Understanding the MC Number Phase-Out in 2025

Tracking the multiple numbers required for managing your carrier fleet can be difficult, but the process is about to become simpler. The announcement about FMCSA phasing out MC numbers in 2025 is a welcome one for many fleet management teams. Even though the process should be easier, you might still need expert help understanding MC number elimination or with USDOT number registration.

Learn more about FMCSA regulations regarding these new compliance requirements.

Understanding USDOT and MC Numbers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) previously required motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders to manage both USDOT and MC identification numbers. 

What Is an MC Number?

The Motor Carrier (MC) number has been a requirement for companies that operate commercial trucks or buses across state lines. This rule primarily applies to motor carriers, but brokers and freight forwarders who move freight across state lines have also needed an MC number.

The FMSCA has used this number to give companies the ability to transport goods and people across state lines, known as motor carrier authority.

What Is a USDOT Number?

The U.S. Department of Transportation issues USDOT numbers, which all commercial vehicles need to operate. The USDOT uses the number to track safety performance for commercial vehicles.

To make it easier for authorities to manage USDOT numbers, the DOT number size requirements ensure that carriers display their USDOT numbers prominently. This makes it easier to manage and implement the system fairly across all carriers.

Before the MC number phase-out, a company that only had a USDOT number could not move freight or people across state lines. They needed an MC number. The change eliminates the need for two numbers.

What Changes Are Occurring With MC Numbers?

With the FMCSA phasing out MC numbers in 2025, it might be unclear how this change precisely affects you. In basic terms, it will eventually eliminate MC numbers. The system will solely rely on USDOT numbers.

Because all commercial vehicles need a USDOT number, the FMCSA decided to use the USDOT number to also manage the requirements that the MC number has traditionally fulfilled. This change should simplify managing these numbers for companies. If you’re still unsure how this situation affects you, reaching out to the experts at FMCA Filings can help.

The implementation timeline for the change is still a little unclear, which is another reason why FMCA Filings can be a valuable resource. The elimination of MC numbers will occur in phases throughout 2025, and new applicants will no longer receive MC numbers starting in October 2025.

Why Is the FMCSA Making the Changes to MC Numbers?

Rather than trying to manage two different identification numbers, the change allows interstate carriers to use only one number. This change should reduce errors and the potential for fraud in the system, ideally leading to better oversight of the motor carrier system.

What Should Carriers Do To Handle the MC Number Phase-Out?

With FMCSA phasing out MC numbers in 2025, you might wonder how the change affects your company. It’s important to note that this change does not impact your ability to operate or the authority you have.

If you already use your MC number regularly, you’ll eventually see a reduction in requests to provide this number. If you currently use your MC number as your main identification number, you should begin using the USDOT number as your primary identifier. Everything required to operate, from insurance to safety records to operating authority, will now rely solely on the USDOT number.

You should update your website and business cards to reflect this change. Remove the MC number from these areas and only use the USDOT number.

If you use a nationwide filing service like FMCA Filings to manage your MC number and other operational information, they will manage the changes for you and help you remain in compliance. Even though the system should be simpler to use, the documentation required could still be difficult to manage on your own.

Trust FMCA Filings for Help With Understanding All New Fleet Operational Regulations

Now that the FMCSA is phasing out MC numbers in 2025, one regulatory complication related to managing your carrier fleet is going away. However, the regulatory management process can still be quite complex, which is why FMCA Filings is ready to help. Our nationwide filing service helps you manage your fleet’s administrative needs, whether you need assistance getting a DOT number or staying in compliance with federal regulations.

To learn more, reach out to FMCA Filings with our representatives on our live chat service.