You can visit this FMCSA webpage to start your application now. If you would like to contact the FMCSA with questions, you can call them at 800-832-5660.

A USDOT number gives authorities another way of identifying your truck(s), for the purpose of collecting and monitoring your safety information. When the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducts audits, inspections, or compliance reviews, it uses DOT numbers in its reporting. DOT numbers are also collected during accident investigations.

Up until recently, federal DOT numbers were only required for commercial vehicles driving interstate routes (traveling across state lines), or for those carrying dangerous cargo. However, Massachusetts recently changed its rules to expand the requirement. Now, all commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds* need to obtain and display a DOT number—even if you only drive inside Massachusetts borders.

*NOTE: This weight class typically includes heavy-duty pickup trucks, box trucks, walk-in vans, and larger utility vehicles—like bucket trucks.

It doesn’t cost anything to get a USDOT number. But you will need to pay for the truck lettering to display your business name/DOT number on company vehicles, according to specified terms. Depending on how elaborate you want to get, custom graphics run between $195 and $600 per vehicle, according to Alliance Glass and Sign, based in Dorchester. If your trucks are already labeled with your company information, vinyl DOT number decals can be purchased for much less.

Vinyl signage experts like the team at Alliance will make sure you’re in compliance with the law. But essentially, here are the key points to keep in mind:

You have until September 1, 2018, to get your DOT number and be sure all applicable company trucks are displaying it. Keep in mind though, the FMCSA is backlogged at this time. We recommend starting the process as soon as possible. Please don’t hesitate to call us if you have questions about the new MA State Markings Regulation, commercial auto insurance, or what you need to do.

If you don’t have the information displayed by the first of September, you could be subject to civil fines and your vehicles could be placed “out of service” until you comply with this rule. What’s more, without the proper lettering, you may be increasing your chances of getting pulled over—especially by Massachusetts State Police.