Get or update a DOT number in CT

DOT number overview

The DOT number—sometimes stylized as USDOT or U.S. DOT number—is an identification number issued to motor carriers and shippers by the US Department of Transportation.

You need an intrastate DOT number if you operate any motor vehicle that is:

engaged in intrastate commerce and has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of 18,001 or more pounds; or,
used in the transportation of hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placarding; or,
designed or used to transport more than eight passengers, including the driver, for compensation, or is designed or used to transport more than fifteen passengers, including the driver, and is not used to transport passengers for compensation.

You need an interstate DOT number if you operate any motor vehicle that is:

engaged in interstate commerce and has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of 10,001 or more pounds; or,
used in the transportation of hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placarding; or,
designed or used to transport more than eight passengers, including the driver, for compensation, or is designed or used to transport more than fifteen passengers, including the driver, and is not used to transport passengers for compensation.

Be aware that all interstate motor carriers are subject to a required safety audit. For more information regarding the New Entrant Safety Assurance Program and the safety audit, please visit the website.

Any company revoked as an interstate motor carrier is not eligible to become an intrastate motor carrier until the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has lifted the revoked status.

Laws on motor carrier safety standards

C.G.S. 14-163c lists the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and the Hazardous Materials Regulations adopted by the State. Both Interstate and Intrastate motor carriers are subject to these laws, and it is your responsibility to comply with all state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to the operation of motor vehicles in intrastate or interstate commerce.

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DOT FAQs

How do I apply for an intrastate or interstate DOT number?

You apply for your DOT number online.

How do I update my intrastate or interstate DOT number?

To update your number, visit the FMCSA identification report site.

You need to update your interstate and intrastate DOT numbers every 24 months, or immediately if there are any changes. Please refer to FMCSA updates site for detailed instruction.

How do I re-activate my CT intrastate-only DOT number?

Please call 860-263-5163.

How do I re-activate my existing interstate DOT number?

You must update your information on the federal website.

If you have any questions on activating your interstate number, call 1-800-832-5660.

Please allow 7-10 days after you submit the above documents for reactivation of your DOT Number.

How often do I need to send in insurance for my DOT number?

Proof of insurance (insurance card) must be sent to the Department of Motor Vehicles, Insurance Compliance Unit once every year. This can be emailed to dmv.commercialaudit@ct.gov

How do I get a PIN number for updating my DOT number?

To request a PIN number, please visit the PIN site.

Get or update a DOT number