What is The Difference Between DOT Number and MC Number?

What is The Difference Between DOT Number and MC Number?

Thinking about becoming a carrier or owner-operator? It's important to understand the difference between DOT numbers and MC numbers, as well as the specific requirements for each. A DOT number is necessary for companies involved in interstate commerce, while an MC number is required for transporting regulated commodities. Knowing which one applies to your operation is key to staying compliant and avoiding potential penalties.

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The trucking industry is highly regulated, so every carrier or owner-operator must ensure they’re good to go with the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier (FMCSA) before hitting the road to transport freight. For many, this means getting their DOT number and MC number.

Before you can start your business, you need to know the difference between DOT and MC numbers to ensure you don’t face heavy fines, can keep your business up and running, and can stay on the right side of the law, the DOT, and the FMCSA. Unsure of how they differ? Don’t worry! We’ll review the difference between DOT and MC numbers, what each number means, who needs them, what you’ll need to do to obtain yours, and more.

What is a DOT number and who needs one?

What is a DOT number?

A DOT number, also known as a USDOT number or an FMCSA DOT number, is a number assigned by the FMCSA that can be used as an identifier for your company. DOT numbers are generally eight digits long and should be printed or painted on your truck’s cab. If your business has multiple trucks, they display the same DOT number.

Your DOT number will enable the FMCSA to collect and monitor safety information about your company acquired during compliance reviews, audits, inspections, and crash investigations. All of this information will be public and accessible via the FMCSA’s website.

Who needs a DOT number?

You’ll need a DOT number if:

States that require intrastate commercial motor vehicle registrants to have a DOT number include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Puerto Rico.

How to get a DOT number: Step-by-step guide

So, how can you get one of these numbers from the Department of Transportation? By filling out paperwork! If this is your first time registering for a DOT number, you’ll need to use the Unified Registration System (URS), which is available on the FMCSA website, and follow these steps:

  1. Head to the official FMCSA website
  2. Click on the Registration tab
  3. Select Apply for a New USDOT Number and/or Authority, which will take you to the URS wizard
  4. Click the New Applicant button and follow the instructions
  5. Enter your business name and location, personal contact information, a valid address, your operation classification, your cargo classification, information on the type and ownership of vehicles, and more.

How long does it take to get a DOT number?

After you complete your online application, you’ll receive a DOT number immediately, assuming there aren’t any problems with your application. However, you can’t start operating under your new FMCSA DOT number until you’re granted operating authority. This will likely take around 25 days.

How much does a USDOT number cost?

Starting a new business can be expensive, but the good news is that there is no filing fee associated with FMCSA DOT number registration!

What is an MC number and who needs one?

What is an MC number?

In addition to a DOT number, many companies need an MC number, also known as a Motor Carrier number or operating authority, before they hit the road. This number is assigned by the FMCSA to identify your operating or trucking authority and is given to commercial motor vehicles that participate in interstate commerce.

Who needs an MC number?

Will your company transport passengers in interstate commerce? You’ll need an MC number. Will you transport federally regulated commodities across state lines? You’ll also need a Motor Carrier number.

How to get an MC number

To apply for your MC number, head to the FMCSA website.

How long does it take to get an MC number?

Usually, it will take 20-25 business days for a carrier to receive their MC number.

How much does an MC number cost?

While DOT numbers are free, the FMCSA charges a $300 filing fee for permanent authority per operating class.

What is the difference between a DOT number and an MC number?

Who needs a DOT number and who needs an MC number?

In general, most companies need a USDOT number. On the other hand, only companies that transport passengers across state lines or engage in interstate commerce with regulated commodities need MC numbers.

What are DOT and MC numbers used for?

While a DOT number is simply for filing use in the FMCSA system, an MC number permits you to operate as a commercial trucking company.

What do DOT numbers and MC numbers look like?

DOT numbers are always preceded by the letters USDOT and are generally longer, whereas MC numbers will have the abbreviation for the state you’re operating out of in front of the number.

How much does it cost to get a DOT number and an MC number?

While you can get your DOT number for free, your MC number will cost $300 for each operational class you need to register in.

Starting your trucking business: Understanding DOT and MC numbers and other key steps

Starting a trucking business involves navigating many regulations, including understanding the difference between a DOT number and an MC number. Both numbers have specific requirements depending on the type of business you run and the freight you transport.