The Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a DOT Number

Starting a trucking company begins with one big, unavoidable task: getting your USDOT number. Foley has helped new carriers do this for more than 30 years—and the process has only gotten more complicated. Here's what you need to know:

What is a DOT number?

This unique identifier is required by the government and will be used to ensure the safe and compliant operation of your business.

A USDOT number is an identification number that allows FMCSA (the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) to monitor a company’s safety record and other information acquired during inspections and audits.

Who needs a DOT number?

You must have a USDOT number if you operate in interstate commerce and meet at least one of these thresholds: 

• Your vehicle or combination weighs 10,001 lbs or more

• You transport 9+ passengers (including the driver) for compensation

• You transport 16+ passengers (including the driver) not for compensation

• You transport hazardous materials requiring placarding

Even small carriers, new entrants, and owner-operators often meet these requirements.

How much does a DOT number cost?

Your DOT number is free when you file through Foley.

Seriously—no government fee, no hidden charges. You only pay for the compliance programs you choose to add after your authority is active.

Our specialists make sure your application is done correctly the first time so you don’t get stuck fixing errors (which can drag out the process and delay your ability to operate).

What documents are needed to get a DOT number?

To fill out your DOT number application, you will need your:

• Employer Identification Number or Social Security Number,

• Your Dun & Bradstreet Number (if applicable), and

• The names and titles of all of your company officers.

How long does it take to get a DOT number?

Although motor carriers used to be able to complete a DOT number application on paper, it now must be filled out online using the FMCSA’s Unified Registration System (URS) website.

Carriers should be prepared – the process of filing for a USDOT number will take a few hours and can be a burdensome and confusing process for anyone unfamiliar with the process.

You’ll want to make sure to take your time and get it right, as going back and fixing errors after your initial DOT number application is submitted, is a longer and more difficult process.

How to Apply for a DOT Number

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have the three or four documents mentioned above before you start the DOT number application process. Preparing beforehand will make it much easier to complete each step, instead of scrambling to find the right paperwork as you need it.

Step 2: Complete the FMCSA’s Unified Registration

Navigate to the FMCSA website to begin the registration process. You’ll want to start by reading the directions and then clicking the “To Get Started, Click Here” link. This will send you to a new page with information on filling out the DOT Number application form. It’s important that you take a few minutes to read it carefully.

At the bottom of the page, you’ll have the ability to continue on with the registration process. To do so, click, “To continue to the Unified Registration System, click here.”

You’ll be prompted to either log in or create a new account. If you’re creating a new account, there will be several pages of directions that you’ll want to read through before beginning the process.

Create an FMSCA User Account

Once you’ve read through all of the instructions, you’ll be sent to a screen where you can create your new FMCSA account. This account will allow you to access your application later on and track its process through the FMCSA system once it’s submitted.

As part of the registration process, you’ll be assigned an applicant ID. You’ll want to make a note of this ID and hold onto it for future reference. You’ll then be prompted to select and enter a password, as well as to enter three security questions and answers.

 Important: You have 30 days from when you create an account to finish and submit your application. If your DOT number application isn’t submitted by this date, your account will be deleted.

Step 3: Begin the DOT Number Application 

Now that your account is created, you can begin filling out the application. In the first section, is where you’ll enter all of your company’s identifying information. This includes your:

• Name and/or the name of your company  

• Business’ principal address  

• Dun & Bradstreet Number (if applicable) 

• Company’s phone number, email address, and fax number  

• Social Security Number or tax identification number

This is also where you’ll need to select your operator classification. This classification is important, as the government will want to know who you’re doing business for. For many DOT number applicants, this will be either “for hire” or “private passenger.” You may also be filling out a DOT number application to operate for a federal/state government, Indian tribe, or local mail.

Step 4: Select Your DOT Cargo Classification

What are the DOT Cargo Classifications?

Now that you’ve told the FMCSA who you’ll be working for, you need to tell them what type of cargo you’ll be hauling. It’s important to read the cargo classifications carefully and to check all of the boxes that will apply to your business. These include:

• General freight 

• Household goods 

• Passengers 

• Farm supplies 

• Beverages

• AND hazardous materials (if applicable)

 Hazmat carriers must also comply with additional FMCSA regulations and ensure drivers have proper hazmat endorsements.  

DOT Hazard Classifications

The DOT identifies nine different hazard classes:

• Class 1: Explosives

• Class 2: Gases

• Class 3: Flammable Liquid and Combustible Liquid

• Class 4: Flammable Solid, Spontaneously Combustible, and Dangerous When Wet

• Class 5: Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide

• Class 6: Poison (Toxic) and Poison Inhalation Hazard

• Class 7: Radioactive

• Class 8: Corrosive

• Class 9: Miscellaneous

Step 5: Complete and Sign the Application

Once you’ve completed the DOT number application, you’ll need to certify that all of the information you’ve provided on the application is correct and then provide an authorized signature. In order to legally sign the DOT number application form, you must be either an owner or partner in the business, an authorized representative or official of the company, or hold power of attorney for the applicant.

What happens after you get your DOT Number?

This is where most new carriers struggle—not during the application but after.   Once FMCSA assigns your DOT number, a whole list of compliance requirements immediately kicks in, including:

• Driver Qualification (DQ) file creation

• Pre-employment drug & alcohol testing (if FMCSA regulated)

• Clearinghouse registration & queries

• Mandatory safety policies

• MVR monitoring

• Hours of Service rules

• Recordkeeping for audits

• Participation in a DOT drug and alcohol testing program

In 2025, FMCSA enforcement is increasing again — and the expectations for new carriers are higher and faster-moving than ever.

Every new motor carrier is automatically enrolled in the FMCSA New Entrant Safety Assurance Program, which requires a New Entrant Safety Audit within the first 12 months of operation (often within 3–6 months).

If issues are found, carriers may be placed into corrective action — or even face revocation of operating authority.

Historically these audits took place in person, but since COVID many have shifted to desk audits, where FMCSA requests digital records and expects quick turnaround. With more oversight now happening electronically, audits are moving faster and giving carriers less time to fix mistakes.

Because everything is digital, missing documents, out-of-date files, and unaddressed compliance tasks show up quickly. That means starting your recordkeeping off on the right foot is essential if you want to pass your new entrant audit and keep your business operating without interruption.

Is there an easier way to get a DOT number?

Yes — when you get DOT number support through Foley.

Instead of spending hours navigating the FMCSA website, creating accounts, decoding regulatory language, and risking errors that can delay your authority, Foley’s compliance specialists guide you through the entire process. We make sure everything is completed accurately the first time so you can start operating sooner.

But the real advantage comes after your number is issued.

Once you’re active, Foley helps new carriers stay compliant in a world where FMCSA oversight is increasingly digital and fast-moving. With one platform, you can:

• Build and maintain digital driver files

• Set up a DOT drug & alcohol testing program

• Stay compliant with the FMCSA Clearinghouse

• Track CDLs, medical cards, and safety requirements

• Get automatic alerts when something needs attention

• Monitor your audit readiness with your Compliance Score

You’ll also have access to support from a team that works with new entrants every day — so you’re not figuring out federal regulations alone.

If you’re ready to launch your trucking business the right way and get your DOT number with help from Foley, click here to get started.