How Much Does It Cost To Get a DOT Number?

Every trucking company needs a United States Department of Transport number, but what does the application process look like? And how much does it cost to get a DOT number if you don’t have one already? With most forms digitally available, you can fill out a USDOT number application online if you understand the application process. 

To help you start the process, Federal Motor Carrier Authority Filings provides more in-depth information below.

Why Do You Need a DOT Number?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association, all types of vehicles that transport federally regulated goods or passengers need a DOT number under the following circumstances:

• The vehicle weighs 10,000 pounds or more
• The cargo includes hazardous materials
• The vehicle transports 9 to 15 passengers (where the driver receives no fee for driving)
• The vehicle transports 16 or more passengers (where the driver receives compensation)

All drivers or carriers operating within the United States and crossing state borders need a USDOT number. Effectively, the number grants you operating authority. It also allows other parties to access pertinent information regarding your fleet’s safety.

What Is a DOT Number’s Purpose?

Your DOT number will specify the types of cargo your trucks or other vehicles can carry. It also allows various governmental transportation agencies to monitor your road safety record. For example, they may use your number to store details about safety audits, safety scores, and carrier or company snapshots. 

As you update information about your fleet and so on, the DOT number will reflect those changes.

How Much Does It Cost To Get a DOT Number?

So, how much does it cost to get a DOT number so that you have legal grounds to operate on the roads? The DOT number doesn’t cost any money, but the filing process does. There are filing fees to complete the process, and you also must purchase full operating authority by obtaining an MC number or motor carrier number. 

The total cost of the application will also depend on the route you choose. By selecting a digital permit filer like FMCA Filings, you will pay less and enjoy a streamlined filing process.  

How To Obtain a DOT Number

In order to obtain a DOT Number, you will follow a lengthy process that includes the following:

• Identify your authority requirements. 
• Choose the correct form. 
• Complete the FMCSA application filings, like insurance and carrier type. 
• Complete further requirements outlined by your state’s DOT. 
• Ensure your fleet and drivers can pass a new entrant safety audit. 
• Plan a timeline for information updates.
• Set reminders to pay fees every other year.

When you collect the information above and understand what you’re applying for, you can begin the process as follows:

• BOC-3 forms for drivers who cross state borders
• Basic information about your company (specialties, location, and contact details)
• An insurance plan that fits your company’s needs
• The type of classification you’ll need
• A usable mailing address
• Whether you plan to transport goods or passengers

FMCA Filings can consolidate the information and speed up the process for you. They also explain any confusing sections and can consolidate the necessary forms to help you prepare.

Is My Company Exempt From DOT Number Requirements?

Most commercial transportation companies need a DOT number to perform their work efficiently, including companies operating solely within one state. The exceptions to these requirements include the following:

• Fleets operating solely within a state that doesn’t require a DOT number by law
• Fleets carrying under 10,000 pounds in cargo
• Companies that don’t transport hazardous material

You may feel confident about purely in-state operations, but unforeseen events do happen. What if roadworks or detours force your driver into another state? What if a driver makes a wrong turn and crosses a state line?

If your operation breaks the FMCSA requirements, even without meaning to do so, the repercussions can be serious for your business. To avoid losing your operating authority, get an MC and DOT number and serve your company’s and driver’s best interests.

The Differences Between MC Numbers and DOT Numbers

When should companies have an MC number? It applies to carriers doing the following: 

• Transporting passengers across state borders 
• Transporting federally regulated goods owned by a third party
• Using operators that work-for-hire 

The USDOT number typically only applies to fleets crossing state borders, but it’s best to check because companies need both numbers.

How much does it cost to get a DOT number? While the number itself costs nothing, the filing process and permits cost quite a bit on top of the time and effort spent on paperwork, but when you use the services of Federal Motor Carrier Authority Filings, the process is much simplified! With FMCA, you can reach out to one of our Live Agents to chat online or fill out our contact form for more information to get started today.