created or claimed by the Company Official, typically the business owner or an authorized employee responsible for the company’s FMCSA registration. If you already have a USDOT Number, the Company Official should sign in using the same Login.gov email associated with the FMCSA Portal account.

Follow the steps below to create your Motus account, verify your identity, and set up or claim your company’s USDOT registration.

How to Set Up a Motus Account?

Here are the steps to get started with FMCSA Motus and complete the registration process:

Step 1: Pre-Registration Requirements

Before you begin the Motus registration process, make sure you have the following:

• A Login.gov email address: If you already have an FMCSA Portal account and want to claim your existing USDOT number, use the same email associated with the Company Official’s FMCSA Portal account. FMCSA recommends using the same Login.gov email when transitioning an existing USDOT record to Motus.
• A Valid government-issued photo ID: Have a valid government-issued identification document ready for identity verification. Depending on the verification method available to you, this may include a driver’s license, state-issued ID, or passport.
• A camera-enabled device: You will need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera to complete the identity verification process. Login.gov may require you to capture images of your identification document and a live photo as part of verification.
  

Step 2: Create Your Login.gov Account

Create or access your Login.gov account before continuing with Motus. Follow these steps to set up your secure sign-in:

• Access FMCSA Motus: Go to the official FMCSA Motus website and select Sign In Login.gov under Regulated Entities & Supporting Companies.
• Create your Login.gov account: If you do not already have an account, select Create an account, enter your email address, and accept the Login.gov rules of behavior.
• Verify your email: If you create a new Login.gov account, check your inbox and select the confirmation link from Login.gov.
• Create your password: Set a strong, unique password that meets Login.gov’s security requirements.
• Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA): Choose an available authentication method, such as text message, an authentication app, or another supported security method to secure your account.

You only need one Login.gov account to access your Motus user profile.

Step 3. Complete Identity Verification: 

After creating your Login.gov account, complete the required identity verification before continuing with your Motus registration. Keep your government-issued ID and a camera-enabled device ready.

• Authorize information sharing: When prompted, allow Login.gov to share your verified information with FMCSA and follow the identity verification instructions.
• Start identity verification: Follow the prompts to begin the verification process. If you are using a computer, you may be shown a QR code or a link to continue on a camera-enabled device.
• Select your document: Follow the instructions to select your country and the type of government-issued ID you are using.
• Scan your ID: Take a clear photo of the front of your ID, then scan the back when prompted.
• Review and submit your photos: Make sure the images are clear and meet the on-screen requirements before submitting them.
• Complete the facial scan: Follow the prompts to position your face within the designated area and complete the facial verification.
• Return to your original device: Once the verification is complete, return to the device where you started your Motus application and continue.

If Login.gov cannot automatically verify your identity, follow the alternative verification instructions provided. Depending on the verification issue and available options, you may need to complete the process through an alternative or in-person verification method.

Step 4: Set Up Your Motus Profile and Choose Your Workflow

Once your identity has been verified, you’ll complete your Motus user profile. Your Login.gov email will prepopulate in your profile.

Enter:

• Your name: Use the name as it appears on your government-issued ID.
• Your address: Provide the requested address information.
• Your phone number: Enter your current phone number.

Review and accept the FMCSA Rules of Behavior when prompted. Your Motus user profile is associated with you as an individual and can be used to access multiple company accounts, if applicable.

After your profile is complete, Motus takes you to the workflow selection screen. Your next step depends on what you need to do:

If you already have a USDOT number:

Select the option to link an existing USDOT Number and follow the prompts to claim your existing company record. If you are claiming an existing record, the Company Official must use the same Login.gov email associated with the FMCSA Portal account. Motus will bring over your existing company information so you can review, update, and certify it.

If you are registering a new company:

Start a New Registration or the applicable U.S. DOT Wizard workflow and answer the questions about your business and operations. Follow the prompts to provide the information required for your FMCSA registration. FMCSA says new registrations in Motus follow a flow similar to the USDOT Wizard.

If you want a seamless filing experience and none of the hassle:
Motus allows registrants to work with supporting companies that can assist with FMCSA registration and filing activities. You can authorize eMCS-150, a service of Truckopedia to file MCS-150 on your behalf. Your company retains control of its Motus account and registration information while eMCS-150 handles the filing for you. 

We’re Here to Help

Setting up a Motus account can be confusing, especially if you are creating an account for the first time or connecting an existing USDOT record. If you need help with the process, our team is here to assist.

Have questions about creating your Motus account, completing identity verification, claiming an existing USDOT number, or accessing your company profile? Call us at (855) 222-4142, and our team can help you navigate the process.