One of the most important aspects of starting a trucking business is the daunting task of registering with the correct local and federal agencies. Only then can you be sure that you’re fully qualified to operate and have all the necessary certifications in place to run a safe, legal business.
While that process can vary a bit based on the location of your operation, a critical first step towards getting and staying certified for carriers who plan on making interstate hauls is registering with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for a USDOT number. Fortunately, although this process can seem complicated for newcomers, DOT registration is far simpler than it appears.
Dive into what you need to know about FMCSA registration and how to get a DOT number below.
What is a DOT number?
In the United States, companies and individuals who operate commercial vehicles to either transport passengers or haul cargo for interstate commerce—along with carriers who specialize in the interstate transportation of all hazardous materials that require a safety permit—must register with the FMCSA. The FMCSA exists to regulate and ensure safety for commercial motor vehicles, including working to reduce injuries, crashes, and fatalities associated with large trucks and buses.
This is where the DOT number comes in. While most carriers will have to apply for other certifications in addition to their DOT number and keep those certifications current, a major part of the FMCSA registration process involves applying for and obtaining a USDOT number. Your USDOT number acts as an identifier for collecting and monitoring all of your company’s safety information during everything from inspections to audits, compliance reviews, and even crash investigations.
Do I need a DOT number?
The short answer is: most likely, yes.
Understanding how to obtain a DOT number is crucial for any carrier transporting goods, passengers, or hazardous materials across the U.S. Additionally, most states require all intrastate (within state borders) commercial motor vehicle registrants to obtain a USDOT number.
For interstate operations, knowing how to get a DOT number is a vital step toward compliance. Vehicles requiring USDOT registration include those that are used for the interstate transportation of hazardous materials that require a safety permit, are designed to transport more than 8 passengers (including drivers) for compensation, or are designed to carry more than 15 passengers including the driver without collecting compensation. Additionally, any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 10,001 pounds needs carrier registration.
The FMCSA defines interstate transport as any vehicle involved in trade, traffic, or transportation either between a place within a state to another state, between two places within a state that require travel through a second state, or transport from outside the U.S. to a state within the U.S., which means that you’re almost certain to need a DOT number before you can get your trucking business off the ground.
How to get a DOT number in 5 steps
If you’re wondering how to obtain a DOT number, here’s a straightforward process to follow. Whether you’re a new carrier or updating your existing registration, these steps will help you navigate the application:
- Determine your eligibility: Verify if your operations require a DOT number based on vehicle type, weight, and transport activities.
- Register with the FMCSA. Visit the FMCSA website and start the online registration process.
- Complete the application (MCS-150 Form). Fill out the MCS-150 form accurately, including details about your business, vehicles, and operation type.
- Submit payment (if applicable). While obtaining a DOT number itself is free, other registrations, like the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR), may incur fees.
- Verify registration status. After submitting the application, check your status to ensure your DOT number is active.
How do I apply for a DOT number?
Let’s dive deeper into how to get a DOT number. Applying for a DOT number involves a few key steps to ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations. The process begins by determining your eligibility and gathering the necessary information. You’ll need to know specifics about your business, including the type of vehicles you operate, the cargo you transport, and your company’s legal structure. Understanding these details will help you accurately complete the FMCSA’s MCS-150 form, which is required for the application.
Next, go to the FMCSA’s online registration portal, where you’ll start the application process. Create an account, log in, and follow the prompts to fill out the MCS-150 form. Be prepared to provide information about your company’s operations, such as whether you transport passengers or hazardous materials, and details about your fleet’s size and weight. It’s important to fill out the form thoroughly, as any mistakes can delay the approval process.
Once your form is submitted, you may also need to register for the UCR and meet any state-specific requirements. After completing the submission, monitor your application status to confirm your DOT number becomes active, allowing you to legally operate.
How much does it cost to get a DOT number?
Learning how to obtain a DOT number is important, and the process itself is free. The FMCSA does not charge any fees for issuing a DOT number. However, while obtaining the DOT number itself is cost-free, carriers may still encounter other expenses related to mandatory registrations.
For instance, depending on your operation type, you might need to pay fees for additional registrations like the UCR or fulfill state-specific requirements. Businesses transporting hazardous materials may also incur costs for special permits and safety compliance. These additional steps are crucial for staying compliant and can vary based on your business’s needs and the states where you operate.
How long does it take to get my USDOT number?
When you’re figuring out how to get a DOT number, timing is an important factor. The approval process can be quick if you apply online. In most cases, you’ll receive your DOT number immediately after submitting your application through the FMCSA website. However, while the number is issued right away, it may take up to 20 days for it to become fully active and authorized for interstate operations. However, if your forms are mailed in, it can take up to six weeks for you to get your number.
If your application requires additional review—such as when registering for special permits or certifications—the process might take longer. It’s important to submit all information accurately to avoid delays. Understanding how to obtain a DOT number and preparing the necessary documents in advance can help speed up the process and ensure compliance without setbacks.
How do I check the status of my USDOT number?
After learning how to get a DOT number and submitting your application, it’s crucial to verify the status of your registration to ensure it’s active. To check your DOT number, simply use the DOT number lookup available through the FMCSA website.
The search results will show whether your DOT number is active, pending, or requires additional action. If your status is pending, it may mean your application is still under review or some issues need to be resolved. Regularly checking the status ensures that you stay on top of any updates and can address potential issues promptly.
Can I get a DOT number without a truck?
Yes, it’s possible to get a DOT number without owning a truck. When figuring out how to get a DOT number, many people assume they need to have a vehicle ready for use, but that’s not the case. The DOT number is tied to your business as a carrier or transportation company, not to a specific truck. You can apply for and obtain a USDOT number even if you are in the planning stages of your business and have not yet purchased or leased any vehicles.
This approach can be beneficial for new businesses that are still finalizing their equipment or waiting to acquire trucks. The key is to ensure that when you fill out the application, you accurately describe the type of operations you plan to undertake, including the vehicle weight classifications and the type of cargo you intend to transport.
Understanding the DOT number application process
Securing a DOT number is a fundamental step for starting or expanding a trucking business. The process requires registering with the FMCSA, completing various forms accurately, and addressing any additional registration needs, such as the UCR or specific permits for hazardous materials. While the DOT number itself is free, these extra steps are critical to ensuring compliance and operating legally on the road.
Successfully navigating the process can be challenging, but understanding each requirement helps carriers set up their business correctly and avoid potential delays.
Simplify the DOT number application process with DAT
Don’t let the complexities of how to get a DOT number slow down your business. With DAT Authority, you get expert guidance to streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays. Our experienced team handles the details, from registration to compliance, so you can meet all requirements quickly and efficiently.
Let our decades of industry know-how help you secure your trucking authority and get on the road faster. Start your journey with confidence—reach out to DAT today!
