Frequently Asked Questions
Obtaining your USDOT and MC numbers
You need an MC number if you:
• Transport goods or passengers "for hire" (for compensation)
• Cross state lines in your commercial operations
• Act as a freight broker or freight forwarder
Apply online through the FMCSA's Unified Registration System (URS) at fmcsa.dot.gov. You'll need your business information, EIN or SSN, and details about your operation type and vehicle fleet. Make sure its done correct and save thousands by hiring an expert like us at https://truckersauthority.com/prices/
A USDOT number is completely FREE from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). There are no government fees for obtaining your USDOT number. An MC number costs $300 per operating authority type as a one-time fee paid directly to the FMCSA. This fee is non-refundable. However doing it incorrect and without guidance can cost you thousands on startup delays.
An MC number costs $300 per operating authority type as a one-time fee paid directly to the FMCSA. This fee is non-refundable.
A USDOT number is a unique identifier issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for companies operating commercial vehicles. It allows regulators to track safety performance, compliance audits and crash investigations
You need a USDOT number if your vehicle weighs 10,001 lbs. or more, transports 9–15 passengers for compensation, 16+ people regardless of pay, carries hazardous materials, or if you operate in states that require intrastate DOT registration.
Businesses that haul their own freight, transport non regulated commodities, or operate only in states that do not require intrastate DOT numbers may be exempt. However, operating without a USDOT number limits you to intrastate routes; crossing state lines or hauling regulated cargo requires registration.
A USDOT number serves as an identification number used to monitor safety and compliance; it is required for most commercial carriers regardless of route. An MC number (operating authority) allows a carrier to transport regulated commodities or passengers across state lines. While the USDOT number is free, each MC authority costs $300.
Most trucking companies need both. You need a USDOT number if you operate commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs or transport passengers for compensation. You need an MC number if you transport goods or passengers "for hire" across state lines.
The FMCSA plans to streamline registration so that MC numbers are replaced by a USDOT suffix beginning in October 2025. New registrants will receive a USDOT number with a suffix designating authority; existing MC numbers will be phased out over time.
No. Operating without required USDOT or MC numbers can result in fines up to $25,000 and being placed out of service until you obtain proper authority.
When applying online, a USDOT number is issued immediately via email. Paper applications can take up to six weeks.
An MC number requires a 21 day vetting period before it can become active.
An MC number requires a 21 day vetting period before it can become active.
No. Carriers must wait until the authority is approved and insurance filings are complete before hauling loads for hire.
No. USDOT numbers are unique to each legal entity and cannot be transferred. If you sell your business or change ownership structure, you will need to apply for a new number.
Use the FMCSA’s online portal to update your registration information. Updates must be filed every two years or whenever business details change.
Dispatchers who do not operate vehicles or arrange for regulated freight typically do not need their own authority. However, if they act as brokers or carriers they will need an MC number.
Operating without required numbers can result in fines, out of service orders and insurance complications. Always obtain the proper authority before hauling freight.
You can file the forms yourself through the FMCSA. Many carriers use third party services to avoid mistakes; service fees are additional but can save time.
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No. Your MC number covers the legal entity; all vehicles in the company operate under the same authority. Likewise, all company trucks display the same USDOT number.
Common USDOT Issues & Additional Requirements
No you do not need a vehicle in order to obtain your USDOT number and MC number.
No, each business entity can only have one USDOT number. If you have multiple companies, each separate legal entity needs its own USDOT number.
Yes, you can add vehicles to your existing USDOT number by updating your MCS-150 form. You don't need a separate DOT number for each truck.
Depending on the violations, you may receive fines, be placed out of service, or receive a conditional safety rating. You'll need to correct violations and may require follow-up inspections.
Yes, you may need: UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) - annual fee based on fleet size, IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) stickers for multi-state operations, IRP (International Registration Plan) apportioned plates, State-specific permits and registrations, BOC3, Drug and Alcohol, and Clearinghouse business registration.
You may only need intrastate authority from your state, not federal USDOT/MC numbers. However, if you cross state lines even occasionally, you need federal authority.
A USDOT number will always be unique however you can transfer one MC number to another USDOT number.
BOC 3 is a one time filing that remains valid until revoked or the business structure changes. There is no annual renewal, but carriers must file a new BOC 3 if they add states or change agents.
No. HVUT is a separate federal tax payable annually through IRS Form 2290.
FMCSA regulations require all drivers operating under a USDOT number to pass drug and alcohol testing. It ensures safety and compliance and must be in place before drivers start working.
Maintain driver qualification files, hours of service logs, accident reports, maintenance records and drug testing records. Good record keeping helps you pass the New Entrant Safety Assurance Program.