5 Essential Steps to Stay DOT Compliant After Buying a Truck
- Paula Rojas
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
If you’ve just purchased a truck and are ready to hit the road, there are important steps you must take to comply with DOT (Department of Transportation) regulations. Failing to meet these requirements can result in fines, delays, or even losing your operating privileges. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Obtain Your DOT and MC Number
Before operating, you need to register with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) to obtain a DOT Number. If you plan to transport cargo across state lines, you’ll also need an MC Number (Motor Carrier Number).
DOT Number: Identifies your trucking company and is required for all commercial vehicles.
MC Number: Necessary if you operate as a for-hire carrier transporting regulated commodities.
How to Apply? Register online at the FMCSA website and pay the required fees.
2. Enroll in a DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing Program
DOT regulations require all commercial drivers to participate in a drug and alcohol testing program before they can begin operations.
Pre-employment drug testing is mandatory before driving.
Owner-operators must be enrolled in a random testing consortium.
Regular testing is required to maintain compliance.
Failure to comply can result in immediate suspension!
3. Secure Proper Insurance Coverage
To operate legally, you must carry a minimum level of insurance coverage, which varies depending on the type of freight you transport.
The minimum liability insurance required by FMCSA is $750,000.
Most freight brokers and shippers require coverage of $1 million or more.
Additional policies like cargo insurance and physical damage coverage can protect your business.
4. Perform Regular Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance
DOT compliance requires all truck operators to conduct routine inspections and maintain accurate records.
Daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections must be recorded.
Annual DOT inspections are required to verify compliance.
Keep maintenance logs to track repairs and avoid costly fines.
5. Register with the DOT Clearinghouse
If you are an owner-operator or plan to hire drivers, you must register with the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse.
This system tracks drivers who have tested positive for drugs or alcohol.
Employers must query the database before hiring any new CDL driver.
Failure to register can result in federal penalties and affect your business.
Stay Compliant and Keep Your Business Running!
Following these five steps will help you operate legally and avoid unnecessary fines or delays. If you need assistance with DOT compliance, drug testing, or registration, we can help!
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