USDOT and MC Number Requirements
USDOT and MC Number Requirements
Looking to get your USDOT and MC number? Using DAT Authority takes the hassle out of filing paperwork.
Are you prepared to embark on launching your very own trucking business? The experienced experts at DAT Authority are ready to provide their guidance every step of the way. They’ll assist you in obtaining your MC number, ensuring compliance with all USDOT and MC number requirements, and overseeing the necessary paperwork with a focus on seamless efficiency.
- Apply for MC number & USDOT easily.
- Feel confident about navigating federal and state regulations.
- Work directly with industry experts.
Apply for MC number & USDOT easily.
Don’t get hung up on paperwork. DAT will guide you every step of the way as you get your trucking authority.
No matter whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned carrier, having your trucking authority is a necessary part of having your own trucking business. Between piles of paperwork and complex MC number requirements, obtaining your authority can feel intimidating. That’s where DAT comes in. We take the guesswork out of applying for your MC and USDOT number by handling all the paperwork on your behalf, so you can meet all your MC and USDOT number requirements fast.
Feel confident about navigating federal and state regulations.
There are many forms, permits, and regulations you need to be aware of wherever you operate. We’ll make sure you’re covered.
From DOT registration, to filing your IFTA and IRP permits and finding BOC-3 agents, to meeting ever-changing state and federal regulations, there are many steps involved in obtaining trucking authority. Juggling all of them on top of your daily tasks and keeping up with industry changes can quickly become overwhelming.
Luckily, you don’t have to tackle it on your own. The experts at DAT Authority not only help you get your trucking authority, but we can also help you maintain that authority and stay on top of any relevant changes to state or federal regulations so you can focus on running your business.
Work directly with industry experts.
Give yourself a competitive advantage by partnering with DAT’s specialists to get your business running.
Since 1978, DAT has partnered with carriers to bring their businesses to the next level. We’ve seen firsthand the challenges freight carriers face, so we created solutions like DAT Authority to help carriers thrive.
And DAT’s support goes beyond simply helping you get your operating authority (including your MC and USDOT numbers). DAT offers a variety of tools to help your business grow including our industry-leading load board, carrier TMS, and more.
"Some say it's simple to get your authority, and that you should save your money and do it yourself. Other people, including myself, are not sure where to even begin. I used a service provided by DAT to get my authority. It was important to me that it was done right the first time, by people who have done this before."
- Chad Boblett - Boblett Brothers Trucking
"They took me by the hand an led me through all of the diffiult and confusing steps to ensure that I started off on the right food. I cannot say it any clearer than these folks know what it's all about."
- Gregg Knight, LTL Trucking
Believe it or not, a USDOT number is free to get — and keeping it up to date year to year is free too! Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for your MC number.
The price of an MC number varies depending on which operational authorities a business needs. Essentially, the more classifications you need, the higher the MC number cost. An MC number costs an initial $300 and an additional $300 for every classification needed. For example, if you need to file for Transportation of International Household Goods authority on top of base classifications, you’ll need to pay $600 in total.
A USDOT number (often shortened to just DOT) is a unique identifier given by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to any company involved in commercial transportation. This number serves as a way for the government to track information such as compliance reviews, inspections, company background, and so much more.
Even if you’re not planning to cross state lines, the USDOT number is a required part of running a business in the trucking industry.
A USDOT number helps the government and FMCSA keep a record of your business, so regardless of what type of trucking company you operate and whether or not you cross state lines, a USDOT number is required.
An MC number is your operating authority by another name, and, depending on your business plans, you will very likely need it. Generally, companies participating in interstate commerce or hauling federally regulated cargo will need an MC number. However, it’s possible to operate with just a USDOT number depending on your specific circumstances.
If this sounds a little complex, don’t worry! The experts at DAT Authority are here to help. We’ll guide you throughout the process and even take care of the paperwork on your behalf to ensure you get all the numbers you need — and none that you don’t.
The process of obtaining your numbers can quickly become complex, and any mistakes made during registration can create significant delays. You must ensure you have all your business information ready to make the process as smooth as possible. This includes everything from Employer Identification Numbers and Dun & Bradstreet Numbers to your operating and cargo classifications. While you don’t need to have your vehicles on-hand to get your DOT number, you at least need to know the types of vehicles you want to get.
The reality is that the MC and USDOT number requirements can be somewhat confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the process. If you’re unsure of what you need to file correctly, DAT Authority can take care of the paperwork for you so you can focus on growing your business.
The MC number and USDOT registration process will vary depending on the application method and whether or not you’re a first-time applicant.
If you submit your application for a DOT number online, you can receive your number immediately via email. If sent by mail, it can take up to six weeks to come through (longer if there are any issues with your submission).
MC numbers, on the other hand, undergo a mandatory vetting period of 21 days before activation.
The best way to shorten this process is making sure you submit your application correctly the first time around to avoid additional delays. The experts at DAT Authority can help you do just that!
DAT Authority is a comprehensive solution designed to assist carriers on every part of their journey. Not only do our experts take care of your USDOT and MC number for you, but we’ll also file your IRP and IFTA applications, cover your federal fees, and offer professional insights to help you optimize and grow your business. We can even help out with back-office tasks!
Learn more about our different flat-rate subscription packages and how we can help you tackle all your operating authority requirements.
DAT Authority: The easy way to secure your USDOT and MC number!
You want to hit the road, not worry about paperwork. At DAT Authority, we’ll handle everything to ensure your business is registered with the FMCSA and your USDOT and MC numbers are active. Build your trucking business confidently, and contact us now to get started!