FMCSA to Eliminate MC Numbers by October 1, 2025: What Carriers Need to Know

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is simplifying its registration process by moving to a USDOT-number-only system. This change ends the use of MC (Motor Carrier) numbers. The transition began with the Unified Registration System (URS) rollout in November 2023 and will finish by October 1, 2025.

What Changes Are Coming with the Elimination of MC Numbers?

For many years, FMCSA assigned MC numbers to carriers with interstate operating authority. Meanwhile, USDOT numbers tracked safety and compliance. Under URS, FMCSA will retire MC numbers completely.

Key points to know:

• New applicants will no longer receive MC numbers

• Existing MC numbers will be phased out of FMCSA systems

• USDOT numbers will serve as the sole identifier for carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders

This update aims to reduce fraud, streamline registration, and enhance oversight across the transportation sector.

Why the Elimination of MC Numbers Matters to Carriers

All FMCSA-regulated companies using MC numbers will feel the impact. This change affects:

• Registration and renewal procedures

• Insurance and BOC-3 filings

• Broker-carrier identification

• Safety and compliance recordkeeping

If you still rely on your MC number for authority verification or documentation, start preparing to switch exclusively to your USDOT number.

Steps Carriers Must Take Before October 1, 2025

1. Verify and Update Your USDOT Number

Your USDOT number will become the primary identifier FMCSA uses to track your authority and compliance. Ensure that:

• Your USDOT number is active and accurate

• Your MCS-150 form is current

When and Why to Update Your MCS-150

The MCS-150 is the Motor Carrier Identification Report. It must be updated every 24 months, even if your company details have not changed.

How to know when to file:

• The second-to-last digit of your USDOT number sets your filing month

• The last digit indicates if you file in odd or even years

For example, if your DOT number ends in 34, you file in April of even-numbered years (next due April 2026). Missing this deadline may lead to deactivation of your USDOT number.

2. Update All Internal and External References

Replace MC numbers with your USDOT number in:

• Fleet and safety documentation

• Insurance filings

• Dispatch and compliance systems

• Contracts and broker agreements

• Public directories and email signatures

3. Notify Your Business Partners and Brokers

Many brokers, shippers, and insurers still use MC numbers. Inform them proactively that your USDOT number will soon be the only federal identifier for your operations.

How VLC Can Help With the Transition

Vehicle Licensing Consultants (VLC) has supported fleets with DOT compliance, IFTA, IRP, apportioned plates, and authority filings for over 25 years. We help make regulatory changes easier by assisting you with:

• Filing and updating your MCS-150

• Navigating the Unified Registration System

• Auditing your documents and systems for MC number references

• Meeting FMCSA deadlines

• Using tools like GWConnect® and DQM Connect® to stay ahead

Final Thoughts on the MC Number Elimination

Removing MC numbers marks a big change, but it promotes cleaner, safer, and more transparent compliance. The full transition will happen by October 1, 2025. Now is the time to act.

Need help reviewing your records or filing your MCS-150? Contact VLC today or visit im4trux.com for expert guidance and peace of mind.