03/14/2026
🚨 Important FMCSA / DOT Reminder for All Carriers & Owner Operators 🚨
Please be aware of the latest enforcement guidance from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regarding USDOT Numbers and Operating Authority (MC Numbers).
❗ DO NOT buy, sell, rent, or lease a USDOT Number or MC Number from someone online or from an unknown party. These numbers cannot legally be transferred outside of a legitimate corporate transaction.
If the FMCSA discovers that a USDOT or MC Number has been improperly sold, leased, or used by someone other than the legal entity it was issued to, they can:
• Inactivate the USDOT Number
• Revoke operating authority (MC Number)
• Cancel safety registrations
• Take enforcement action under federal law
📌 Important to understand:
🔹 USDOT Numbers are permanent identifiers — similar to a driver's license number. They belong to the original legal owner forever and cannot simply be transferred to someone else.
🔹 Sole Proprietors:
If a business is registered as a sole proprietor (for example: John Doe d/b/a Doe Trucking), the USDOT Number belongs only to that individual person. If the business is sold, the buyer must apply for their own USDOT Number and possibly their own operating authority.
🔹 Corporations or LLCs:
If the company itself is a legal entity (for example: Doe Trucking, Inc. or an LLC), the USDOT Number may stay with the company if the company is sold or ownership changes. However, FMCSA records must be updated immediately to reflect ownership changes. If the company dissolves and operations continue under a new entity, a new USDOT Number is required.
🔹 Operating Authority (MC Number):
Operating authority is generally not transferable unless it is part of a legitimate business transaction that meets FMCSA requirements. In some cases, a new authority must be obtained.
⚠️ Failure to follow these rules can result in:
• Immediate USDOT Number inactivation
• Revocation of MC Authority
• Loss of operating privileges
At All American Permits, we strongly encourage carriers to stay compliant and avoid offers online claiming to sell or lease DOT or MC Numbers. These situations often lead to serious compliance issues.
✅ If you have questions about starting a new authority, transferring ownership correctly, or staying FMCSA compliant, feel free to reach out to us.
Stay safe, stay compliant, and protect your business!