If you're referring to the requirements for getting a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number specifically for Indiana-based commercial vehicles, it's essential to remember that the USDOT number is a federal requirement, while the state of Indiana might have its own specifications on when and how you need to register.

As of my last training data in September 2021, here are the general guidelines:

1. Federal Requirements for a USDOT Number:
   • Any commercial vehicle that transports hazardous materials and is required to have a safety permit.
   • Vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating, or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight, of 10,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater.
   • Vehicles that are designed to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation.
   • Vehicles that are designed to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, and is not used to transport passengers for compensation.
   • Also, any other vehicle used in interstate commerce to transport passengers or property when the vehicle:
     • Has a GVWR or GVW of 10,001 pounds or more, or
     • Is involved in interstate commerce and is transporting hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placards.
2. Specific Indiana operating authority requirements:
   • Indiana has its own regulations for commercial vehicles, and they are managed by the Indiana Department of Revenue's Motor Carrier Services. If you're operating exclusively within Indiana, you should look into the intrastate regulations.
   • If you plan to operate your vehicle both inside and outside of Indiana, then you're engaging in interstate commerce, and the federal requirements mentioned above apply.
   • The state might also have specific permits or regulations depending on the type of cargo you are transporting, such as oversize/overweight permits.
3. How to Obtain a USDOT Number:
   • The USDOT number is obtained through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can register online using the Unified Registration System.
   • Make sure all the information is accurate. Providing false information can result in penalties.
4. Maintenance and Updates:
   • Once you have a USDOT number, you're required to update the information every two years or if any significant changes occur in your business, like a change in company name or number of vehicles.
5. Displaying the USDOT Number:
   • The USDOT number must be displayed prominently on both sides of the commercial vehicle. The lettering must be in a contrasting color to the background and be easily readable from 50 feet away during daylight hours.

Lastly, always make sure to consult the official FMCSA website or the Indiana Department of Revenue's Motor Carrier Services for the most current and accurate information on regulations. Regulations and requirements can change, and being updated is essential to ensure compliance.

We offer full trucking authority packages to make the launching of your trucking company business go more smoothly. The Department of Transportation regulates safety so doing it right in the begging is very important.

If you have any questions please call: (866) 477-0707
Or visit: https://fmcsaregistration.com/

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