Yes, if you operate a commercial vehicle that:

• • Transports passengers or cargo across state lines (interstate commerce).
  • Has a GVWR of 10,001 lbs or more.
  • Carries hazardous materials, regardless of size or weight. Some states also require USDOT numbers for intrastate operations.

• • Interstate operations: The FMCSA requires a minimum of $750,000 in liability coverage for general freight, but it can be higher for hazardous materials or passengers.
  • Intrastate operations: Minimum requirements vary by state. For example, Texas requires $750,000, while Illinois requires $1 million for hazardous materials.

• • MCS-90: A federal filing that ensures your liability insurance covers claims even if your policy wouldn’t normally apply.
  • BMC-91: A filing your insurance company submits to FMCSA, proving you meet minimum liability coverage. If you operate interstate, both are mandatory.

UCR is an annual registration system for interstate motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders. If you operate across state lines, you must file it to avoid penalties.

• • Maintain proper insurance coverage and ensure all filings are up-to-date.
  • Comply with hours-of-service (HOS) regulations to prevent driver fatigue.
  • Pass the New Entrant Safety Audit within the first 18 months of starting your business.
  • Keep accurate maintenance and inspection records for your fleet.

Some FMCSA regulations, such as those on drug and alcohol testing, still apply to intrastate operations. Additionally, states may have their own requirements, like USDOT numbers and insurance minimums

• A compliance audit involves checking your:
  • Driver qualification files (background checks, medical certifications).
  • Hours-of-service logs.
  • Maintenance records.
  • Insurance filings and coverage. Failing the audit can lead to fines or loss of your operating authority.

• • Hire experienced drivers with clean records.
  • Implement a robust safety program and telematics devices to track safe driving.
  • Bundle multiple policies (e.g., liability and cargo) with the same insurer.

• • Hire experienced drivers with clean records.
  • Implement a robust safety program and telematics devices to track safe driving.
  • Bundle multiple policies (e.g., liability and cargo) with the same insurer.

• • • Interstate trucking involves transporting goods or passengers across state lines or into foreign countries. FMCSA regulations fully apply.
    • Intrastate trucking involves operations within a single state. State-specific rules may apply, but some FMCSA requirements, like drug testing, still apply.

While cargo insurance isn’t federally mandated, most shippers require it. It covers the value of the goods you’re transporting against loss or damage

• Penalties include:
  • Suspension or revocation of your operating authority.
  • Fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per violation.
  • Increased insurance premiums or policy cancellations.
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You must update your USDOT registration every two years, even if no information changes. This is known as the Biennial Update

An MC (Motor Carrier) number is required for interstate for-hire carriers or freight forwarders. Private carriers transporting their goods usually don’t need an MC number but must still comply with USDOT requirements

No. New carriers must complete the New Entrant Program, including a safety audit within the first 18 months. Failing this program can result in suspension of operating authority.