How to Obtain a DOT Number in Texas

Is Texas a part of your fleet’s cargo routes? If so, you should register for a Texas DOT number. Also called a TxDMV number, this identifier allows your drivers to operate within the state of Texas while complying with its interstate regulations. If you want to learn how to obtain a DOT number in Texas, you can learn from Federal Motor Carrier Authority Filings’ guide below. 

If you haven't already, you can also use their DOT portal to register for a USDOT number.  

What Is the Texas DOT Number?

The Texas Department of Transportation uses TxDMV numbers to determine which vehicles have the required operating authority to transport cargo on Texas interstates. Commercial vehicles meeting certain qualifications must register with the Texas DMV to receive a decal of their assigned numbers.

Then, the drivers must place the decal in a prominent position on the vehicle so trucking officials and other drivers can easily see it. You must apply for your Texas DOT number separately from your USDOT number. 

USDOT Number vs. Texas DOT Number

Sometimes, carriers or drivers confuse the TxDMV with the USDOT number since many people refer to the Texas identifier with a similar moniker. However, the USDOT number serves a national function. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association requires that all qualifying carriers obtain a DOT number to operate vehicles within multiple states. 

It does require that all drivers obtain a Texas DOT number. However, Texan authorities, like other state governments, have their own regulations that truckers must adhere to. 

Who Needs a Texas DOT Number?

How do you know whether your combination of vehicles needs TxDMV numbers? First, determine whether your drivers will travel through or otherwise operate within Texas. Then, check whether you meet the following requirements:

• Commercial trucks that register above 26,000 pounds
• Vehicles responsible for transporting hazardous materials
• Any farm vehicle with a gross weight of over 48,000 pounds
• Drivers who aren’t citizens of the United States but operate commercial vehicles within Texas
• Any vehicle designed to transport at least 15 passengers
• School buses of any size
• Drivers contracted to transport household goods in any vehicle size

Do the above characteristics describe you, your drivers, or your vehicles? If so, you should know how to obtain a DOT number in Texas. 

Texas DOT Number Requirements

First, you must ensure that you meet the application requirements. Texas requires that carriers and vehicles have minimal insurance coverage, depending on the type of cargo. The coverage minimums are listed below from least to most expensive:

• Carriers that specialize in transporting only household goods with a registered weight below 26,000 pounds 
• For-hire and private carriers who transport basic goods in vehicles weighing less than 26,000 pounds
• Small buses transporting between 15 and 26 people
• School buses
• Carriers based outside of the United States that seek to provide services within US borders
• Carriers that transport non-hazardous cargo
• Large buses designed to carry 26 or more people
• Carriers that specialize in hazardous materials

If your insurance provider drops your carrier, they must provide a 30-day notice. You should secure new coverage within that time frame and promptly inform the state about the changes. 

You must also register your carrier with a qualified substance-testing service. However, you likely already work with such a service if you already obtained your USDOT number. The FMCSA also requires that applicants partner with a testing consortium.  

How to Obtain a DOT Number in Texas

The application process takes two to seven business days. Once you complete and submit your application, an official will review it and assign a number, assuming you have everything in order. Review the process in-depth below. 

Requirement Verification

First, ensure your vehicle or fleet qualifies for the number. Double-check that your vehicle meets the listed requirements. Then, review your insurance coverage and compare your substance-testing consortium with those acknowledged by Texas trucking authorities. 

Compile Relevant Documentation and Information

As someone with a career in the trucking industry, you’re familiar with the paperwork management process. You’ll need documents that prove you meet the requirements alongside other permits requested when you submit your application.  

Complete the Application

Fill out the input fields on your application. Remember that applications with any missing or inaccurate information will halt the process. Once you finish the application, submit it through your portal. 

Application Review and Processing

Finally, the relevant officials will review your application. Most reviews take two business days or less. However, reviews may take longer for carriers with other permits and certificates.

Use FMCA Filings’ Expert Assistance

Now that you know how to obtain a DOT number in Texas, you can create a portal with FMCA Filings to streamline your future compliance and permit processes. You can also learn how long it takes to get a DOT number and other pertinent trucking subjects. For more assistance with all your USDOT Number filing needs, speak with one of our live professionals online.