Apply for a DOT Number: What You Need to Know Before You Start

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – FMCSA

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, or the FMCSA, was established in January 2000 as an integral part of the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT). The FMCSA regulates the trucking industry in the United States, with the primary objective of improving the safety of commercial motor vehicles and truck drivers that operate them. The goals of the FMCSA are attained through enacting and enforcing safety regulations. Any company that serves commercial motor vehicles carrying passengers or hauling cargo between states must register with the FMCSA and obtain a Number.

What happens when a company registers with FMCSA?

When a company that conducts business across state lines or carries passengers between states registers with the FMCSA, it must obtain a number. The USDOT Number is unique to each company. This number tracks the data regarding a company’s safety information obtained through audits, inspections, compliance reviews, and accident investigations.

Upon application, any first-time carrier will automatically enroll in the FMCSA New Entrant Safety Assurance Program. The entrant will not receive permanent registration status until they have been in the program for 18 months. The new entrants must pass a safety audit within the first 90 days during this initial period. Additionally, the company must maintain acceptable roadside safety performance during the probationary period.

Why do I need a USDOT Number?

Thirty-one states also require a number for commercial vehicle registrants regardless of whether or not their business is conducted between states. Those states are Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New York, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

It should be noted that obtaining a USDOT number is unnecessary if a company operates strictly as a broker or freight forwarder.

How do I get my USDOT Number?

Companies can apply for a Number by going to the FMCSA website, www.fmcsa.dot.gov, for information. You can also reach the FMCSA by calling their toll-free number, 1-800-832-5660. Each state also has a local Department of Transportation or FMCSA field office. You must complete the provided forms, including the MCS-150 or MCS-150 B. Online registration is encouraged by the FMCSA, but a docket number and PIN will need to be obtained before registering. The FMCSA assists with online registration with a helpful step-by-step guide that can be found on their website.

What do I do with my USDOT Number?

When a company obtains a number, it must be visibly displayed on every commercial motor vehicle within its fleet, which is required by law to display the number. Because the purpose of the USDOT Number is to track safety data, it allows the average driver an identifier to locate the company and report unsafe operators. Vehicles operating with faulty or dangerous equipment can also be reported to the company to which the USDOT Number belongs. The number provides a universal mechanism for reporting unsafe driving actions and any safety issues related to a commercial motor vehicle.

How Do I Find a Company’s USDOT Number?

The U.S. Department of Transportation has a website that allows users to search by number. If you have a number and want to receive information about the company to which the number belongs, you can go to http://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx to obtain that information. Type in the number in the search box and ensure the number option has been selected.

Understanding USDOT Number Requirements for Box Trucks

If you're operating a box truck, knowing whether you need a USDOT number is essential. Generally, if your vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more and is used for interstate commerce, you must obtain a USDOT number. This applies even if you're not crossing state lines but are involved in trade or transportation that affects interstate commerce. Additionally, some states mandate USDOT numbers for intrastate operations, so checking your state's specific requirements is crucial. Failing to comply can result in fines and operational delays.

Displaying Your USDOT Number Correctly

Once you've obtained a USDOT number, proper display on your commercial vehicle is mandatory. The number must be clearly visible on both vehicle sides, typically on the doors. The lettering should contrast with the vehicle's surface and be at least two inches in height to ensure readability from 50 feet away. Incorrect or obscured displays can lead to penalties during inspections.

The Application Process for a USDOT Number

Applying for a USDOT number involves registering through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Unified Registration System (URS). You'll need to provide detailed information about your business, including the types of vehicles operated, the nature of cargo transported, and operational classifications. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays. There's no fee for obtaining a USDOT number, but additional permits or operating authorities may require payment. After submission, you'll receive your USDOT number, which must be maintained and updated as necessary.