USDOT Number: Who Needs It, What States Require It, How To Display It, and How To Get One
Everything you need to register, mark vehicles correctly, and keep your record compliant.
A USDOT number is required for most commercial motor carriers operating in interstate commerce. Whether you need to apply for USDOT number registration or update an existing one, this definitive guide for service fleets and passenger carriers covers who must have a USDOT number, which states require one for intrastate carriers, how your number must be marked on vehicles, and the exact steps to apply for a USDOT number and keep it active.
Who needs a USDOT number
You need a USDOT number if you operate in interstate commerce and any of the following apply.
- Any vehicle or combination with GVWR, GCWR, GVW, or GCW of 10,001 pounds or more
- Vehicles designed or used to transport 9 to 15 passengers, including the driver, for compensation
- Vehicles designed or used to transport 16 or more passengers whether for compensation or not
- Any vehicle hauling placardable hazardous materials
Interstate is trade or transport that crosses a state line or is part of a shipment that started or ends out of state. Learn more about USDOT number requirements from FMCSA.
States that require a USDOT number for intrastate carriers
Beyond the federal rules, many states require a USDOT number even if you never cross state lines. The following jurisdictions require intrastate USDOT numbers:
Always verify with your state agency if you have a unique operation or specialty vehicle.
How your USDOT number must be displayed on vehicles
- What to show: Legal name or a single trade name exactly as on your registration, plus your identification number preceded by USDOT.
- Where: On both sides of the self propelled CMV power unit.
- Visibility: Letters must contrast with the background and be readable from 50 feet in daylight while stationary. There is no federal inch requirement. Use sizes that meet the 50 foot rule. See 49 CFR 390.21 for complete marking requirements.
- Condition: Paint or a removable device is allowed. Keep markings clean and legible.
- "Operated by": If any other name appears on the vehicle, add operated by followed by the operating carrier's legal or trade name and USDOT number.
- City and state not required on the marking.
- Trailers: The rule applies to self propelled CMVs. Intermodal equipment providers have separate marking options.
How to apply for a USDOT number
You apply for a USDOT number online through FMCSA's Unified Registration System. Here is the exact process.
- Confirm you need a USDOT number. Review whether you also need Operating Authority.
- Gather what you will enter: legal name and any single trade name as it should appear on the truck, FEIN or SSN, business structure, addresses, owners and officers, operation classification, cargo classes, HM status if any, vehicle and driver counts, and estimated mileage.
- Create or sign in with Login.gov to access the FMCSA URS application.
- Start the URS application (MCSA‑1). Use USDOT only if you do not need interstate Operating Authority. If you are for hire interstate for passengers or federally regulated commodities, add Operating Authority and be ready for BOC‑3 and insurance filings.
- Enter details carefully. Use the exact legal name that will be displayed on vehicles. If a USDOT already exists, file an update rather than a new application.
- Review, attest, and submit. Online USDOT numbers are typically issued immediately after submission. You get on screen confirmation and a letter by mail.
- Finish next steps:
- If you applied for Operating Authority, complete BOC‑3 and have insurance filed. Authority activates after vetting.
- If you will operate interstate, complete UCR and any required state programs.
- Mark your vehicles on both sides with the legal or single trade name and USDOT #######, high contrast, readable from 50 feet.
- Plan your biennial MCS‑150 update by the month tied to your USDOT last digit and the odd or even year rule.
What happens after you get your USDOT number
Receiving your USDOT number is just the beginning. Here's what you need to know about maintaining compliance and staying active.
Immediate next steps
- Display your number on vehicles within the timeframe specified by FMCSA. Use high-contrast lettering readable from 50 feet on both sides of each power unit.
- Complete insurance filings if you have Operating Authority. Your insurance provider must file proof of coverage with FMCSA.
- Prepare for the New Entrant Safety Audit if you're a new interstate carrier. FMCSA typically conducts this audit within 12 months of your first operations.
- Register for UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) if operating interstate. This is an annual requirement separate from your USDOT number.
Ongoing compliance requirements
- Biennial MCS-150 update: Update your company information every 24 months during your assigned month. Missing this deadline results in automatic deactivation.
- Maintain your safety program: Keep driver qualification files, vehicle inspection records, hours of service logs, and drug and alcohol testing documentation current.
- Report changes immediately: Update your registration within 30 days if your business name, address, type of operation, or other key information changes.
- Stay current on renewals: UCR, insurance filings, state permits, and other credentials must be renewed on their respective schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a USDOT number if I only operate within one state?
Maybe. Many states require intrastate carriers to obtain a USDOT number. Check the state list above and verify with your state agency if you have a unique operation.
What do I put on the truck door and where does it go?
Display your legal name or a single trade name exactly as on your registration, plus your identification number preceded by USDOT. Place the marking on both sides of the power unit. It must contrast with the background and be readable from 50 feet in daylight while stationary.
How big do the letters need to be?
There is no federal inch requirement. Use a size that is high contrast and readable from 50 feet. Many fleets choose 2 to 3 inch lettering to meet this standard.
Do I have to display my MC number on the truck?
No. Vehicle markings require your legal or single trade name and your USDOT number. City and state are not required.
How long does it take to get a USDOT number?
Online URS applications typically issue the USDOT number immediately after submission. You receive on screen confirmation and a letter by mail.
Is there a fee to get a USDOT number?
The USDOT number itself is free through FMCSA. If you also apply for Operating Authority, FMCSA charges an application fee per authority type.
How often do I update my USDOT record?
At least every 24 months by your assigned month and year pattern, and any time your information changes. Missing the update can lead to deactivation and penalties.