How to get a USDOT number and operating authority

If your trucks haul across state lines, FMCSA needs to know about you. Here's the order things happen in, what each costs, and what holds most new carriers up.

1. 1

   Apply in Motus, FMCSA's registration system

   You apply online and verify your identity with a photo ID and a selfie. The USDOT number itself is free. FMCSA registration

2. 2

   Request operating authority if you haul for hire

   Carrying other people's freight or household goods across state lines needs operating authority (an MC number). The fee is $300 per type of authority. Hauling only your own goods usually doesn't need it.

3. 3

   Get insurance filed with FMCSA

   Your insurer files proof of liability coverage for you: usually $750,000 for general freight, more for some hazardous materials. Household goods movers also need cargo coverage on file. This is the step that takes new carriers longest, mostly because of price.

4. 4

   File a BOC-3

   A process agent company files it for you, naming an agent in every state. It's usually done in a day.

5. 5

   Wait for your authority to go active

   FMCSA publishes your application, waits out a short protest period and checks that insurance and the BOC-3 are on file. Expect a few weeks. You can't haul for hire until it says Active.

6. 6

   Set up drug testing and the Clearinghouse

   If you or your drivers need a CDL, join a drug and alcohol testing program and register in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse before the first trip.

7. 7

   Handle state and yearly filings

   UCR registration every year; IRP plates and IFTA fuel tax if your trucks qualify; an MCS-150 update every two years. FMCSA also does a new-entrant safety audit within your first 12 months.

From FMCSA's published rules and its April 2026 Motus notice. FMCSA changes its systems; follow what the official site shows.