- USDOT Number Registration
- Operating Authority
- BOC-3 Filing
- UCR Registration
- MCS-150 Biennial Update
- Clearinghouse Registration
USDOT Registration
USDOT Number registration portal for all entities, including motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders.
Apply for USDOT Number.
If you already have a USDOT Number:
Add an Operating Authority (MC/FF/MX number)
Update, Reactivate or Deactivate with MCS-150
What is a DOT Number?
If you’re new to the transportation industry, you might not be familiar with a DOT number. Essentially, DOT numbers are a series of digits serving as an identifier for your company, recognized by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). The FMCSA utilizes this number to oversee your company’s safety record and track compliance information gathered from incidents. Whether you’re involved in transporting cargo, passengers, or hazardous materials, obtaining a DOT number is essential. Typically, these numbers consist of 8 digits.
USDOT Registration FAQ
What is a DOT Number?
A USDOT number is a federal identifier issued by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) — a 1 to 8 digit unique number that follows your company across every interaction with the agency. It anchors your safety record, crash and inspection history, audit results, and compliance status. Any commercial operator hauling cargo, transporting passengers, or moving hazardous materials in interstate commerce is required to obtain one and display it on every qualifying vehicle.
When do I need a DOT Number?
You’re required to register for a USDOT number if your operation meets any one of the following criteria:
- Vehicles with a GVWR, GCWR, GVW, or GCW of 10,001 pounds (4,536 kg) or more
- Employees operating commercial vehicles in interstate commerce
- Transporting passengers for hire — 9 to 15 people
- Transporting more than 15 people for any purpose
- Moving hazardous materials of any type
- Operating as a Broker (property, non-exempt commodities), Freight Forwarder, Intermodal Equipment Provider, or Cargo Tank Facility
Even one vehicle crossing state lines under any of these conditions triggers the requirement.
USDOT Number for each truck/vehicle?
No — one USDOT number covers your entire fleet. The number is issued to the company, not the vehicle. You’re required to display it on both sides of every commercial vehicle you operate, alongside your legal company name. If you also hold an MC (operating authority) number, the same display rule applies.
What do I need to get a DOT Number?
The application takes a few minutes once you have the following ready:
- Business information — legal name, DBA if applicable, and principal address
- Owner or officer contact details for FMCSA correspondence
- Operation classification — the type of carrier authority you’re seeking
- Whether you’ll be transporting passengers, property, or both
- A valid physical address (PO Boxes are accepted as a mailing address only)
What if I want to make changes to my current DOT Number?
USDOT records are kept current through the MCS-150 update — used to change company information, deactivate a number, or reactivate one that has lapsed. Head over to our MCS-150 Form to start the update.
Do I need a USDOT number for intrastate operations?
Federally, USDOT numbers are required only for interstate commerce. However, many states — including California, Florida, Texas, New York, and others — require intrastate commercial carriers to register for a USDOT number as well. The exact trigger (vehicle weight, hazmat, passenger count) varies by state. Check your state’s commercial vehicle regulations before assuming you’re exempt.
Ready to Register?
Complete your USDOT Number registration today. Simple, fast, and federally compliant.