How to Get a USDOT Number in 2026: Using FMCSA's Motus Registration System Guide

USDOT Registration Guide

Last updated: July 2026. This article reflects FMCSA registration information available at the time of publication.

Getting a USDOT number changed in 2026. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration now uses Motus: USDOT Registration System for new USDOT number applications, operating authority applications and registration management.

If your business is preparing to operate a commercial vehicle, this guide explains what to check before applying, what information to gather and how to complete the new registration process without relying on outdated instructions.

Bottom line Start with the FMCSA USDOT Wizard to identify the registration your operation may need. New applicants then create a Login.gov account, complete identity verification, establish a company account and submit the appropriate application through Motus at motus.dot.gov. FMCSA does not charge a fee simply to obtain a USDOT number, although operating authority and other registrations may have separate fees.

What is Motus?

Motus is FMCSA's modernized USDOT registration system. It replaced the Unified Registration System, commonly called URS, as the place to begin a new USDOT number or operating authority application.

Motus is also designed to become the central location where registered companies manage their FMCSA information. Depending on the registration and account, users may be able to:

Apply and register

Apply for a new USDOT number, operating authority or another applicable FMCSA registration.

Manage company information

Update business information, submit biennial updates and review company records.

Control account access

Manage authorized users through individual user profiles and company-account permissions.

Track registration actions

View registration information and follow the status of actions submitted through the system.

If you already have a USDOT number, do not submit an application for another one simply because the system changed. Existing registrants retain their current USDOT numbers and the company official can claim the existing record in Motus.

Before applying: determine what registration you need

A USDOT number and operating authority are not the same thing. Some businesses need only a USDOT number, while others need a USDOT number plus one or more types of operating authority.

USDOT number

A unique identifier FMCSA uses to collect and monitor a company's safety information, including inspections, audits, compliance reviews and crash investigations.

Operating authority

Authority identified by a docket number, such as an MC, MX or FF number, that may be required for certain for-hire interstate operations. Application fees may apply.

Common factors include interstate commerce, vehicle or combination weight, passenger capacity, compensation and the transportation of hazardous materials. Some states also require certain intrastate commercial vehicle operators to obtain USDOT numbers.

Because the requirements depend on how your specific business operates, begin with the official FMCSA USDOT Wizard. You can also read our companion guide, Do I Need a USDOT Number?

What should you prepare before opening the application?

Registration is easier when the business information you enter is complete and consistent. Before you begin, gather the information that applies to your operation. This may include:

Your business's exact legal name and any trade name or DBA.
Your principal place of business and mailing address.
Company contact information.
Your Employer Identification Number or other applicable tax identification information.
The type of entity and business operation.
The cargo or passengers you expect to transport.
Whether the operation is interstate, intrastate or both.
The number and type of commercial vehicles in the operation.
Vehicle weight ratings and passenger capacities.
Government-issued identification needed for identity verification.

Use the business's legal information exactly as it appears on official records. Inconsistent names, addresses or entity details may delay verification or cause the vehicle markings you order later to disagree with the registration record.

How to get a USDOT number through Motus

Use the USDOT Wizard

Answer the questions in the FMCSA USDOT Wizard to identify the registration types that may apply to your operation. Do this before choosing an application or paying an operating-authority fee.

Go directly to the official Motus website

Access the registration system at motus.dot.gov. Check that the website ends in .gov before entering personal or business information.

Create your user profile

Motus uses Login.gov credentials and identity verification. The profile belongs to an individual person, while the company account contains the business's registration information.

Create a company account

New registrants establish a company account and provide the required business details. Existing registrants should claim their current USDOT number rather than applying for a replacement number.

Complete the appropriate application

Enter the requested information carefully and review each response before submitting it. If you use a transportation service provider, the company official must still complete required verification and review the provider's entries before the final submission and certifications.

Save your records and follow the status

Keep copies of confirmations and registration information for company records. Continue following any additional steps required for operating authority, insurance, process-agent filings, safety requirements or state registrations.

Protect your business from registration scams FMCSA has warned carriers about fraudulent emails, fake websites and misleading notices. Use official websites ending in .gov, avoid unfamiliar links requesting sensitive information, and remember that there is no FMCSA charge simply to obtain a USDOT number. Operating authority and other filings can carry legitimate fees. If something appears suspicious, use the FMCSA fraud-alert page or contact FMCSA directly.

What happens after you receive your USDOT number?

Receiving the number is an important step, but it may not be the final step before operating. Depending on the business, additional requirements may include operating authority, insurance filings, a BOC-3 process-agent filing, Unified Carrier Registration, a new-entrant safety program, drug and alcohol testing requirements, state registrations or permits.

You are also responsible for keeping the registration information current. FMCSA requires covered registrants to submit a biennial update every two years, even if the company information has not changed. Certain changes should be reported sooner rather than waiting for the next scheduled update.

Display your legal name and USDOT number correctly

When vehicle marking requirements apply, the commercial motor vehicle must display the motor carrier's legal name or a single trade name listed in its FMCSA record, followed by the identification number preceded by “USDOT.” Under the federal marking rule, the information must contrast sharply with the background, remain legible and be readable during daylight from 50 feet while the vehicle is stationary.

Before ordering vehicle lettering, verify the legal name and number in your registration record. Check every digit carefully. A professional layout can only reproduce the information supplied with the order.

Ready to mark your vehicle?

DOTNumberStore.com produces custom USDOT number decals and magnetic signs for commercial vehicles. Choose permanent vinyl lettering for a clean, professional appearance or removable magnetic signs for compatible steel vehicle panels.

Shop USDOT Stickers Shop USDOT Magnets

Frequently asked questions

Where do I apply for a new USDOT number in 2026?

New applications are started through FMCSA's Motus registration system at motus.dot.gov. The former Unified Registration System is no longer used for new applications.

Does it cost money to get a USDOT number?

FMCSA does not charge a fee simply to obtain a USDOT number. A business that also needs operating authority or other registrations may have separate application and filing fees.

Do I need an MC number in addition to a USDOT number?

It depends on the operation. Certain for-hire interstate carriers need operating authority in addition to a USDOT number, while many private carriers do not. Use the official FMCSA USDOT Wizard to identify the registrations that may apply.

What if I already have a USDOT number?

Do not apply for a duplicate number just because FMCSA changed systems. Existing registrants keep their current number. The company official can create a Motus company account and claim the existing USDOT record.

Can someone else complete the Motus application for me?

Motus can allow an authorized transportation service provider to assist, but the new registrant must begin the process and complete required identity and business verification. The company official must review the provider's work and submit the final certifications.

How quickly can I order USDOT number decals?

You can order once you have the correct USDOT number and the legal or trade name that should appear on the vehicle. Review the information carefully before approving a design or submitting an instant-preview order.

Sources

This article provides general educational information and is not legal advice. Registration and operating requirements vary by business type, vehicle, cargo, passenger service, operating area and state. Confirm the requirements for your operation with FMCSA and the appropriate state agencies.