If you work in the trucking industry you already know there are many regulations you need to follow for the products you’re delivering. Some drivers may need a DOT number while others have an MC number, but do you know which one you need to do your job? Here is some information as to the difference between a DOT and an MC number, when you need each one and how to get what you need.
What is a DOT number?
For trucking companies that use commercial vehicles to transport either passengers or cargo across any interstate must register with FMCSA and must possess a valid DOT number. In addition to a DOT number, if you are transporting hazardous materials you will need additional safety permits relevant to what you are transporting.
What is an MC number?
An operating authority, or an MC number, is needed for companies that participate in transporting federally regulated commodities, freelancing as a for-hire carriers or transporting passengers. If your business is involved in arranging transportation, but you don’t own or operate the vehicles doing the transporting, you will still require a MC number when involved in the aforementioned types of transport.
For most companies, they only require one DOT number for the whole company and it covers all the operations of that company. Unlike a DOT, a company many require multiple MC numbers for each of the types of transporting they are participating in. An operating authority does dictate which type of hauling a company is allowed to do, so it’s really important to make sure your company’s MC numbers are up to date.
How do I know if I need a DOT or MC number?
These two regulations only apply to vehicles deemed commercial vehicles, but that could be a pretty broad definition. Here’s a little more concrete definition of what a commercial vehicle is: a vehicle that is used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) or hauling commercial goods for compensation. If you’re driving from one point to another, and your secondary point is in another state than your business needs a DOT, and potentially an MC, number as you’re now engaged in interstate transportation.
For most companies, they only require one DOT number for the whole company and it covers all the operations of that company. Unlike a DOT, a company many require multiple MC numbers for each of the types of transporting they are participating in. An operating authority does dictate which type of hauling a company is allowed to do, so it’s really important to make sure your company’s MC numbers are up to date.
Ensuring your licenses and registrations are up to date is important for the continuity of business. If you’re unsure about what applies to your business, or where to post your DOT and MC numbers contacting your local Department of Transportation branch will be give you more insight as to exactly what you need to do. Make sure you are fully covered so your business doesn’t suffer!
