---
title: "What is USDOT number?"
description: "The unique number FMCSA uses to identify a motor carrier for safety monitoring."
canonical: https://mydotcheck.com/glossary/usdot-number
last_updated: 2026-10-21
---

# What is USDOT number?

The unique number FMCSA uses to identify a motor carrier for safety monitoring.

A USDOT number identifies a company that operates commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce, and in many states intrastate commerce too. FMCSA uses it to track a carrier's inspections, crashes, audits and compliance reviews.

The number is free and must be kept current with an MCS-150 update every 24 months. An inactive USDOT number can lead to fines and out-of-service orders.

## Learn more

-   [DOT Number Lookup: Check Any Carrier's USDOT Record Free](/dot-number-lookup)
-   [How to Get a DOT Number (and MC Authority) in 2026](/how-to-get-a-dot-number)

Check your DOT number

---
Canonical URL: https://mydotcheck.com/glossary/usdot-number
Title: What is USDOT number?