6 Reminders When Changing Address for Truck Registration

As a trucking owner-operator or motor carrier, you may need to change an address for truck registration. Though an address change for commercial vehicle registration is a common occurrence, not everyone knows the process. Thankfully, FMCA Filings knows exactly what to do. 

As a top filing service provider for motor carriers, truckers, and brokers, our team can help with everything from BOC 3 filings to US DOT number applications. Here, we explain key points to remember for truck registration address modifications. 

What To Remember When Updating Truck Registration Information

Here are several truck registration reminders for your convenience. 

You Must Submit a Change of Address for Vehicle Registration

If you own a vehicle, you must register it with certain government agencies to link the car or truck to your name and state. The registration proves that a vehicle is legal to drive and details who is responsible for it.

You must include accurate information, including your address, on the initial registration application. If you change addresses, you can't leave the old one on your registration because it will render the document and its information inaccurate. 

The same rule applies to commercial trucks. If you're a motor carrier with a new address, you must formally request an alteration to your truck's registration to reflect the updated information. As a carrier, this step is important because of your DOT MC number, which gives you motor carrier operating authority.

You Need To Update Your Address Beyond the DMV

Depending on your state, you might go through your local Department of Motor Vehicles when you need to change an address for truck registration. Every state has its own requirements and processes for this task. 

For instance, Massachusetts drivers can update information on their truck and car registrations through the state's Registry of Motor Vehicles. Registration amendments require the completion and submission of a Registration and Title Application from an insurance agent, which should include the license numbers and birthdates of all vehicle owners.

Motor carriers have vehicle registrations beyond the DMV. One of the most important registrations is the DOT MC number. Your motor carrier operating authority lets you legally transport passengers and approved commodities over state lines. To get this authority, you must register with the Department of Transportation through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. 

You Must Complete and Submit a Specific Form

Since the information on your FMCSA registration for your MC number must always be accurate to comply with federal regulations governing trucking companies, carriers must complete one document to amend their registration details: Form MCSA-5889 Motor Carrier Records Change.

The FMCSA uses Form MCSA-5889 to process requests for name, phone number, and address changes. It's also the same form you would fill out if you lost your operating authority and want to reinstate it. 

You Must Complete Form MCSA-5889 Correctly

Because Form MCSA-5889 is the go-to amendment request form for motor carriers, you must know how to complete it to reflect your updated information. You don't need to fill out the entire document, just what you need to change in addition to basic information. 

Everyone, regardless of need, must complete Section A on the form. This portion of the document is for current motor carrier identification and includes your name, MC number, and address. The address you input in this section is the one that's on your current FMCSA registration.

Next, you'll move to Section B for address changes. Here, you'd put your new physical or mailing address. 

Completing Form MCSA-5889 correctly is important. Mistakes can cause delays or rejections, which could hinder your trucking business if the problem impacts your operating authority.

You Need Specific Information To Update Your Truck Registration 

When making a truck registration address modification, you'll need specific information like:

• Your company's name
• Your old address
• Your new address
• Your signature

For Form MCSA-5889, you'll also need your MC number. 

Know Who To Contact for Help With Your Registration Address Change

Though the process of changing an address for truck registration seems fairly straightforward, carriers still encounter problems. Thankfully, we at FMCA Filings know precisely how to navigate registration alterations for motor carriers to ensure they comply with DOT and FMCSA regulations. As a respected filing service with knowledgeable representatives, we can guide you through the entire address change process. 

Reach Out to Our Professionals for Help Altering an Address for Truck License Renewal

At FMCA Filings, we know how to streamline administrative processes for trucking companies to help them run more efficiently. Besides our filing services, we offer an array of valuable information that's essential to motor carriers, truckers, and brokers. Whether you need information on how to change an address for truck registration or how to use an agent service, we're the professionals to call. 

For more help with a truck registration address update, contact FMCA Filings today using our convenient online form or live chat feature.