According to the FMCSA website, a USDOT Number is required if you have:

• • vehicles that are over 10,000 lbs,
  • if you transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver) for compensation,
  • if you transport 16 or more passengers, or
  • haul hazardous materials in interstate commerce.
    For intrastate carriers, USDOT number requirements vary from state to state. If you do not know if your state requires intrastate motor carriers to have a USDOT Number, contact the Office of Motor Carrier Safety field office in your state. For a listing of State offices, go to the FMCSA website and click on Field Offices.

• • These offices are listed by region with telephone numbers to answer your questions and to provide you with guidance concerning the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

• • There is no application fee required for the U.S. DOT Number. You must complete the MCS-150 (Motor Carrier Identification Report) to obtain a USDOT Number. The form can be found at the FMCSA website. Click on online registration. There is a step by step registration guide to assist you.

• • If you request a USDOT Number on the Internet you will receive your USDOT Number immediately and a confirmation letter will be mailed to you by the FMCSA.

• • Generally, if you are operating as a "for-hire" motor carrier of regulated commodities or passengers in interstate commerce, you must also obtain interstate Operating Authority (MC Number) There are some exemptions to this requirement, which is explained in detail on the FMCSA website.

• For detailed information, guidance through the registration process, and to obtain a USDOT or Operating Authority (MC) number, visit the FMCSA website.