4 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for US DOT Number

While a US DOT number can be very beneficial for your commercial motor carrier business, you will have to carefully apply for it in order to ensure that you don’t make any mistakes. This number is important for your business and ensures that you stay compliant with the state regulations. 

However, businesses make certain mistakes when applying for this number for their commercial vehicles. These mistakes are usually made during the application process, so that’s what we are here to help you with. Below in this article, we will briefly mention the top 4 mistakes you must avoid when applying for a US DOT number. 

Keep reading to find out useful insights. 

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Information 

Your business information is what serves as a basis to get a US DOT number. If you provide inaccurate or incomplete business information in your application, it will only lead to problems for you and your business credibility. 

These mistakes can range from providing missing details, typographical errors, or any information that is outdated. These mistakes will then lead to delays in processing your application, which can result in the rejection of your application in some cases. 

To avoid these problems, you will need to carefully review all the information you have provided in the application form, including company details, personal information, vehicle specifications, and contact numbers. 

2. Not Verifying Eligibility 

If you are a commercial motor carrier business, not every vehicle in your fleet will be eligible for a US DOT number. It is important to understand that only commercial vehicles and trucks that are involved in interstate commerce or activities are eligible for getting a US DOT number. 

These vehicles should have a GVWR or CGVWR rating of 10,001 pounds or more and should also fall in the above-mentioned categories. Confirming all these things and the eligibility of your vehicle/s ensures that you save both time and resources that might otherwise be spent on an unnecessary application process. 

3. Neglecting Safety Regulations 

US DOT number is mainly obtained to stay compliant with federal safety regulations. While submitting an application for the US DOT number, ensure that your commercial vehicles follow all the safety standards and regulations listed by the federal government. 

Failing to adhere to these standards can result in fines, penalties, or even the suspension of your DOT number. That’s why it’s essential to stay informed about the specific safety requirements applicable to your type of operation, including vehicle maintenance and driver qualifications. 

4. Not Updating Information When Necessary 

Once you have your vehicle’s US DOT number by providing all the necessary information about your company, it is advised to keep the authorities updated about any changes in this information. Any changes in the company ownership, structure, or address details should be promptly reported to the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). 

In case you fail to do so and authorities get to know it by any other sources, it will be a communication breakdown, which will further lead to difficulties in making your company’s safety record compliant.