How to Check Your DOT Number

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As a truck driver, having a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number is essential for operating efficiency and—more importantly—legally. Whether you’re hauling cars between dealerships or expanding your trucking career, knowing how to find your USDOT number or verify someone else’s is a key skill. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to locate a USDOT number, why it matters, and how to ensure you’re compliant with federal regulations.

What Is a DOT Number?

A USDOT number is a unique identifier assigned by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to track commercial motor carriers and their safety records. If you’re transporting cars across state lines or operating a vehicle over a certain weight, you’re required to have one. A USDOT number is like a driver license for your trucking business, as it is used for monitoring compliance, inspections, and safety audits.

Why You Should Know Your DOT

Whether it’s to meet regulatory requirements or satisfy clients who need to verify your credentials, knowing or locating your USDOT number is a necessary step for truck drivers. This unique identifier, overseen by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), doesn't expire—it stays active as long as your operation remains in business and follows FMCSA regulations.²

How to Find Your DOT Number

Check Your Records

If you already have a USDOT number, the simplest method of finding it is to review your own documents. Take a look at your confirmation of registration, insurance cards, or any notifications you've received from the FMCSA. Your DOT number will be listed. You probably received it when you first applied via the FMCSA's Unified Registration System (URS).³

Use the FMCSA’s Online Tools

If you’ve misplaced your number, don’t worry—the FMCSA makes it easy to look it up. Head to the FMCSA’s official website (https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov) and use their “Company Snapshot” tool. Here’s how:

Visit the official Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website at https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov¹
Locate the “FMCSA Searches” section on the homepage, which will direct you to various lookup tools.
Select the “Company Snapshot” link. This tool allows you to search by DOT number, company name, or other identifying information.¹
Enter your search parameters. You can search by USDOT Number, MC/MX number of by name.¹
Click SEARCH to view your results.

Contact the FMCSA Directly

Can’t find the DOT number online? Reach out to the FMCSA directly. You can call their support line or submit a request via their website. Be ready to provide your business details—like your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or full legal name—to confirm your identity. If all else fails, this is a foolproof way to retrieve your USDOT number.³

According to the FMCSA, this tool also lets you check whether your USDOT number is active or inactive.²

What to Do If Your DOT Number Is Inactive or Revoked

An inactive or revoked USDOT number is no cause for worry as there are processes to help you recover this status. Here’s what to do:

Inactive Status

Inactive registration status occasionally occurs when operators fail to keep their FMCSA biennial filing current or operations come to an end entirely. To activate again:

Log into the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) which can be reached through their website.²
Review your company information, then indicate your operational status while completing all necessary submissions through the FMCSA URS system.
Check carefully for existing fees; free reactivation is usually available, but late filings result in penalties.
Your operating number will transform to active status after the processing step maintains your compliance standards.

Revoked Status

Revocation occurs only when vehicle operators violate major regulations such as multiple maintenance failures or insurance expiration. To resolve:

Determine the initial cause(s) of the cancellation by inquiring about any unsettled fines, missing insurance coverage or other non-compliance issues.
Apply for a fresh USDOT number by using the Universal Registration System as the URS does not allow reinstatement of previously revoked numbers.²
Be aware that the FMCSA evaluates your previous operating record before giving out a new USDOT number.

In either case, act quickly. Running your business with an inactive or revoked DOT number may result in multiple penalties, including fines, contract loss, or permanent market removal. After making changes regarding your company's status you should verify your validity to ensure proper authorization.²

Once you have your DOT number, display it proudly on your truck and keep it active. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in growing your business with confidence.

Partner with ACV Transportation

If you have your DOT Number and meet other key requirements, partner with ACV Transportation to find carrier opportunities nationwide. ACV Transportation auto loadboard can connect you with loads locally, regionally or nationwide moving vehicle inventory for car dealerships. With ACV Transportation we not only have access to thousands of loads daily, but have dedicated account managers to grow your business. Join our transport network today and start moving more loads.

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