It’s a unique registration number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that allows authorities to monitor your safety records, insurance status, and compliance with transportation laws. Simply put, it’s your business’s license plate in the eyes of federal regulators.
According to the FMCSA, over 700,000 active USDOT numbers exist in the U.S., highlighting its widespread regulatory necessity. It’s clear that this identifier is a foundational piece of the transportation industry’s safety and compliance system. Before you put your first truck on the road, understanding what a DOT number is and why it matters helps ensure your business stays compliant, avoids costly penalties, and builds credibility with customers and partners alike.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the USDOT number, who needs it, how to get it, and why staying compliant is essential for your success in the transport industry.
Key Takeaways
- A DOT number is a unique identifier issued by the FMCSA that tracks a carrier’s safety history, inspections, insurance, and compliance.
- Commercial vehicles crossing state lines, transporting passengers, hauling hazardous materials, or weighing over 10,000 lbs are typically required by law to have a DOT number.
- Customers can look up a company’s DOT number through the FMCSA website to verify legitimacy, review safety records, and confirm operating authority.
- Applying for a DOT number is a fully online process through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System, and approval is required before legally operating a commercial vehicle.
In This Guide:
- What is USDOT Number?
- How to Look up a DOT?
- Who Needs a DOT Number?
- How to Apply for a USDOT Number
- The Step By Step Application Process
- Key Facts to Know About Obtaining a USDOT Number
- Benefits of Having a DOT Number
- Bottom Line
- USDOT Number FAQ
What is USDOT Number?
A DOT number, short for USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number, is a unique identifier issued by the FMCSA. Through this number, the government can track a company’s safety record, perform inspections, and ensure compliance with federal regulations. USDOT numbers must be used by both commercial and private vehicles operating on public roads. The primary objective of the DOT number is to ensure that transport businesses operate safely and responsibly on the road.
You need a USDOT number to legally transport vehicles. The purpose of the USDOT identification number is to quickly identify a motor carrier. The transport companies help authorities monitor safety performance, vehicle inspections, and accident reports through this unique motor carrier DOT number.
Gathering this data helps in maintaining and keeping a check on safety standards in the industry. It protects both the company and its customers. Without this unique identification number, auto transport companies cannot haul loads.
Essentially, the USDOT number is needed for any company that does business in the United States and wishes to access federal highways. Furthermore, advanced load boards will only allow carriers to book loads if all of their paperwork is up-to-date. For these reasons, a USDOT number is necessary to operate a car-hauling business.
How to Look up a DOT?
It is very simple. The USDOT number is located on the license plate of one’s vehicle but can also be found by visiting your local DMV office. You can also look it up online through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) website. Search for the company using the company name, MC number, or DOT number.
If you run a business that requires a USDOT number, regularly checking your safety record is a good way to ensure compliance and address any potential issues. Consumers are advised to check a company’s DOT number before hiring a transport provider to ensure legitimacy and compliance.
Pro tip: Before hiring an auto transport company, checking their DOT number is a smart idea. You can do this through the FMCSA website. All you have to do is enter the company’s USDOT number in the search field, and you’ll have access to the company’s safety records, operating authority, and any violations it might have.
New applicants can register through the Unified Registration System if they still need a USDOT number. Since everything is digitized now, paper forms are no longer accepted for initial applications. However, if your registrations are already in process, you can check for updates. USDOT numbers for drivers wishing to have operational authority must pay $300 before submitting their application. Keep reading to know the process in detail.
Who Needs a DOT Number?
In the auto transport industry, businesses shipping cars across state borders must have a DOT number to ensure they abide by the safety and operational regulations set by the government. The DOT number is a safeguard that benefits both the company and the customers who trust them with their vehicles. Not every business needs a DOT number, but it is a legal requirement.
A USDOT number is required for:
- Commercial vehicles that transport passengers or cargo across state lines or are used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation.
- A vehicle designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, is not used to transport passengers for compensation.
- Vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring a safety permit in intrastate commerce
- Has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating, gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight, over 4,536 kg, or vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds.
- It is also required for vehicles involved in interstate commerce, trade, traffic, or transportation in the United States.
How to Apply for a USDOT Number
Before applying for a USDOT Number, you must determine which type of fleet or vehicle requires a DOT number. In general, you must acquire a USDOT number if you plan to engage with your company in any of the activities mentioned above.
You will also need to register a DOT number if you reside in one of the 39 states where it is mandatory. In addition to federal regulations, some states require their intrastate commercial motor vehicle registrants to obtain a USDOT Number.
The Step By Step Application Process
Applying for a USDOT number is a straightforward process but requires attention to detail. You can apply online through the FMCSA website. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps:
Step 1: Determine if you need a DOT number
Based on your business operations, see if your vehicle falls under the following categories and may require a DOT Number:
- Uses vehicles weighing over GVWR of 10,000 pounds.
- Do employees operate commercial vehicles on an interstate?
- Transports passengers for hire (precisely 9-15 people).
- Transports more than 15 people for any purpose.
- Moves hazardous materials of any type
Step 2: Gather Necessary Information
Collect important information including your company’s details, the types of vehicles you operate, and your safety practices. Here is a checklist for the requirements needed to obtain a DOT number:
- Business information (name, location, etc.).
- Personal information for FMCSA contact purposes.
- Details about the operation classification you are seeking.
- Specify whether you will transport people or cargo.
- A valid address.
