Step-By-Step Guide To Obtaining A DOT Number

Getting a DOT number is one of the first steps if you plan to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines. Many new trucking companies or owner-operators ask how to get a DOT number and what the process actually involves.

The good news is that you don’t need a law degree or years of experience to figure it out. This article breaks it down into clear, manageable steps so you can get moving on the road.

Know If You Need a DOT Number

Before learning how to get a DOT number, you need to know if your business requires a DOT number. If you operate a vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds, transports more than 8 passengers for pay, more than 15 passengers not for pay, or hauls hazardous materials, you're likely required to register. This applies to interstate carriers and, in some cases, intrastate carriers depending on the state.

Many states follow federal DOT rules but also apply their own requirements. For example, intrastate operators in states like New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas may still need a DOT number. Always check with your local Department of Transportation or FMCSA guidelines for confirmation.

Prepare Your Business Information

Before beginning the application, prepare the necessary business details. You’ll need to provide:

• Legal business name

• Physical and mailing addresses

• Business phone and email

• Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (if operating as a sole proprietor)

You should also know your company structure – LLC, sole proprietor, corporation, or partnership. And be ready to declare the types of vehicles you use, how many you operate, and the types of goods or services you haul.

Create a USDOT Account

Before submitting your application, you’ll need to create an account with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Visit the FMCSA Registration website and create a login using your email. Once you're signed in, you’ll access a system called the Unified Registration System (URS).

The URS portal is where you'll complete and submit the actual application for your DOT number. It's designed to guide you through the process based on your business type and activity.

Complete the Application (MCS-150 Form)

The core of the application is the MCS-150, also known as the Motor Carrier Identification Report. This form collects key information about your operations, including:

• The number of vehicles in your fleet

• The types of cargo you transport

• How often do your vehicles cross state lines

• The safety features used in your operations

Be accurate when selecting your operation and cargo classifications, as these determine how your company is regulated. Mistakes can delay processing or trigger additional reviews.

Submit the Application Online

Once the MCS-150 form is complete, it can be submitted directly through the Unified Registration System (URS). There is no fee to apply for a DOT number. In most cases, you will receive your number immediately unless the application is selected for review.

Be sure to keep both a digital and printed copy of the confirmation. FMCSA rules require that your DOT number be displayed on all commercial vehicles in your fleet.

Display Your DOT Number Properly

After receiving your DOT number, it must be clearly and permanently displayed on every commercial vehicle you operate. This is not just a formality; it is a requirement set by the FMCSA. The number must appear in a color that contrasts with the background of the vehicle, be easily readable from at least 50 feet during daylight, and be placed on both sides of the vehicle, typically on the doors.

Avoid using magnets or temporary decals, as these do not meet long-term compliance standards. Permanent lettering or decals are a safer choice and reduce the chance of problems during inspections.

Stay Up to Date with Biennial Updates

Your DOT number isn’t a one-and-done registration. Every two years, you must update your company information through the MCS-150 form. Even if nothing changes, such as no new vehicles or no address updates, you still need to submit the update. The FMCSA uses this data to monitor safety and compliance across the industry.

Missing your biennial update can cause your DOT number to become inactive. In some cases, it may even be revoked. Set reminders or work with a compliance partner to keep your updates on track.

Prepare for DOT Safety Audits

New carriers are automatically placed in the FMCSA’s New Entrant Safety Assurance Program. As part of this program, you will undergo a safety audit within the first year of receiving a DOT number.

During the audit, the FMCSA will review your company’s records, including:

• Driver qualification files

• Hours-of-service logs

• Drug and alcohol testing programs

• Vehicle inspection and maintenance records

Failing to meet these requirements can result in your DOT number being deactivated. Taking the audit seriously and preparing your records in advance can make the process much smoother.

How Express Compliance, LLC Can Help

At Express Compliance, LLC, we work with carriers who want a smoother path to compliance. We know the FMCSA rules inside and out. Our team helps clients from day one, starting with the DOT number application and guiding them all the way through their first safety audit.

We manage registrations, prepare your MCS-150, and handle biennial updates. You don’t have to worry about deadlines or missing paperwork. We also help with BOC-3 filings, UCR registrations, and SCAC codes if your operation requires them.

More importantly, we go beyond the form. Our service includes hands-on support for building compliant driver qualification files, creating a drug and alcohol program, and preparing for safety audits. We take the time to understand your operation, so we can match you with the right tools and documents from the start.

Our goal is to help you stay on the road without setbacks. We treat your business with the same attention we would give our own.

Get Started with Confidence

Getting your DOT number is just the beginning. The road ahead includes rules, paperwork, and inspections, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

Ready to simplify compliance? Contact us today and speak with a DOT expert who understands your business.