The MC number is going away. Here’s what you need to know.
For decades, if you wanted to haul regulated freight across state lines, you needed a Motor Carrier (MC) number. It’s been as fundamental to trucking as a steering wheel. But a major change is on the horizon, and it’s important you’re ready. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is officially phasing out the MC number system.
Starting October 1, 2025, your USDOT number will become your single, unique identifier for all regulatory purposes. This guide will walk you through what this means, why it’s happening, and the simple steps you can take to ensure your business is ready for a smooth transition.
What’s really changing with your operating authority?
Currently, the system is a bit clunky. You have:
A USDOT Number: This identifies your specific company for safety and compliance tracking (like a Social Security Number for your business).
An MC Number (or FF/MX Number): This grants you the authority to operate as a for-hire carrier, broker, or freight forwarder (like a driver's license for your business).
Under the new Unified Registration System (URS), the FMCSA is combining these roles. Your USDOT number will not only identify your company but will also be the number your operating authority is attached to. All other authority numbers, including the MC, FF (Freight Forwarder), and MX (Mexico-domiciled) numbers, will be retired.
Think of it this way: instead of carrying two pieces of ID, you’ll just have one all-purpose card that proves who you are and that you’re authorized to do business.
Why the FMCSA is making this change (and how it helps you)
This change has two main goals that directly benefit legitimate operators like you.
1. To Stop Fraudulent "Chameleon Carriers" You’ve probably heard stories about them. A carrier racks up a terrible safety score and numerous violations, so they simply shut down their business, get a new MC number under a slightly different name, and pop back up with a "clean" record.
By linking a carrier’s authority to their permanent USDOT number, that safety history can no longer be erased. It will follow them forever. This helps weed out the bad actors, making the roads safer and protecting brokers and shippers from hiring irresponsible carriers.
2. To Simplify Compliance Having one number for everything—from your insurance filings and UCR registration to drug and alcohol testing and safety audits—makes the entire compliance process more streamlined. It reduces confusion and potential errors, saving you headaches in the long run.
Your step-by-step plan to prepare for October 2025
While the FMCSA will handle the technical side, proactive carriers should take a few steps to guarantee they're ahead of the curve.
Step 1: Verify Your FMCSA Information This is the most important step. Go to the FMCSA SAFER website and do a search for your USDOT number. Carefully review your company’s profile.
Is your legal business name spelled correctly?
Is your mailing address and contact information up to date?
Is your "Operating Status" listed as 'AUTHORIZED' for the type of freight you haul? Any errors here could cause major problems, so file a biennial update (MCS-150) to correct them immediately.
Step 2: Communicate with Your Business Partners Don't assume your partners are on top of this.
Your Insurance Agent: Call them and confirm they will be using your USDOT number as the sole identifier on your future insurance filings (like the BMC-91X).
Brokers and Shippers: When setting up new contracts or carrier packets, make sure they are logging you in their system primarily by your USDOT number.
Factoring Companies: Let them know about the change to ensure your invoices and notices of assignment are updated correctly.
Step 3: Update Your Own Paperwork and Branding Look at all the places your MC number lives and make a plan to phase it out.
Truck Lettering: Your truck must display your legal company name and USDOT number. While the MC number was often included, it will no longer be necessary.
Business Documents: Review your invoices, rate confirmations, business cards, and email signatures.
Website and Marketing: Update your "About Us" or "Compliance" pages on your website to reflect your USDOT number as your primary authority credential.
A quick FAQ on the new system
What actually happens to my old MC number? It doesn't just disappear. The FMCSA will keep it on file, permanently linking it to your USDOT profile as part of your company's historical record. You just won't use it for any active business after the change.
I’m a new carrier applying for authority. What do I do? Your life gets easier. After October 1, 2025, you will simply apply for a USDOT number and operating authority through a single online application. You won't be issued an MC number at all.
How will this affect my UCR registration? It shouldn't directly change your UCR process. The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) already uses your USDOT number as the main identifier. This change just makes the FMCSA's system consistent with the UCR system.
How will I show what kind of authority I have? It's expected that the FMCSA will add a suffix to your USDOT number on your public profile to show your specific authority type. For example, a for-hire carrier of property might be displayed with a "-P" after their number. This is yet to be fully finalized, but the information will be clear on your profile.
Don’t get left behind—start preparing today
This is a positive change for the industry, bringing more security and simplicity for everyone. By taking a few small steps now, you can ensure your business is ready for the October 2025 transition without any disruptions.
Staying on top of compliance is non-negotiable. If you have questions about this change or need assistance ensuring your authority and paperwork are in perfect order, the experts at TIPS are always here to guide you.