Do You Need a CDL To Get a DOT Number?

Anyone in the transportation industry must be familiar with requirements set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Select motor carriers will receive a USDOT number to help identify their company's FMCSA standing regarding safety measures.

Some impacted operators also hold a commercial driver's license, which begs the question: Do I need a CDL to get a DOT number? This guide outlines all DOT number requirements, as well as non-CDL driver qualifications and regulations. 

What Is a DOT Number, and Why Is It Important?

Transportation professionals are subject to various DOT regulations. If you operate a trucking business involved in interstate commerce, regulations include applying for a DOT number. This will be a key identifier for your business and allows officials to track compliance issues, such as vehicle inspections and safety records. 

Suppose a police officer stops one of your company's drivers while they're operating a vehicle in your fleet. Officials can run the DOT number for more information about the holder, which in this case would be your company. DOT numbers focus more on the business operating the vehicle rather than the individual driver. 

Understanding Commercial Driver's Licenses and Scenarios Requiring Them

So, do you need a CDL to get a DOT number? Not necessarily, as a commercial driver's license grants someone the authority to operate certain types of vehicles. Drivers can obtain their license in one of three classes, each of which correlates to a specific type of vehicle or cargo load. 

Tractor-trailer drivers usually need a Class A CDL. Vehicles under this classification have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 26,000 pounds, including a trailer exceeding 10,001 pounds. 

A Class B CDL allows someone to drive a truck with a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds, but any connected trailer weighs less than 10,000 pounds. Class C CDLs apply to vehicles weighing less than 26,000 pounds, which may be used to transport more than 16 passengers. 

Comply With DOT Requirements Even as a Non-CDL Driver

Let's say you're the owner of a trucking company. Your fleet includes two tractor-trailers as well as five smaller cargo vans to transport goods. If you're wondering, "Do I need a CDL to get a DOT number?" the answer is no. 

However, you'll still need to comply with DOT number requirements as the business owner and ensure your drivers are compliant. Apply for a DOT number through FMCA Filings before launching your operations. If your vehicles participate in interstate commerce, you'll also need to complete a Unified Carrier Registration form. 

Employees who drive your cargo vans won't need a commercial driver's license, either. However, they'll still be subject to the following regulations:

• Accurate employment history: When applying for a transportation job, drivers without a CDL will need to provide their license number, accident history, and previous employers. 
• Driving record assessments: Employers need to run routine checks of an employee's driving history to ensure they operate vehicles safely. 
• Physical examinations: Non-CDL holders are subject to a mandated health screening. Upon passing, they'll receive a DOT medical card. 
• Preliminary road test: In order to drive a large van, truck, or bus for work, employees must pass a road test for safety and compliance purposes. 
• Safety performance records: It's an employer's job to request official safety records from a non-CDL driver's previous employers. 

The Department of Transportation doesn't mandate drug testing for those without a CDL. However, employers can require a drug screening as a pre-employment condition.

They must also ask prospective employees about previous drug or alcohol tests. If a driver refused to take a drug test or previously tested positive for drugs or alcohol on the job, employers are expected to follow a strict process before the driver can return to work. 

Although both types of drivers and their employers are subject to many regulations, these rules exist to keep all motorists safe. 

Stay Compliant With Federal Trucking Regulations Thanks to FMCA Filings 

You no longer need to wonder, "Do I need a CDL to get a DOT number?" However, you may still have questions regarding CDL revocation scenarios, DOT violations, or filing for a USDOT number. Explore our blog for information on these topics and more. 

If you need to file for a DOT number, MC number, or other essential transportation permit, look no further than FMCA Filings. You'll find simple filing options right here on our website that ensure your compliance with state and federal regulations. Begin a filing today or reach out to us for personalized assistance.