Note: The address information provided in the URS is cross-checked with the USPS. So, it is imperative that you provide a valid address; otherwise, you won’t be able to submit your application.
Step 3: Submit The Online Application And Pay Any Applicable Fees
Moving to the operation classification, the costs are based on the classification applied, so properly research your desired classification to avoid unnecessary expenses. If you have difficulties processing the application, the chat function is available where an assistant can guide you.
Step 4: Wait For Approval
The approval can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the volume of applications. Once the application is completed, you will receive a DOT number within 24-48 hours unless there is an issue with your application.
Please print or save this number for your records; it may be needed. However, if you need an operating authority (MC), you cannot start operating under that DOT number within 24 hours; you’ll need to wait approximately 25 days to be granted operating authority.
Key Facts to Know About Obtaining a USDOT Number
As mentioned above, determining whether or not a USDOT number is necessary is a relatively straightforward process, but there are a few challenges associated with the procedure:
Timeframe
When registering for the first time for a USDOT Number, use the Unified Registration System on the FMCSA’s website for immediate verification. You can complete this step by mail or fax, but it can take anywhere between 20-45 days to obtain the number.
Issues With New USDOT Numbers
According to a news release on its website, the FMCSA began granting 8-digit MC numbers instead of 6-digit ones. This may pose a problem for some states, as certain state regulatory websites did not have the time to prepare for the shift.
Note: If your USDOT number is 8 digits long, it may take longer for intrastate registrations to be granted for your vehicle(s).
New Entrant Safety Assurance Program
Before a company can even consider getting a USDOT number, it must complete the New Entrant Safety Assurance Program. This should be done prior to any and all interstate commerce. The program includes, among other things, an initial 18-month monitoring period and a strict safety audit.
Obtaining a motor carrier DOT number is integral to operating a safe fleet that complies perfectly with all state and federal regulations. Follow the guidelines strictly to guarantee you will be granted without extra stress or delays. An 8-digit MC number system is being phased in, which may cause delays for state-level approval in some regions.
Benefits of Having a DOT Number
For The Commercial Owner
For a commercial vehicle owner, the benefits of having a DOT number include:
- Enjoy access to interstate highways: A DOT number is required to operate on interstate highways where you are permitted to access state and local roads.
- Reduced insurance rates: Insurance companies often offer lower rates to commercial motor vehicle operators who have a DOT number.
- Compliance with federal regulations: A DOT number is proof that you comply with all federal regulations for commercial vehicle operation.
- Safety monitoring: The DOT number monitors a company’s safety record, including crash investigations, compliance reviews, and drug and alcohol testing.
For The Customer
There are many benefits for the customer who works with an auto transport company with a USDOT number.
- Regulatory compliance: A DOT number ensures a company is complying with federal regulations and is important for interstate commerce or activities that impact interstate commerce. It reflects commitment to adhering to industry-specific safety standards and regulations, which makes crossing state lines easy.
- Enhanced safety: A DOT number is associated with safety-related metrics such as crash history, inspection results, and state and federal regulations compliance. Continuous monitoring of safety reports can lead to safer operations and reduced chances of life threatening incidents or violations.
- Increased credibility and trust: When the auto transport company has a DOT number, it reflects that it follows all state regulations and its drivers are committed to operating legally and safely within government-mandated parameters.
Bottom Line
A DOT number is crucial in managing essential safety information across various scenarios, including safety inspections, compliance reviews, data collection, and accident investigations. By following the regulations associated with DOT numbers, companies contribute to the safety of both people and property being transported on U.S. highways.
Eventually, a DOT number is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a commitment to upholding safety standards within the auto transport industry.
USDOT Number FAQ
Do all states require a DOT number?
Not all states require a DOT number for intrastate transport (when your business operates only within one state). However, 39 states require it for commercial vehicles, even if they aren’t crossing state lines. Do check with your state’s Department of Transportation for details.
Do DOT numbers expire?
Technically, DOT numbers do not expire. However, companies must update their information with the FMCSA every two years, even if no changes are made.
How long does it take for the USDOT number to be active after applying?
Once you’ve applied for a USDOT number, it generally takes 7-10 business days for it to become active, although the timeframe can vary depending on the FMCSA’s workload.
Are you required to have a DOT number if you ship cars?
Yes, a DOT number is mandatory if you’re shipping cars commercially across state lines. You must check with your local Department of Transportation to determine whether a DOT number is required for intrastate transport.
Are there different types of DOT Numbers?
No, there is only one type of DOT number. However, it may have different requirements and regulations, depending on the type of commercial transportation you provide.
What happens if one operates without a DOT Number?
Operating without a required DOT number can result in fines, penalties, legal consequences, and suspension of your commercial operations.
Do you need both DOT and MC Numbers?
The need for a DOT and MC number depends on the nature of your interstate transportation operations and compliance with federal regulations.
Is there a fee for obtaining a USDOT number?
Yes, there is a fee associated with obtaining a USDOT number. The cost depends on the type of operation and authority needed. The DOT number itself is free; however, you may need to pay fees for other registrations or designations, such as UCR, MC, or expedited DOT.
References
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration-Registering with the FMCSA
- FMCSA – Online Safety Data Sources
- Transport Topics – States That Require DOT Numbers for Intrastate Carriers
- Federal Register: Enhanced Carrier Safety Measurement System (SMS)
- FreightWaves – FMCSA Transitions to 8-digit MC Numbers
