Last Updated March 19, 2025
Potentially the most significant element of trucking compliance revolves around DOT (Department of Transportation) numbers.
Whether your business is already off the ground running or you are still in the planning phase of starting your own trucking company, it’s essential to not only obtain a DOT number, but to make sure it’s active.
To check your DOT number status, you first need to know where to find your number. In this guide, we’ll explain different ways to easily locate your DOT number, ensure it’s active, and how to track its status.
What Is a DOT Number?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues DOT numbers (also called USDOT numbers) to commercial vehicles. This includes all commercial vehicles in the United States that transport either goods or people, so it doesn’t just apply to trucks. A DOT number is usually eight digits and must be painted on both sides of the truck cab, usually on the doors.
If you own a trucking business, operate a commercial vehicle, or manage a fleet, you must have a DOT number to comply with federal regulations. The FMCSA uses this number to track safety incidents with your trucks, drivers, or company.
The goal of DOT numbers is to reduce accidents and deaths on the road caused by unsafe drivers or businesses. If you receive too many strikes against your DOT number, the FMCSA can revoke your DOT number or certification, effectively putting you out of business. That’s why it’s so crucial to not only receive a DOT number but to operate your business (and vehicle) with safety as a priority.
Importance of a DOT Number
Having a DOT number is more than just a regulatory requirement—it’s a crucial component of operating a compliant and legally recognized commercial vehicle. A DOT number is crucial for several reasons:
- Compliance: The FMCSA DOT number system ensures that commercial carriers meet all safety and operational regulations. If you don’t check the status of your DOT number, you risk fines, penalties, or even being put out of service. The DOT and FMCSA conduct Level 1 DOT inspections periodically while you’re on the road, so it’s essential that your number is in good standing at all times.
- Safety: The FMCSA uses the DOT number check status system to monitor your safety records, inspections, and compliance history. Keeping your DOT number active is essential for maintaining a good safety rating and avoiding potential liabilities.
- Legitimacy: A valid DOT number shows that your company is properly registered and compliant with federal regulations. Customers and business partners may use a DOT number checker to verify your status before doing business with you, especially if you haul sensitive or specialized cargo. It’s also smart to include your DOT number in a trucking business plan, which can speed up the process of securing financing or an investment in your business.
Where to Find Your DOT Number
You’re not alone if you’re wondering, “Where can I find my DOT number?” Many trucking professionals and business owners need to quickly locate their DOT number for compliance checks, insurance paperwork, or customer verification.
Fortunately, there are several easy ways to find your DOT number details:
- On Your Truck: One of the easiest ways to find your DOT number is by checking the exterior of your truck. The FMCSA requires that all registered carriers display their DOT number on both sides of the truck in easily readable text.
- On Your Registration Documents: But what do you do if your DOT number is damaged? Check your official registration paperwork. Your DOT number is included in the documents provided when you first registered with the FMCSA.
- Searching the FMCSA Website: If you can’t find your registration paperwork—or you want to check another company’s DOT number—use the FMCSA SAFER system to find it online. Simply enter the company name or other identifying details to retrieve the number.
- Contacting the FMCSA: If you can’t locate your DOT number using any other method, you can call or email the FMCSA directly for help. They can help you find DOT number details or guide you through the DOT number check process.
How to Check Your DOT Number Status
The FMCSA will notify you if there are any issues with your DOT number status, but it’s still good to know how to check your status on your own. Whether you need to check the DOT number status for your own business or verify another company, there are several simple ways to do it:
1. Use the FMCSA Website
The easiest way to check the status of your DOT number is by using the official FMCSA DOT number tool online. Simply enter your DOT number or company name to access up-to-date information, including whether your registration is active, pending, or revoked.
2. Use a DOT Number Checker
The FMCSA is the best place to find up-to-date information on your DOT number status, but third-party tools are available. Still, it’s best to verify results with the FMCSA since other tools aren’t always accurate.
3. Check Your Safety Records
Not sure if there’s a strike on your DOT number? Your safety records can provide helpful clues for when it’s time to check your number status. If you receive notices from the FMCSA regarding compliance issues, it may be time to check the status of your DOT number.
It’s incredibly important to check to see if your DOT number is active. If it’s inactive or revoked, you may need to update your information, submit necessary documents, or pay outstanding fees. Take care of these issues ASAP so you can get back on the road without worrying about fines or legal action.
Who Needs a DOT Number?
Put simply, you need a DOT number if you operate a commercial transportation business that moves products or people. If you aren’t sure if you’re required to have a DOT number, the FMCSA specifies that these types of companies must register:
Commercial Trucking Companies
If you operate a trucking company, you must have a DOT number to verify legal status and track compliance history.
Interstate Commerce Operators
Federal law requires you to obtain and maintain a DOT number if your vehicle weighs more than 10,000 lbs and operates across state lines.
Hazardous Material Transporters
Any company that transports hazardous materials requiring a safety permit must register with the FMCSA and obtain a DOT number. If you’re involved in this industry, you may need to check DOT number status more frequently because of the number of requirements for hazardous cargo.
Passenger Vehicles
Companies that transport passengers—such as charter buses, shuttle services, or tour companies—must have a DOT number if they carry more than eight passengers for compensation or more than 15 passengers for non-compensated transport.
The rule of thumb is that any commercial business operating vehicles likely needs a DOT number. When in doubt, you can always contact the FMCSA to clarify whether you’re required to register.
If you don’t have a DOT number and are required to have one, you need to apply for it with the FMCSA. To obtain a DOT number, go to the FMCSA website and complete the Unified Registration System (URS) application. During the process, you will:
- Provide company details, including name, address, and type of operation.
- Submit vehicle information, such as weight, cargo type, and passenger capacity. If you’re just getting started, you can apply for a DOT number without a truck, although you’ll need to submit these details, plus proof of insurance, before your truck is considered compliant.
- Get a driver qualification file (DQF).
- Pay registration fees.
Once submitted, you’ll receive your new DOT number and can verify it using the DOT number checker. FMCSA will also conduct a DOT audit within the first 12 months of receiving your Provisional Certificate of Registration.
While it’s not always a requirement, it’s recommended that you get trucking authority as an owner-operator after receiving a DOT number. It’s helpful for compliance and allows you to control your loads, routes, hours, rates, and more.
Finding Your DOT Number FAQs
How do you check to see if a DOT number is still active?
The fastest way to see if a DOT number is active is to use the FMCSA SAFER online tool. Enter either the company name or DOT number to see whether the number is active, inactive, or revoked. Checking your DOT number status regularly will help you avoid business disruptions.
Are DOT numbers public information?
Yes. Anyone can use a third-party DOT number checker or the FMCSA check DOT number database to look up registration details, compliance records, and safety history. If you’re working with a new carrier or partner, you can check its DOT number status online to verify its legitimacy.
Do I use the same DOT number for all of my trucks?
Yes, a business typically uses one DOT number for its entire fleet, not separate numbers for each truck. However, if a company operates multiple trucking entities, each entity must have a unique DOT number.
Where do you find a DOT number on a truck?
The FMCSA requires that your DOT number be displayed on both sides of the truck. The DOT number must be clearly visible in a contrasting color and at least two inches in height. If the number on the truck is damaged or difficult to read, it is important to repair it immediately.
Michael McCareins is the Content Marketing Associate at altLINE, where he is dedicated to creating and managing optimal content for readers. Following a brief career in media relations, Michael has discovered a passion for content marketing through developing unique, informative content to help audiences better understand ideas and topics such as invoice factoring and A/R financing.
