How Long Does It Take To Get A USDOT Number?

Getting your USDOT number is a big step for many new trucking companies. But it is only one step out of many required to conduct business as a legally authorized company. Since the entire process can take some time, the question of how long it takes to get a USDOT number is one of the most frequently asked questions. 

While some applicants receive their DOT number right away through online USDOT registration, others may need to wait four to six weeks for processing, especially if additional approvals are required. If you also need an MC number to obtain trucking authority, the process may take longer.

The Process of Requesting a USDOT Number

The United States Department of Transportation issues a USDOT number. It is a number used to verify with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that you are operating legally as a trucking company. DOT numbers also serve as identifying numbers for collecting and monitoring a trucking company’s safety information collected during audits, compliance reviews, crash investigations, and inspections. 

With only a few exceptions, all trucking companies require a USDOT number. Carriers are required to obtain a DOT number before they can transport cargo or operate as an interstate carrier. Additionally, many businesses also need an MC number to obtain trucking authority, depending on their operation classification.

Criteria for a USDOT Number

All commercial vehicles must obtain a USDOT number if they meet any of the following requirements for a DOT number:

• Have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 10,001 pounds or more.

• Are designed or used to transport more than eight passengers (including the driver) for compensation.

• Are designed or used to transport more than fifteen passengers (including the driver) without compensation.

Additionally, most states require intrastate carriers to apply for a DOT number, with 39 out of 50 states enforcing this rule. If you're starting your own trucking company or operating across commercial zones, you’ll likely need to get a DOT number. Filing with FMCSA ensures compliance, and completing the USDOT application is a key step in the registration process.

How long does it take to get a USDOT number?

A USDOT number can be obtained fairly quickly, in some instances, less than an hour. However, if you need a motor carrier number, also called operating authority, it will take longer to issue this number. Unlike the USDOT number, which can be issued immediately, the motor carrier number requires 21 business days as a vetting and protest period before the number can become active. 

However, if you are simply looking for a USDOT number, you can get it quickly by using a reputable compliance company. There are a few steps in completing theUSDOT number application and the process can take several hours if you do it yourself.

Therefore, the recommended preparatory steps for speeding up the process of getting your USDOT numbers include the following: 

Complete the application process 

Authority Express's online application will walk you through the steps of applying for a USDOT number. This includes a section where you will need to enter your company’s information, including: 

1. Your name and the name of your company
2. Your company’s principal business address
3. Your business’s phone number, email address, and any other pertinent contact information
4. Your Social Security number or Employer Identification Number (EIN)

You will also have to select an operator classification as part of your USDOT number application. Most DOT number applicants will select either ‘for hire’ or private passenger.

Select your cargo classification 

Within your application, you previously provided information to let FMCSA know who you will be working for, but they also want to know what type of cargo you will be hauling. There are several cargo classifications, including:

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1. General freight
2. Household goods
3. Passengers
4. Farm supplies
5. Beverages

In addition to these categories, you must also indicate whether you are transporting hazardous materials. Transporting hazardous materials requires additional compliance measures. 

Sign and date the application

Once you have completed the DOT application in its entirety, you will have to certify that the information you provided is true and accurate, which is done by providing an authorized signature. Only an owner, a partner, or an authorized representative of the company may sign this form. 

Upon submission of your online application, a USDOT number will be provided instantly unless the application is rejected. In addition, a carrier notification letter will be sent in the mail. 

If you are mailing your application, it will take four to six weeks to process the application and receive a number assignment. 

Given this information, a USDOT number can be attained very quickly, or it can take a lot of time. It’s up to the applicant to decide how they want to apply, which impacts the length of time they will need to wait. 

No doubt you have plenty of other tasks to tackle in running your business. Authority Express can handle this for you in a professional and efficient manner. This will free you up to focus on growing and running your business. Give us a call to discuss how we can help.