Do I Need a USDOT Number?

What is a USDOT Number?

USDOT is an acronym for the U.S. Department of Transportation.

A USDOT number is an identification number that can be used to monitor safety and compliance. If a company is transporting people or cargo from one state to another, that company will require a USDOT number and must register with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Companies that transport hazardous materials intrastate must also obtain a USDOT number.

Who needs a USDOT Number?

The USDOT Number is the United States Department of Transportation Number. This number is required for anyone operating in interstate commerce and meets the following criteria:

  • You have vehicles that are over 10,000 lbs. (GVWR, GCWR, GVW, or GCW) gross vehicle weight rating. That is the gross truck, trailer, and load possible or potential weight combination.
  • If you transport any hazardous materials.
  • If you transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver) for direct or indirect compensation.

A USDOT number is needed for any trade or transportation of people or goods within the United States in the following instances:

  • If a company is transporting people/cargo outside of a particular state.
  • If a company is transporting people/cargo between two places within a particular state.
  • If a company is transporting people/cargo from a state to anywhere outside of the country.

While a USDOT number is a requirement under federal law, several states also require registrants of intrastate commercial motor vehicles to hold a valid USDOT number. Here’s a full list of the states that require these companies to produce a USDOT number on demand.

What Regulations are Associated with a USDOT Number?

To determine what regulations you are required to maintain it’s important to have a plan for how you’re going to operate. Too many individuals simply buy a truck and get a USDOT Number and off they go, all because they used to drive a truck for someone else, they feel they understand what all it entails. Individuals would benefit greatly if they simply see the importance of having a well-thought-out plan combined with asking the right questions. Experienced owner-operators tend to know that the more you start thinking ahead with strategizing, planning, and organizing, the more you’re ensuring that your future endeavors will be successful. 

How Long Will It Take to Get a USDOT Number?

Getting your USDOT Number can be done very quickly. The process is simple and, if done right, you can usually have your DOT fully authorized within two business days.

What Else Might I Need to be Compliant?

Compliance requirements can differ greatly depending on the operation. If you cross state lines you’ll need

If you’re operating a CDL-required vehicle and crossing state lines then you will need:

There are also several state-specific registrations, such as Highway Use Taxes, that you’ll be required to have if you transport through any of those states.

After you’re able to get the compliance end of things squared away, that’ll be a large part of the headache gone. However, most don’t have the time or patience to want to go and do all the digging and research themselves. That’s where FCCR comes in. We’re trained professionals in DOT & FMCSA compliance requirements, rules, and regulations. We quickly determine what you’ll require, regardless of state, operating class, cargo, or carrier operation, and will even fill out the application on your behalf. We go above and beyond for our clients by assigning them their own personal, dedicated agent that they’ll speak with every time they call and who knows their specific situation. 

Who Is Responsible For Obtaining And Displaying A USDOT Number?

Federal law indicates the motor carrier and relevant drivers are responsible for complying with all the above regulations. These laws are enforced to ensure road and passenger safety but also to protect property and instill a clear set of principles to follow.

As for how to comply with these laws, a USDOT filing must be visible on both sides of the vehicle. This number must be in a contrasting color and visible from a distance. Any non-compliance will mean both the driver and carrier are liable.

The fact you are reading this article means that you will most likely need a USDOT number. And why not get one? After all, registering for this number is free, and we all know the importance of public and road safety.

FCCR

We can file your DOT number for you. Our goal is to simplify the complex world of DOT compliance and make it easy and less time-consuming for the owner-operator. Driving shouldn’t be something you fear, it should be something you enjoy and look forward to. FCCR makes driving simple, by simply letting us worry about the paperwork so that you can enjoy the drive again!

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