A Brief Guide on Why you Need a DOT Certificate for Your Transport Vehicle

If you are thinking about starting a moving company or any other truck business then you need a DOT number. DOT certification is a seal of quality that shows that the driver has the skills and competence to drive commercial vehicles on roads and highways, especially in America. You also need to know colorado dot rules and regulations to become a certified and licensed driver. 

To become DOT certified, a driver must undergo a physical exam and a series of safe-driving tests. 

Now that you know what a DOT certificate is about, let’s discuss more important things about it. 

How Much Does a DOT Number Cost?

The registration process for DOT is free but the FMCSA website will ask you to submit your credit card number to confirm your identity. But the site will not charge using your card for filling out the form or issuance of your USDOT Number. 

The credit card is basically used as your signature. For online applications, there are no alternative requirements. If you are still hesitant about sharing credit card information online then you can fill out a paper application and send the form via email. 

Why do you Need a DOT Number?

Many truck owners have a misconception that only long-haul trucking fleets require DOT numbers. It applies to more types of vehicles and before you plan to operate any kind of vehicle, you need to see whether you will need a DOT number or not. 

Some states might have this requirement for certain vehicles. On the contrary, some states require you to have a DOT number. 

If you perform any of the following activities as a commercial driver then you will need to file for a USDOT registration. 

• If you transport 16 or more passengers without compensation.
• If you transport hazardous materials.
• Transport 9 to 15 passengers for compensation.
• When you use vehicles that weigh more than 10,000 pounds.
• When you drive a commercial vehicle on interstate routes.

Requirements of a USDOT Number

Even though the process of filing for a USDOT number is relatively easy, it does require some knowledge about the legal classification of your business. Besides knowing basic information, you will also need to gather some information about cargo, operations, and company rules. 

Additional information about the USDOT number includes the number of vehicles you plan to operate, the type of vehicles, and the state of your ownership. 

It also depends upon whether you want to operate interstate or intrastate. You will also need to know your classification if you transport hazardous chemicals. 

Different Types of Vehicles

Depending on the trucking business there are different requirements when it comes to filing for a DOT number. Let’s have a look at some vehicles and if they need a DOT number or not.

Farming Vehicles

You might not need a DOT number to operate a vehicle on your private farm. But if you are hired by a farm owner, you will probably be required to have a commercial driver’s license. 

Landscaping Vehicles

The vehicle for landscape falls under the category of commercial vehicles so it might require you to file for a DOT number to operate it. 

Small Passenger Carrier Vans

If you are using a van or any other small passenger carrier to carry around 9 to 15 passengers for direct compensation, then you will need a DOT number. If you are receiving payment directly from passengers for your services, it makes you subject to FMCSA requirements. 

Hire a Third Party Compliance Service

It might be challenging to carry the registration yourself along with other business operations. So it’s best to hire a third-party DOT registration service. It spares you the burden of researching FMSA requirements and marking dates on the calendar for re-registration filings. 

It also prevents the costly mistake of paying fines that trucking companies face who violate DOT requirements. 

Following are the benefits of hiring a third-party registration service. 

• You can focus on your daily business operations without worrying about updates on your DOT number.
• Ensures that all requirements are met so you don’t violate any DOT or FMCSA policy.

Make sure that the company you hire knows the ins and outs of how the requirements work in your field.