How to Display Your USDOT Number Correctly: A Compliance Guide for Commercial Vehicles
In the world of commercial trucking, staying compliant with FMCSA regulations isn’t just smart—it’s required. One of the most overlooked (but highly visible) requirements is the correct display of your USDOT number. Improper placement or formatting can lead to fines, inspection delays, or even being pulled off the road.
This quick guide covers everything you need to know to display your USDOT number correctly and professionally—while making your company look sharp on the road.
1. Placement Requirements
Your USDOT number must be displayed on both sides of the power unit, typically on the cab doors. This ensures visibility for roadside inspectors, customers, and other motorists.
- Both sides of the vehicle
- Clearly visible from at least 50 feet in daylight
- Free from obstruction (no door handles or hardware in the way)
2. Sizing and Font Specifications
To be legible and compliant, your USDOT number must meet minimum sizing and style standards:
- Letters and numbers must be at least 2 inches tall
- Use a bold, block-style sans-serif font (like Arial or Helvetica)
- Try and avoid cursive or decorative fonts that reduce legibility
3. Color and Contrast
Your USDOT number must contrast sharply with the background color of your vehicle.
- Light-colored trucks: Use black lettering
- Dark-colored trucks: Use white or light lettering
- Avoid placing decals over multicolored graphics or textured wraps that reduce visibility
This isn’t just an aesthetic choice—clear contrast helps avoid citations during roadside inspections.
4. Additional Required Markings
In addition to your USDOT number, your vehicle must also display:
- Your company’s legal name or single trade name as registered with FMCSA
- If the vehicle operates under a different entity, add “Operated by” followed by the legal/trade name
These identifiers must be displayed using the same visibility and legibility rules listed above.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced operators can make mistakes when applying USDOT numbers. Avoid these common compliance pitfalls:
- Placing decals on the rear only
- Using fonts or letter sizes smaller than 2 inches
- Choosing colors that blend in with the truck’s paint
- Applying decals to damaged or uneven surfaces
When in doubt, go bigger, bolder, and cleaner.
6. Our Compliance-Ready Signage Options
At DotNumberStore.com, we make it easy to get compliant fast:
- Vinyl Decals: Durable, weather-resistant lettering available in a range of sizes and colors.
- Magnetic Signs: Perfect for owner-operators or those who lease trucks or work across multiple companies.
- Custom Templates: Just enter your DOT number and company name—we handle the formatting.
- Professional Customization: Add your company logo using your specific company colors.
Need to display additional numbers like your MC, KYU, or CA number? We offer multi-line formats and fleet packages too.
Stay Compliant. Stay on the Road.
Your USDOT number isn’t just a box to check—it’s a visible signal of your professionalism and commitment to the rules of the road. Let us help you display it right the first time with compliant, durable, and customized signage shipped fast.
Shop now at DotNumberStore.com