Mistakes to avoid

Common USDOT Application Mistakes (and How to Avoid a Second Number)

Most second USDOT numbers are not created on purpose. They come from a new registration that should have been a claim, a second filing after the first one seemed stuck, or details that do not match the legal company.

Starting a new registration when a number already exists

This is the mistake that matters most. MCS-150 instructions say not to submit a new application if the company already has, or has had, a USDOT number. In Motus, the company officer should claim the existing record, as described in the claim job aid. If two records may already exist, see duplicatedot.com.

Looking up and claiming the existing record takes more care up front. A second number usually takes much longer to sort out afterward.

Applying twice because the first attempt seemed stuck

A slow sign-in, an unfinished identity check, or a status you cannot find is not a reason to file again. Check Motus and SAFER first. See how to check application status. Never treat a second application as a status check.

Sign-in problems and missing status views have to be checked in Motus and SAFER. Filing again feels faster and is how a duplicate record gets created.

A legal name or tax ID that does not match the legal person

The name and tax ID should match the legal person being registered. A mismatch can stall a filing or make the record look like a different company. See EIN or SSN on the application.

Matching the name and tax ID to the legal person, and to each other, is slower than typing from memory and prevents a filing that looks like a different company.

The wrong person certifying

The person who certifies should be the owner, a partner, or an authorized corporate officer. An office manager or dispatcher should not certify in that person's place. See who can file or certify.

Getting the owner, a partner, or an authorized corporate officer involved before you certify avoids having to undo a filing started by someone who could not make that certification.

Paying for or selecting operating authority you do not need

Authority fees are described as nonrefundable on FMCSA's fee page. Use the USDOT Wizard before you add authority you may not need. See applying for a USDOT number and authority together.

Working through the USDOT Wizard first takes a little time. Authority fees are described as nonrefundable on FMCSA's fee page.

Using a third-party form or an expired MCS-150

A first-time number is filed in Motus. If you need a paper MCS-150 for an update, get the current file from FMCSA, not from a random site. See application form: Motus vs. MCS-150.

Getting the current file from FMCSA, or using Motus for a first-time number, is an extra check that avoids filling out a form the agency will not accept.

Frequently asked questions