Gain access to rules and regulations that apply to your operation, learn how to apply for or renew registration and understand basic safety protocols.
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Getting started
General rules
Depending on where you are operating your commercial or farm vehicles, consider the following.
Operating across states?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees rules and enforcement for commercial vehicles that operate across states.
Operating within one state?
If your business only operates within one state, check with your state's agency that handles commercial or farm vehicles.
Registering with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)
Do I need a USDOT number?
You are required to obtain a USDOT number if you are involved in interstate* commerce and if you have a vehicle that:
- Is used to transport the types and quantities of hazardous materials requiring a safety permit in intrastate commerce (see 49 CFR 385.403).
OR
- Has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating–or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of 4,536 kg (10,001 pounds) or more, whichever is greater; or
- Is designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation; or
- Is designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers (including the driver) and is not used to transport passengers for compensation.
*If you operate within one state, you may still be required to obtain a USDOT number. Check with your state's agency (PDF).
Applying for the first time
For more information and to complete the application process, visit the FMCSA website.
Any time a carrier or other regulated entity changes its name or address, or other details in their record, they should update their USDOT and operating authority record with FMCSA in a timely manner.
In addition, FMCSA requires all entities under its authority to update their information every two years.
Safety management and measurement
Developing a manual of safety policies and procedures
A custom guide for your company's fleet policies and rules is essential for managing safety and operations. It should outline acceptable practices and behaviors for clarity and consistency. Tailor the manual to your company's specific needs, as a one-size-fits-all approach is often ineffective.
View the following sample policies to get started.
- Non-business-related transportation of personal property (PDF) – Technical bulletin
- Process agents and BOC-3 form (PDF) – Technical bulletin
- Company use of personal vehicles guide (PDF) - Policy acknowledgement form (PDF)
- Personal use of company vehicles guide (PDF) - Policy acknowledgement form (PDF)
- State CMV agencies (PDF)
Safety Measurement System (SMS)
The FMCSA uses the CSA/SMS system to assess motor carrier safety based on roadside inspections and crash data. Monthly scores are published, and carriers should check their data regularly through their portal account. Carriers with scores above a certain threshold may be contacted by the FMCSA for possible intervention, including a full compliance review.
Have more questions about FMCSA?
Visit the FMCSA frequently asked questions pages for more information.
Essential guide to rules and regulations for commercial and farm vehicles
Each section outlines the steps you need to take in order to be compliant with regulations in a topic area, and includes downloadable tools and resources to facilitate the process.
Contact us for assistance with safety and risk management services
Call 1-800-260-1356 or email RMSolutions@nationwide.com