How to Get a USDOT Number and MC Operating Authority

Who needs a USDOT number?

You need a USDOT number if you operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce. Under 49 CFR 390.5T, a vehicle counts if it meets any one of these tests:

• A GVWR, GCWR or actual weight of 10,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater
• Designed or used to carry more than 8 passengers, including the driver, for pay
• Designed or used to carry more than 15 passengers, including the driver, not for pay
• Hauling hazardous materials in amounts that require placards

Do I need an MC number too?

If you haul regulated freight for hire across state lines, you also need operating authority, often called an MC number. Private carriers hauling their own goods usually need only a USDOT number. You apply for authority as part of your FMCSA registration. Most new property carriers apply for motor carrier authority.

The filing fee is $300 for each type of authority, under 49 CFR 360.3T. FMCSA does not refund application fees.

Are MC numbers going away? FMCSA has proposed ending MC numbers and using the USDOT number as the only ID. As of October 2026, that has not happened. In its April 29, 2026 Federal Register notice, FMCSA said the launch of its new Motus registration system would not include eliminating MC numbers. Any change would come in a later rulemaking with a chance for public comment. For now, plan on having both.

BOC-3, insurance and the protest period

After you apply, FMCSA publishes your application in the FMCSA Register. That starts a 10-day protest period when anyone can object. Your authority isn't active until FMCSA approves your application, your filings are on record and the protest period ends.

You have 90 days from publication to get two filings in. If you miss the deadline, FMCSA dismisses your application and you lose the fee.

• BOC-3: names a process agent in each state who can accept legal papers for you. A blanket company usually files it for you.
• Insurance: your insurance company files proof of coverage, usually Form BMC-91 or BMC-91X. A certificate of insurance doesn't count.
• Under 387.9, for-hire carriers of general freight in vehicles of 10,001 pounds or more need at least $750,000 in liability coverage. Some hazmat loads need $1,000,000 or $5,000,000.

UCR, IFTA and IRP basics

Interstate carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies must register with the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) plan every year. The fee is based on your fleet size. You must register before January 1 of each registration year.

IFTA and IRP are run by your home state. IFTA handles fuel tax and IRP handles apportioned plates. Both generally apply to power units with two axles over 26,000 pounds, three or more axles, or combinations over 26,000 pounds. You file IFTA reports every quarter.

Many states also have their own rules for carriers that never leave the state, including state DOT numbers. We check what your state requires.

Keeping your USDOT number active

You must update your MCS-150 every 24 months, under 49 CFR 390.19T. The month comes from the last digit of your USDOT number. The year comes from the next-to-last digit: odd means odd years and even means even years. If you miss it, FMCSA can deactivate your USDOT number. During the move to Motus, FMCSA has temporarily paused enforcement of biennial updates until further notice. Don't skip yours.

Updates now go through Motus at motus.dot.gov. You sign in with Login.gov and verify your identity.

What happens after you get authority: the new entrant program

Once you start operating, you are a new entrant for 18 months. FMCSA watches your roadside inspections and runs a safety audit once you have enough records, generally after at least 3 months.

Some violations fail the audit automatically, under 385.321. Examples include having no drug and alcohol testing program, no required insurance or using a driver without a valid CDL. Set up your drug testing, driver files, logs and maintenance records before your first load.