Español

Overview

FMCSA monitors and ensures compliance with motor carrier safety (all carriers) and commercial (for-hire, non-exempt carriers) regulations. Companies may be subject to registration requirements for both safety (safety registration) and commercial regulation (operating authority registration). Companies subject to the safety requirements are also required to obtain a USDOT Number.

The FMCSA registration process requires companies to define their type of business operation: Motor Carrier, Broker, Intermodal Equipment Provider (IEP), Cargo Tank Facility, and Freight Forwarder. This determination is based on self-classification using criteria such as cargo, operation, and company type. 

Accordingly, the Agency administers the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) that govern interstate - and some intrastate - commercial trucking and bus industries. 

Steps In The FMCSA Registration Process

1. Determine FMCSA registration needs/requirements:
   • USDOT Number and Hazardous Materials Safety Permit Registration
   • Operating Authority (MC Number)
2. Complete FMCSA Application Process
   • Don't have a USDOT Number or Authority? Apply Online via the Unified Registration System (URS)
   • Already have a USDOT Number or Authority? Apply via the L&I Public Site
   • Insurance Requirements 
3. Determine State notification/registration requirements
4. Begin New Entrant Safety Assurance Program
5. Maintain/Update USDOT Number and Operating Authority information