USDOT Number Registration
Everything you need to know about obtaining your USDOT Number for commercial motor vehicle operations
Start Your USDOT ApplicationWhat is a USDOT Number?
A USDOT Number is a unique identifier assigned by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. This number is used for tracking safety information, compliance reviews, crash investigations, and audits.
The USDOT Number serves as a "license plate" for your trucking company, allowing the FMCSA and other regulatory agencies to monitor your safety record and ensure compliance with federal regulations. It must be displayed on both sides of your commercial vehicles.
Important: A USDOT Number is NOT the same as an MC Number. The USDOT Number tracks safety compliance, while an MC Number (Motor Carrier Authority) grants permission to transport goods or passengers for hire in interstate commerce.
Do I Need a USDOT Number?
You need a USDOT Number if your commercial vehicle operations meet any of these criteria
Vehicle Size
Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more
Passenger Transport
Vehicles designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation
Large Passenger Vehicles
Vehicles designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver) not for compensation
Hazardous Materials
Vehicles transporting hazardous materials in quantities requiring placarding under federal regulations
Interstate Commerce
Any commercial vehicle operating across state lines in interstate commerce
Intrastate Hazmat
Vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring safety permits, even for intrastate operations
FMCSA Requirements for USDOT Numbers
Information and documentation you'll need to complete your registration
Required Information
- Legal Business Name and DBA (if applicable)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) or SSN
- Principal Business Address
- Type of Business Entity (LLC, Corp, Sole Prop)
- Contact Information (Phone, Email)
- Owner/Officer Information
Operation Details
- Number of Power Units (Trucks/Tractors)
- Number of Drivers
- Types of Cargo Transported
- Type of Operation (Interstate/Intrastate)
- Vehicle Types in Fleet
- Hazardous Materials (if applicable)
MCS-150 Biennial Update Requirement
Once you have a USDOT Number, you are required to update your registration information every two years using the MCS-150 form. This update is based on the last digit of your USDOT number:
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Operating without a valid USDOT Number can result in severe penalties
Heavy Fines
Up to $16,000+ per violation for operating without registration
Out-of-Service Orders
Your vehicles can be placed out of service until compliance is achieved
Legal Action
Civil and criminal penalties may apply for continued violations
CSA Score Impact
Violations negatively affect your safety rating and insurance rates
States Requiring USDOT Registration
Many states require a USDOT Number even for intrastate (within state) operations
All 50 states require USDOT Numbers for interstate commerce. Additionally, most states require USDOT Numbers for intrastate commercial vehicle operations that meet federal size and weight thresholds.
* Requirements may vary. Contact your state's transportation department for specific intrastate requirements.
Ready to Get Your USDOT Number?
Our streamlined process makes registration quick and easy. Get started today and be on the road legally.