FMCSA
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the U.S. government agency that regulates commercial motor vehicles. It oversees driver licensing, vehicle safety standards, Hours of Service rules, and carrier authority.
In Depth
FMCSA issues Operating Authority (MC numbers) to carriers, maintains the SAFER database of carrier safety records, conducts roadside inspections, and enforces HOS compliance.
Every commercial carrier needs a USDOT number from FMCSA. Carriers operating for hire in interstate commerce also need an MC (Motor Carrier) number.
Usage Example
Example: 'I registered with FMCSA to get my DOT and MC numbers before hauling my first load under my own authority.'
Related Calculators
Related Terms
MC Number
An MC (Motor Carrier) number is an operating authority number issued by FMCSA that allows a carrier to transport regulated commodities for hire in interstate commerce. Required in addition to a DOT number for for-hire carriers.
DOT Number
A USDOT number is a unique identifier issued by the FMCSA to commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. It is used to track a carrier's safety information, inspections, crashes, and audits.
Hours of Service (HOS)
Hours of Service (HOS) are FMCSA regulations that limit how long commercial drivers can drive and be on duty to prevent fatigued driving. Key limits: 11 hours driving, 14-hour on-duty window, 30-minute break after 8 hours, 60/70-hour cycle.
ELD (Electronic Logging Device)
An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is a device connected to a commercial vehicle's engine that automatically records driving time and Hours of Service data, replacing paper logbooks. ELDs became mandatory for most interstate commercial carriers in December 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does FMCSA regulate?
FMCSA regulates driver qualifications, vehicle safety, HOS rules, carrier authority, and hazardous materials transport.