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Obtaining a USDOT number is the first required step for operating a commercial motor vehicle in regulated transportation. The USDOT number identifies your company and connects all your inspections, violations, and safety performance to your USDOT CSA safety score. Because this number becomes the foundation of your compliance record, it is important to understand exactly how to apply, what information you need, and what happens after receiving it.
Below is a clear outline that explains where to go, how to apply, and what to expect during the process. These steps also help set the stage for keeping your CSA score strong from your very first day as a motor carrier.
How to Obtain a USDOT Number
Applying for a USDOT number is done through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s online Unified Registration System. To complete the process correctly, you must have accurate information about your business, vehicles, and type of operation.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your DOT Number
1. Prepare your business information
Before starting the application, gather the required details to get a USDOT number:
- Legal business name and DBA if applicable
- Employer Identification Number or Social Security Number if you are a sole proprietor
- Business address and contact details
- Number of drivers and number of vehicles you operate
- Vehicle Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
- Types of cargo you will transport
- Whether you operate as a private carrier or for-hire
- Whether you plan to operate interstate or intrastate
Having this information ready makes the application much easier to complete.
2. Go to the FMCSA registration portal
You will access the FMCSA Unified Registration System and create a login. This portal is where all new applicants file for their DOT number. The system will guide you through the necessary forms electronically.
3. Complete the online application
You will enter your operation classification, cargo categories, company structure, and fleet details. This section is very important because the FMCSA uses your responses to determine which regulations apply to you.
Accuracy matters here. Any incorrect information may result in delays or a faulty compliance setup that affects your future safety record.
4. Submit the application
Once all information is complete and reviewed, you submit the online form. If everything is correct, your USDOT number is issued immediately. You will receive it on your confirmation screen and by email.
5. Mark your vehicle
After receiving your USDOT number, place your company name and the number on both sides of your commercial vehicle in clear, contrasting letters. This is a required part of compliance.
6. Begin building your safety and compliance systems
Your DOT number becomes active right away, which means your safety compliance begins on day one. Recordkeeping, driver qualification files, vehicle maintenance logs, and drug and alcohol testing (if CDL drivers are used) must be in place.
Your early compliance efforts will influence your USDOT CSA safety score since this score is built from every inspection and enforcement interaction tied to your DOT number.
What Is the Cost to Get a USDOT Number
The USDOT number itself is free when you apply through the FMCSA. There is no filing fee to receive it. However, carriers should plan for the surrounding costs that come with launching a compliant operation. These may include insurance, BOC-3 filing if operating for hire, vehicle markings, safety program setup, and the administrative cost of correcting mistakes if the application is not completed properly. While the number has no price, the overall cost of starting a compliant trucking operation can vary depending on your business structure and service needs.
How Long Does it Take to Receive Your DOT Number
When filing electronically through the FMCSA system, you receive your DOT number immediately upon submitting a complete application. There is no waiting period for the number itself. However, your responsibilities begin as soon as it is issued.
New carriers enter the New Entrant Safety Program, which involves a required safety audit within the first year. Preparing early helps ensure that your USDOT CSA safety score starts strong.
How Long is a USDOT Number Good For
A USDOT number does not expire. Once your business is registered, the number remains assigned to you for as long as your company is active. Even if your fleet changes size or your operation type evolves, the same number stays with your business.
How Often Do You Renew Your USDOT Number
Although the number itself does not need renewal, the information tied to it must be updated every two years. This update is called the biennial update. It verifies that the FMCSA has your correct address, vehicle count, business structure, and operation type. Missing this update can result in your DOT number being deactivated.
How Do I Keep My DOT Number Active
Keeping your DOT number active requires staying compliant on a daily basis. Here are the most important practices:
- Maintain accurate driver qualification files
- Ensure vehicles receive proper inspections and maintenance
- Follow hours of service rules
- Participate in a drug and alcohol testing program if required
- Keep your DOT number displayed properly on all power units
- Submit your biennial update on time
Staying compliant not only keeps your DOT number active but also protects your USDOT CSA safety score. Because this score begins building from your very first inspection, new carriers should take compliance seriously from day one. Many carriers choose to use a service like Truckers Authority to avoid errors and create a strong compliance foundation early.
