How Long Does it Take to Get a DOT Number?
A USDOT number is a form of identification required by the Department of Transportation. This number is necessary for companies that operate commercial vehicles that haul cargo, various materials, and hazardous substances via interstate travel.
This DOT number is a way of tying a trucking company to a specific vehicle when it’s subject to various inspections, crashes, audits, and regulations to ensure safe travel for the driver, passengers, and company operation.
Since you need a DOT number to operate your trucking company, then you might be wondering, "How long does it take to get a DOT number?" Continue reading to explore the registration process and how long it takes from start to finish.
Why Do You Need a DOT Number?
The operating authority on transportation is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA).
This institution requires carriers to have a USDOT number if they plan to complete interstate travel while transporting cargo as a motor carrier. You only need a DOT number if you plan to stay within a singular state’s lines.
Average Time It Takes to Get a DOT Number
The average time it takes to get your DOT number is quick. Sometimes this is within an hour. But the DOT number is not the only number you need.
The other number you need is an MC or Motor Carrier number, and this number takes around three weeks to come in. The reason for this three-week time frame is due to something called the vetting period.
Having both the MC and DOT number is required if you plan to haul any loads across state lines.
What to Do During the Waiting Period
During this 21-day waiting period, you cannot operate your trucking company hauling loads across the interstate. While you wait for your DOT number to come in, there are other things you can focus on so you’re ready to get out on the roads when it arrives.
One important thing you must make sure you have, along with your DOT number, is trucking insurance. In addition to this, the FMCSA ensures you have all of the necessary requirements squared away.
These requirements include:
- A fully registered LLC or other legal entity
- Contact information, including phone numbers and email address
- Legal business with owner name, address, and business name
- DUNS Bradstreet number
- Proof of insurance
- Number of employees
File for Your DOT Number Today
Instead of wondering, "How long does it take to get a dot number?" trust a nationwide company to help answer all of your questions and file for your DOT number.
FMCA Filings is the premier online company that specializes in helping trucking businesses like yours stay in compliance with both USDOT and DOT regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. FMCA Filings feature compliance checks, motor carrier permits, state-specific permits, USDOT numbers, and BOC-3 / Processing Agent.