What is a USDOT Number?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all businesses to obtain a USDOT number prior to starting a commercial transportation business. A USDOT number (DOT number) is a unique identification number that allows for instant access to a company’s safety information. This number helps to provide information during inspections, audits, accident investigations, compliance reviews, etc. and must be displayed on every vehicle. The FMCSA DOT number provides the foundation for any other registration that you may need.
Do I Need DOT Authority?
FMCSA DOT numbers are required in specific states for certain business types. A DOT number is required for the following:
- Retains a gross vehicle weight, combination weight, vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight rating, of 4,536 kg (10,001 pounds) whichever is greater.
- It is constructed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (driver included) for compensation.
- It is constructed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, drivers included, and not used to transport passengers for compensation.
- Used to haul the types and quantities of hazardous materials requiring a safety permit in intrastate commerce (see 49 CFR 385.403).
Additionally, you need a USDOT number if your vehicle is used for traffic, trade, or transport in the US:
- Such as, within two places in a State through another State or a place outside of the United States;
- Between a place in a State and a place outside of such State (including a place outside of the United States.
- Within two places in a State as part of a trade, traffic, or transportation starting from or ending outside the State or the United States.
Some states also require their intrastate commercial motor carriers to obtain a USDOT Number. These states include:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- New Jersey
- New York
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Puerto Rico
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
If your business is an intrastate motor carrier, check with your state agency. It is your responsibility as a motor carrier operator or driver to obtain a USDOT number. Furthermore, it is a requirement that you comply with all FMCSA regulations. Safety compliance and safe operations mean to keep lives safe and protected property.
How do I apply for a USDOT Number with DOT Operating Authority
Are you asking yourself “how do I even get a DOT number?” Well, obtaining a USDOT number requires sifting through a plethora of technical information. One checkmark in the wrong box, one miss-crossed “T” or any other simple mistake when specifying your cargo or operation can cost you time and money. We here at DOT Operating Authority urge you to seek our help when applying for USDOT registration. We can walk you through the process of getting your DOT number, MC number, BOC-3, UCR, IFTA, and more stress-free! Our professional staff of consultants can guarantee that your application will be filed correctly and in a timely manner.
Have questions? Call us now at (888) 669-4383 or send an email to info@dotoperatingauthority.com. DOT Operating Authority agents are eager to answer any of your questions or concerns.
Check out the video on the right side for more information on the USDOT Number.
