PRE-FILE YOUR UCR TODAY
What is UCR?
The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) Program is a federally mandated, state-administered system that requires individuals and companies involved in interstate or international commerce to register annually and pay a fee based on the size of their fleet. The program was established under the UCR Act of 2005, replacing the former SSRS (Single State Registration System). The fees collected support state motor carrier safety enforcement programs.If your business operates commercial vehicles across state lines, UCR registration is a must to stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.
You are required to register for UCR if your business operates in interstate or international commerce and falls into one of the following categories:
- Motor Carriers (Operating CMVs across state lines)
- Freight Forwarders
- Brokers
- Leasing Companies
- Private Carriers (Transporting their own goods across state lines)
Who is Exempt?
- Intrastate-only carriers (who operate strictly within one state)
- Carriers using only non-commercial vehicles
- Companies transporting exempt commodities
UCR registration opens in the fall (usually October) for the upcoming year. The deadline to file is January 1st of the registration year.
Step 1: Go to the UCR Pre-Filing Page
Visit our official UCR pre-file portal. https://www.truckopedia.com/unified-carrier-registration-ucr/
Step 2: Enter Your USDOT Number
Type your USDOT Number and select Pre-File Now.
A pop-up form will appear to collect your details.
Step 3: Provide Your Registration Details
Fill in the required information:
- Email address – Used for pre-filing confirmation and reminders.
- Contact number – Direct number in case we need to clarify your filing.
- Carrier classification – Select your business type: Motor Carrier, Motor Private Carrier, Freight Forwarder, Broker, or Leasing Company.
- Total number of vehicles in your fleet – Determines your official UCR fee.
- Authorized company official’s name – The person submitting the filing.
Step 4: Review Your UCR Fee
The system will display your UCR fee payable to FMCSA based on your fleet size.
Save your registration details for your records.
Step 5: Pay the Service Fee
Pay a flat $124.99 service fee (covers 1–100 trucks) via credit card or Google Pay.
This fee is for our pre-filing service and is separate from your official UCR fee payable to FMCSA.
Step 6: We Handle the Rest
Before final submission, we’ll send you a reminder to confirm your details so everything is accurate. Once the FMCSA begins accepting filings on October 1st 2025, we’ll submit the registration on your behalf.
Early Filers Save More
2026 UCR Just $124.99 — No Additional Costs. Lock it in before the rush.
Early Filers Save More
2026 UCR Just $124.99 — No Additional Costs. Lock it in before the rush.
UCR fees are based on fleet size—the number of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) you own or operate across state lines.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- 0–2 Vehicles – Lower-tier fee
- 3–5 Vehicles – Slightly higher
- 6–20 Vehicles, 21–100, etc. – Fees increase with fleet size
Only CMVs that cross state lines are counted. This includes:
- Trucks over 10,000 lbs GVWR
- Passenger vehicles designed to carry 9 or more people
- Vehicles transporting hazardous materials
Missing the UCR deadline can cost your business more than just fees.
Penalties for Non-Compliance Include:
- Fines ranging from $100 to $5,000 per violation, depending on the state
- Vehicle Detention – Your truck could be held at roadside checks
- DOT Audits or Extra Inspections – Increased scrutiny from enforcement agencies
Don’t risk it—register early and avoid disruptions to your operations.
Avoid the Year-End Crunch
Got Questions About UCR?
We’ve Got Answers!
Do I need a UCR if I only operate intrastate?
No. UCR applies only to interstate and international operations.
Do owner-operators need UCR?
Yes, even single-truck owner-operators must register for UCR.
How do I check my UCR status?
Carriers can check their status on https://plan.ucr.gov/ using their USDOT Number.
What happens if I overpay or pay twice?
You may need to contact the UCR board or your state agency to request a refund.
UCR Registration Cost:
Payable to FMCSA, Based on Fleet Size
| Number of Vehicles Owned or Operated |
Fee per Entity (Carrier or Forwarder) |
|---|---|
| 0-2 | $46.00 |
| 3-5 | $138.00 |
| 6-20 | $276.00 |
| 20-100 | $963.00 |
| 101-1000 | $4,592.00 |
| 1001+ | $44,836.00 |
Never Miss Your Filing Deadline
Steer clear of penalties! Get timely reminders in your inbox and stay compliant.
Stuck on a form? Let us help—get in touch now!
Whether you have questions or need help navigating complex requirements, our support team is here to make your compliance journey easier.
