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US DOT Lookup – How to Quickly and Accurately Check a Carrier’s USDOT Number?

Why Is It Important to Check a USDOT Number?

If you're hiring a trucking or logistics company, one of the most critical things you need to do is verify their USDOT number. In the United States, all commercial motor carriers are required to have a USDOT number registered in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) database.

This unique identifier allows federal and state agencies, as well as companies, to track a firm's safety record, compliance status, and operation history. When a company's USDOT number is suspended, inactive, or has a poor safety record, it may be extremely risky to conduct business with them.

Here we will walk you through how to free search a USDOT number, which databases to use, and answer the most frequently asked questions about USDOT verification and registration.

Want to verify a company's tax ID number? Our Guide to EIN Database can instruct you on how to search Employer Identification Numbers efficiently.

1. What is a USDOT Number and Why Does It Matter?

A USDOT number, or a United States Department of Transportation Number, is an identification number federally issued that the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) assigns to them. Each company that has to transport products commercially in interstate commerce must be issued a USDOT number.

1.1 Who Is Required to Get a USDOT Number?

The companies and vehicles mentioned below are required to get a USDOT number:

1. Commercial motor carriers within the U.S.
2. Vehicles transporting hazardous materials, whether moving in one state or between states.
3. Vehicles over 10,000 pounds (4,500 kg) that are used for business.
4. Interstate carriers traveling across state lines.

If a company is required to have a USDOT number but does not obtain one, it can be fined and ultimately closed.

2. How to Get a USDOT Number

If you have to search for a USDOT number, you can use several publicly available databases.

2.1 Locating a USDOT Number in FMCSA SAFER

The most precise way to verify a USDOT number is through the use of the FMCSA SAFER (Safety and Fitness Electronic Records) system.

How to Search a USDOT Number in the SAFER System:

1. Visit the FMCSA SAFER page: https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
2. Choose a search type: Search by a USDOT number or firm name.
3. Read the results: The search results will show the operating status of the company, insurance information, and safety record.

2.2 Other Databases to Check USDOT Numbers

For more detailed information, you may also use the following sources:

1. FMCSA Licensing & Insurance Database (FMCSA Licensing & Insurance Database) – Offers detailed insurance and registration data.
2. Carrier Search Tool (Carrier Search Tool) – FMCSA's official search tool for detailed carrier information.

3. How to Verify if a USDOT Number is Active?

A USDOT company number can become inactive when the company fails to follow federal regulations or has serious violations.

3.1 Steps to Check USDOT Number Status

1. Go to the FMCSA SAFER database.
2. Type in the company name or USDOT number.
3. Check the "Operating Status" field: Active – The company operates legally. Inactive – The USDOT number has expired or is not in use. Out of Service – The FMCSA has placed the company out of service for being in violation of regulations.

Pro Tip: If a company's USDOT number is inactive or out of service, this is an indication that there can be compliance or safety issues.

4. Are USDOT Numbers Public Records?

One of the most common questions is: "Are DOT numbers public?" The answer is yes.

USDOT numbers and their associated company information are considered public records and are available for anyone to search using FMCSA databases.

4.1 What Information is Available in a USDOT Lookup?

A USDOT lookup provides valuable details, including:

✔ Company name and address
✔ Fleet size
✔ Insurance status
✔ Licenses and operating status
✔ Safety history and compliance records

5. Are USDOT and DOT Numbers the Same?

Most individuals get USDOT numbers mixed up with DOT numbers, though they are not always the same.

A USDOT number is assigned by the FMCSA and is a federal identifier for commercial carriers.
A DOT number may be a state-level identifier, assigned by state transportation authorities.

Key Consideration: While a company which operates in a single state alone might not have to obtain a federal USDOT number, but may have to get a state DOT number in place of that.

6. How to Employ US DOT Lookup for Business and Compliance?

For those in transportation, logistics, or supply chains, verifying a USDOT number prior to operating with a carrier is essential.

6.1 When Do You Need to Validate a USDOT Number?

✔ Prior to contracting with a trucking company for freight haulage
✔ When checking a new logistics partner
✔ To verify compliance prior to contract signing
✔ In case you suspect fraudulent carriers or unsafe operators

6.2 How Often Should You Check a Carrier's USDOT Status?

✔ At least once a year, to guarantee ongoing compliance
✔ Prior to signing any contracts
✔ In case a company has had previous violations or suspensions

7. Common USDOT Number Lookup FAQs

7.1 How Frequently is USDOT Data Refreshed?

The FMCSA updates its SAFER database constantly, but the status of operation can take several days to appear.

7.2 Is it Possible to Find a USDOT Number by VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)?

No. USDOT searches are company name or USDOT number-based, not by vehicle VINs.

7.3 What if a Carrier's USDOT Status is Suspended?

If a USDOT number of a company is suspended or inactive, you should not conduct business with them until their compliance issues are resolved.

Conclusion – How to Use US DOT Lookup Effectively?

Verifying a USDOT number is a critical process in maintaining compliance, safety, and legitimacy in the trucking and logistics business.

The FMCSA SAFER system and other databases enable you to check a carrier's operating status for free. Always check their USDOT record before entering into any business with any carrier to prevent safety and legal hazards.

Using the US DOT lookup tools, you can:
✅ Reassure yourself that a company is legally operating
✅ Check their safety record and compliance
✅ Insulate your business from unsafe carriers

Do not take a risk – always verify the USDOT number before contracting a carrier!