FMCSA to Retire MC Numbers: What It Means for Your Business
If you have been in the trucking industry for any amount of time, you’ve likely used your MC number as part of your operating identity. but thats about to change. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced that MC numbers will be officially phased out by October 1st, 2025. Moving forward, all authority identifiers will be consolidated under the USDOT number as part of the agency’s broader Unified Registration System (URS) modernization.
The shift has sparked a lot of confusion online - some are syaing MC numbers are already obsolete while others are unsure whether they will need to apply for one. Lets clear that up.
Whats actually changing?
The FMCSA’s goal is to streamline the registration process by eliminating the need for multiple authority numbers. Currently carriers operating for-hire in interstate commerce are issued both a USDOT number and an MC number. Under the updated system, only the USDOT number will be used to identify carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders. This transition is part of the ongoing rollout of the Unified Registration System, which has been in development for several years.
As of now, MC numbers are still in use, but after October 1st, no new MC numbers will be issued. Existing MC numbers may still appear in legacy databases, but they will no longer be required to operating authority. The USDOT number will serve as your sole federal identifier with the FMCSA.
What you need to do now
If you are already operating under both numbers, this change wont affect your authority status - but it does mean you need to start updating your materials and processes. Here are a few action steps you can take now:
Begin removing the MC number from load confirmations, rate sheets, contracts, and other documentation.
Update your signage and branding to reflect only the USDOT number.
Notify brokers, shippers and factoring companies that your USDOT number will be your official identifier moving forward.
Log in to your FMCSA portal and ensure all company information is accurate and up to date.
What if you’re starting a new trucking company?
If you are in the process of applying for authority you still need to apply for an MC number through the current system - for now. The FMCSA has not yet announced the exact date when new applications will shift exclusively to the URS format. Until the system is fully live, you must follow the existing steps: register for a USDOT number, file a BOC-3, obtain insurance, and request your MC number.
How 818 Freight Solutions can help
As the FMCSA tolls out these changes, keeping your business records compliant and up to date is more important than ever. We help carriers navigate regulatory updates, stay organized and avoid costly mistakes during transitions like this. From business formation to compliance file management, we’ll make sure you’re ready for whatever the road brings next.
If you’re not sure where to begin - or want help reviewing your operating authority documents - reach out any time. We’re here to keep your back office as smooth as your highway miles.
