How to Get a USDOT Number (Step by Step)
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Start Your 14-Day Free TrialA USDOT number identifies your company to FMCSA for safety records, audits and inspections.
Who needs one
- Interstate carriers operating vehicles over 10,000 lbs, carrying hazmat that requires placards, or carrying passengers for hire
- Some states also require a USDOT number for intrastate carriers
How to apply
- Go to FMCSA's Unified Registration System (URS)
- Enter your business, vehicle and cargo details
- Apply for operating authority (MC) in the same application if you need it
- Applying for a USDOT number itself has no FMCSA fee
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Keep it active
Update your MCS-150 at least every 24 months, or your USDOT number can be deactivated.
Sources: FMCSA Registration. Last updated 2026-10-29. Rules change; always confirm with the official source.
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Try LOGWAY free
ELD, fuel, factoring and insurance tools for owner-operators and small fleets, in one place.
Start Your 14-Day Free Trial$15/driver/month after trial. ELD hardware $150.