Show All Answers

1. What is a Commercial Motor Vehicle?

Any self-propelled or towed motor vehicle used on a highway in interstate commerce to transport passengers or property when the vehicle:

• Has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight, of 10,001 pounds or more, whichever is greater
• Is designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, and is not used to transport passengers for compensation
• Is designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation
• Is used in transporting material found by the Secretary of Transportation to be hazardous and transported in a quantity requiring placarding

2. How do I apply for a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number?

To obtain your U.S. DOT number instantly, file online. You can also request an application (MCS-150 and MCS-150a) by calling the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 800-832-5660, or by calling the FMCSA office in your respective state:

• Iowa: 515-233-7400
• Nebraska: 402-437-5986