As a truck driver, there are a number of important steps you need to take before you can officially head out on the road. One of those steps is enrolling in the right commercial auto insurance package. Luckily, you have already found us for that! However, another step is getting all of the permits and authorities to which you are subject. Depending on the type of vehicle you operate and what kind of business you do, there are differences in which permits you are required to have on file. Nonetheless, one filing that you are very likely subject to having on file is the USDOT number.

What is a USDOT number?

A USDOT number is a filing with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, otherwise known as the FMCSA. If you operate as a commercial transportation business in any capacity, you will likely be required to have an active USDOT number when you are on the road. There are some parameters in place to formally set who needs a USDOT number. If you meet any of the following criteria, then you are required to have this filing:

• Your vehicle has a gross vehicle weight, combination weight, vehicle weight rating, or gross combination weight rating, 10,000 pounds or more.
• Your vehicle is constructed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (driver included) for compensation.
• Your vehicle is constructed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, drivers included, and not used to transport passengers for compensation.
• Your vehicle is used to haul the types and quantities of hazardous materials requiring a safety permit in intrastate commerce.

How can I get a USDOT number?

Obtaining a USDOT number is quite simple. You simply have to submit the related paperwork to the FMCSA and from there you are given your truck’s number. However, the best way to file for the USDOT is with an e-provider filing agency who submits the paperwork on your behalf. DOT Operating Authority is a great agency who obtains your USDOT number very swiftly.

While there are some more specifics about the USDOT requirements, in general if any of the  aforementioned statements sound applicable to you, you likely need it. You can always give us a call to further discuss the regulations regarding the filing and find out which other filings you may also need!