Do I Need a Different DOT Number for Each Truck?

The nation's trucking industry involves a lot more than just moving cargo from one place to another. Federal and state guidelines require different permits and registrations for any transport company to safely and legally operate. If you recently expanded to operate more than one business entity, you may wonder, “Do I need a different DOT number for each truck?”

This post will discuss when you need to apply for a new USDOT number and some instances in which you may be exempt. You can also direct any questions you have to Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings or start your application process through this site.

What is a DOT Number?

The United States Department of Transportation requires a DOT number for commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 10,000 pounds that cross state lines with goods or passengers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration assigns each DOT number. 

Your DOT number is how the FMCSA keeps track of vehicular accidents and other violations because it assigns each number to a specific vehicle and not the driver. That’s why motor carrier operators who drive more than one vehicle might have more than one DOT number.

Do I Need More Than One DOT Number?

You will only need more than one DOT number if you operate more than one commercial vehicle for different businesses. The process of obtaining more than one DOT number isn’t always easy, so make sure you have all the necessary information and start the process early. 

Do I need a different DOT number for each truck? Not generally, if the trucks fall under a single carrier. However, if you have businesses that are completely separate, you may need two DOT numbers (one for each carrier, which will apply to all of that carrier’s trucks).

Note that if you are the owner of two businesses, they are not completely separate in the eyes of the federal authority. In this case, you may run into obstacles applying for additional DOT numbers. For example, you will likely need a unique tax ID for each company to get more than one DOT number. 

If, for some reason, you are unable to obtain an additional tax ID yourself, you may be able to find another driver or business partner to get a unique tax ID and apply for another DOT number.

Do I Fall Under the DOT Number Exemptions?

Some carriers are exempt from the DOT number requirement, so check your entity’s classification before you begin an application process. Why waste time waiting for a DOT number you don’t need to legally operate?

For instance, you may be exempt if you operate the following:

• Private carriers that do not employ commercial drivers (they transport their own goods).
• Businesses that offer local delivery but do not cross state lines.
• Government vehicles that only operate on official business. 
• Farmers that transport food and supplies within a 150-mile radius of their farms.
• Residential moving companies that only transport personal effects.

Does your business fall under any of the above categories? You likely do not have to apply for a USDOT number. To check these exemption details, navigate to the FMCSA website.

How Do I Start the Application Process For a DOT Number?

Services like Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings make it easy to apply for a USDOT number online, whether it’s your first or an additional number. For a first number or a subsequent one, you need to provide your vehicles’ information, including the VIN and license plate number.

Do you need an MC number? Shorten the overall processing time by applying for a DOT number and an MC number at the same time. It can take several weeks to receive approval for your DOT application, so if you need to apply for an additional DOT number, start as soon as possible.

DOT Certification

Some states require DOT certification for various types of commercial vehicles, including public buses and semi-trucks. However, even if you work in a state that doesn’t require DOT certification, it’s a good way to demonstrate that you are a highly qualified commercial driver.

Additional DOT Numbers With Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings

A DOT certification requires a physical exam and a driving test, but there is no fee for the DOT number itself. Still, obtaining more DOT numbers than your entity needs could complicate your paperwork and make your operating authority less efficient.

If you’re still asking yourself questions like, “Do I need a different DOT number for each truck I operate?” or wondering whether two companies use the same DOT number, Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings’ experts can help. The site’s online chat feature operates during business hours. There’s also a convenient online contact form.