How to get DOT number and MC number?

What is a DOT Number?

A DOT number, or Department of Transportation number, is a 12-digit alphanumeric code issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) to registered commercial vehicles.

What is a DOT Certification?

A DOT number is for transport companies; a DOT certification is a badge for drivers, showing they’re qualified to drive commercial vehicles in the United States. Almost every state insists that drivers working for trucking companies should have this certification, whether they’re driving big trucks or smaller delivery vehicles. If a driver has a commercial driver’s license, it means they’re DOT certified.

Do I need to have both a USDOT and MC Number?

When Do You Need Both Numbers?

You will need both a USDOT and MC number if your business is involved in interstate commercial transportation for hire.How to get dot number and mc number? Here are specific scenarios where both are required:

1. Interstate Transportation for Hire:
   • If your business transports goods or passengers for compensation across state lines, you need an MC number.
   • Additionally, if your operations involve interstate commerce, regardless of compensation, you need a USDOT number.
2. Hazardous Materials Transportation:
   • If you transport certain quantities and types of hazardous materials that require a safety permit, you will need a USDOT number. If these operations are interstate and for hire, you will also need an MC number.

Examples:

1. Freight Companies:
   • A freight company hauling goods between states needs both a USDOT number for safety monitoring and an MC number for operating authority.
2. Passenger Carriers:
   • A bus company transporting passengers between states for a fee needs both numbers.
3. Hazardous Materials:
   • A company transporting hazardous materials across state lines needs a USDOT number for safety permits and an MC number if the transport is for hire.

Additional State Requirements:

Some states may also require intrastate commercial motor vehicle registrants to obtain a USDOT number even if they do not cross state lines. Always check state-specific regulations to ensure compliance.

How much does it cost to get a dot number and mc number?

USDOT Number:

• Cost: Free
  • There is no charge for obtaining a USDOT number. It can be acquired by registering with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) through their Unified Registration System (URS).

MC Number:

• Cost: $300
  • The filing fee for obtaining an MC number is $300. This fee is required for each type of operating authority you seek (e.g., carrier, broker, freight forwarder). This cost covers the processing and issuance of the MC number by the FMCSA.

Additional Costs:

• Third-Party Services: If you choose to use a third-party filing company, such as DAT Authority or Authority Express, there will be additional fees for their services. These companies provide assistance with the application process, compliance, and other related services. The costs for these services can vary significantly depending on the provider and the level of service required

What does the application process look like?

The process of obtaining USDOT and MC numbers involves several steps, and it can be completed online through the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) or by submitting paper forms via mail. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Gather Required Information

Before starting the application, ensure you have the following information ready:

• Business Information: Legal name, DBA name (if applicable), principal address, mailing address, and contact information.
• Personal Information: Owner’s personal contact information.
• Vehicle Information: Number of vehicles, vehicle types, and cargo classification.
• Operation Classification: Type of authority you are applying for (carrier, broker, freight forwarder, etc.).
• Insurance Information: Insurance provider details if applying for an MC number.
• Safety Certification: Certification of compliance with federal safety regulations.

2. Create a Login and Start the Application

• Online via URS:
  • Visit the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS).
  • Create an account and log in to start your application.
  • Follow the step-by-step instructions to fill out the necessary information.

3. Complete the Application

• USDOT Number:
  • Complete the MCS-150 form (Motor Carrier Identification Report).
  • Provide detailed information about your business operations, vehicle information, and types of cargo.

• MC Number:
  • Complete the OP-1 form (Application for Motor Carrier and Broker Authority).
  • Specify the type of operating authority you are seeking (common, contract, or broker).
  • Provide insurance details as required.

4. Submit the Application

• Online Submission:
  • Review your application for accuracy and completeness.
  • Submit the application through the URS.
  • Pay the application fee (if applicable): The fee for an MC number is $300.

• Mail Submission:
  • Download and print the necessary forms from the FMCSA website.
  • Complete the forms and mail them to the address provided on the FMCSA website.

5. Wait for Processing

• USDOT Number:
  • Issued immediately upon successful submission unless there are issues with the application.

• MC Number:
  • Issued within 24 hours, but it is subject to a protest period of 20-25 days before activation.
  • Applications requiring additional review may take longer (up to 8 weeks or more).
  • If submitted by mail, processing can take 45-60 days.

6. Check Application Status

• Monitor the status of your application on the SAFER website.

7. Comply with Federal Regulations

• Ensure ongoing compliance with FMCSA regulations, including maintaining proper insurance, conducting safety audits, and keeping your information up to date

How long does it take to get a DOT number and MC number?

How to get DOT Number:

• Online Application: If you apply for a USDOT number online via the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS), you will receive your USDOT number immediately upon successful submission, provided there are no issues with the application​ (DMV)​ .
• Mail Submission: If you submit your application via mail, it can take 4-6 weeks for processing due to the time required for postal delivery and manual processing .

How to get MC Number:

• Online Application: When applying for an MC number online, the number is issued within 24 hours after the application is submitted successfully. However, the MC number is subject to a mandatory protest period of 20-25 days before it becomes active and you can start operating under it .
• Mail Submission: Applications submitted by mail can take longer, typically 45-60 days to process due to the additional time required for postal delivery and manual processing .

Additional Processing Time:

• Protest Period: After the MC number is issued, there is a mandatory 20-25 day protest period during which the FMCSA publishes your application to allow for any objections. During this period, you cannot operate under the MC number .
• Additional Reviews: Some applications may be subject to additional reviews, which can extend the processing time to 8 weeks or more, especially if there are discrepancies or missing information in your application .

Summary:

• USDOT Number: Immediate issuance online, 4-6 weeks via mail.
• MC Number: Issued within 24 hours online but becomes active after 20-25 days; 45-60 days via mail.

Is DAT Authority only for DOT and MC numbers?

No, DAT Authority offers a range of services beyond just obtaining USDOT and MC numbers. Here’s a breakdown of the services provided by DAT Authority:

Core Services:

1. USDOT and MC Numbers:
   • Assists in obtaining USDOT and MC numbers, which are required for operating commercial vehicles in interstate commerce and for hire.
2. Operating Authority:
   • Helps with the process of acquiring operating authority, which includes both the USDOT and MC numbers. This authority is essential for motor carriers to legally operate.

We hope that this information will help you to understand how to obtain a dot number without unnecessary problems and with minimal costs