Both the Motor Carrier (MC) Number and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Number serve as unique identifiers for entities involved in interstate and intrastate commerce, particularly in the trucking and commercial motor carrier industries. However, they have distinct purposes and requirements. Let's delve into both:

1. DOT Number:
   • Purpose: The DOT Number serves as an identifier for safety compliance and tracking. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) uses this number to monitor a company's safety record.
   • Who needs it?:
     • Commercial vehicles that transport passengers or haul cargo in interstate commerce.
     • Vehicles with 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 designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation.
     • Vehicles designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, and not used to transport passengers for compensation.
     • Vehicles used to transport hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placarding.
   • Requirements:
     • Companies must keep updated information regarding their business, operational status, and safety record.
2. MC Number (Motor Carrier Number):
   • Purpose: The MC Number is specifically for entities that transport regulated commodities across state lines for compensation. It grants authority to operate as a for-hire carrier.
   • Who needs it?:
     • For-hire carriers transporting regulated commodities in interstate commerce.
     • Carriers that transport passengers in interstate commerce.
     • FMCSA provides different types of authority, so businesses should ensure they apply for the right type (e.g., property, passenger, broker).
   • Requirements:
     • Before obtaining an MC Number, carriers must register for a DOT Number.
     • Proof of liability insurance and a BOC-3 (Designation of Agents for Service of Process) filing is also required for the MC authority to become active.

In essence, while the DOT Number focuses on safety compliance, the MC Number focuses on granting authority to transport regulated goods or passengers for compensation across state lines.

However, it's important to note that not all entities with a DOT Number will need an MC Number, but those needing an MC Number must first have a DOT Number. Also, rules and regulations can evolve, so always refer to the FMCSAregistration.com website or consult with professionals when determining what's needed for your operations.

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/

Also check out our help center: https://fmcsaregistration.zendesk.com/hc/en-us