Why a DOT number becomes inactive
Operating a commercial vehicle on an inactive USDOT number can lead to fines and out-of-service orders at roadside.
- The MCS-150 biennial update was not filed by its due date
- The company asked FMCSA to deactivate it (out of business)
- FMCSA revoked or suspended the registration, for example after an unsatisfactory safety rating or an unpaid civil penalty
How to reactivate a DOT number
- Look up your number to see its current status and last MCS-150 date
- File an updated MCS-150 with current power units, drivers, mileage and contact details, online through FMCSA's registration portal
- If FMCSA revoked the registration or your operating authority, resolve the reason first (for example, insurance or a penalty) and follow the reinstatement steps FMCSA gives you
- Allow a few days for the census to show the new status, then check again
How to deactivate or cancel a DOT number
If you stop operating commercial vehicles, file an MCS-150 and mark it as an out-of-business notification. FMCSA then deactivates the USDOT number. If you also hold MC operating authority, request revocation of that authority separately so insurance and filing requirements stop.
Keep the number active if you might operate again soon: reactivating is simpler than registering a new company.
MyDotCheck is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or part of the U.S. Department of Transportation or FMCSA. Data comes from public FMCSA datasets and may lag official records by a day or more. Government filings can be made directly with FMCSA at no charge.