Free USDOT Number Filing
We file your USDOT number with the FMCSA at no cost.
A USDOT number is required for any business operating commercial vehicles in interstate commerce, and most states require one for intrastate operations too.
Filing directly with the FMCSA is free, but mistakes on your application can cost significant time & waste your starting cash.
Most companies charge $50-$200 to file your DOT number for you. We don't. TIPS files your USDOT number at no cost to make sure your application is done correctly and you can start operating as quickly as possible. We also help you avoid an overwhelming amount of solicitation calls & emails that you can expect when you file yourself.
Who needs a USDOT Number?
You need a USDOT Number if your vehicle:
Has a gross or combined weight rating of 10,001 lbs or more
Is designed to transport 9 or more passengers for compensation
Is designed to transport 16 or more passengers not for compensation
Transports hazardous materials requiring a placard or safety permit
This applies to for-hire trucking companies, but also private fleets like construction companies, landscapers, dump truck operators, well drillers, and any other business running commercial vehicles. Even if you only operate within your state, most states have adopted the same USDOT requirements for intrastate commerce.
USDOT Number vs. MC Number
USDOT Number
A USDOT Number identifies your company for safety tracking and is generally required for both interstate & intrastate-only operations when your company uses commercial motor vehicles as part of it’s business. If you’re private-property, or only operate within your state, you likely only need a USDOT number.
MC Number
An MC Number (Motor Carrier Authority) gives you legal authority to haul freight or passengers across state-lines for compensation. If you’re being paid to haul freight or people across state lines, you’ll need an MC number. If you plan to operate within your state but want to sign up for load boards, you’ll need one too.
Not sure which one applies to you? We’ll help you figure it out.
What Happens After You Get Your USDOT Number?
Getting your USDOT Number is the first step. Depending on your operation, you may also need:
MC authority (for-hire interstate carriers)
BOC-3 process agent filing
UCR registration
IFTA and IRP (vehicles over 26,000 lbs crossing state lines)
Drug and alcohol testing program (CDL drivers)
Driver qualification files
FMCSA Clearinghouse registration
State Permits & Intrastate Authorities
Within your first 12 months, the FMCSA will conduct a New Entrant Safety Audit to verify you're meeting all requirements. We help carriers understand exactly what applies to their operation and ensure you stay informed and compliant from day one. We also have start-up packages that include everything you need to be compliant based on what type of vehicles you plan on using.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Filing a USDOT number with the FMCSA is free. Most other companies charge $50-$200 for this service.
TIPS files it for you at no cost. -
Your USDOT number is issued instantly after submitting the application electronically.
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Yes. You can file directly through the FMCSA via the Unified Registration System (soon to be MOTUS). Be careful of third-party sites that look official but charge fees for free services. If you'd rather have us handle it to avoid mistakes and spam calls / emails, we'll do it at no cost.
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If your number is inactive or you need to make changes, we can help with reinstatement or MCS-150 amendments.
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Only if you're hauling freight or passengers for compensation across state lines. Private carriers and intrastate-only operators typically don't need MC authority.
We'll file your USDOT number for free, help you understand what other requirements apply to your operation, and we’ll manage all or some of your compliance requirements.