Do you have a revoked MC number? Reactivating your number is a multi-step process that comes with a fee. The steps you have to take will depend on why the number was deactivated in the first place.
Let’s take a look at how to reactivate an MC number, how much it costs and how to check your MC status.
How to Check MC Status
Before starting the process of reactivating your MC number, it’s important to check your status. The quickest and simplest way to find your status is to check your Company Snapshot page on SAFER.
You can search for your Snapshot page using your:
- Name
- DOT number
- MC/MX number
On your Snapshot page, you will see a table with information about your company’s name, carrier type and more. Under the Operating Status section, you can find your status. If inactive, it will state the reason for being inactive, such as “Biennial update of MCS-150 data not completed.”
If your status is inactive, you may be able to take steps to reactivate your number.
If you have questions about your status, you can call FMCSA at 800-832-5660.
How Much Does It Cost to Reactivate a DOT Number?
Reactivating a DOT number comes at a price. The fee for requesting a reinstatement is $80.
In most cases, authority will be reinstated within a week of receiving valid payment and your application.
If you’re a passenger carrier and were put Out of Service because you were deemed an “imminent hazard,” then you can’t request a reactivation. You will need to re-apply for your authority using form OP-1(P) and paying a $300 fee.
How To Reactivate DOT Number
Reactivating your DOT number will require you to follow a few steps. The first step is to correct the issue that made your number inactive in the first place. You can typically find this information on your Company Snapshot page on SAFER.
One of the most common reasons for an inactive DOT number is failure to complete the biennial update of MCS-150 data. In this case, the first step would be to fill out, sign and submit a new MCS-150 form to reactivate your number.
If your MC number has been revoked, you will need to do the following to reinstate your number:
- Submit proof of insurance using Form BOC-3 to FMCSA.
- Make sure that your DOT number is active and contains the most up-to-date information. You may need to submit form MCS-150 with your request for reinstatement.
The simplest way to request reinstatement is to submit your request online here. You’ll need your USDOT PIN for this step.
You also have the option of submitting form MCSA-5889 online, by fax or by mail.
Again, you’ll need to make sure that you meet the FMCSA’s insurance requirements before requesting reinstatement.
You will be notified if your application is:
- On hold
- Vetting under review
- Pending additional information
It’s important to make sure that you submit your insurance information if it’s not already on file. Otherwise, this will delay the processing of your request.
New Entrant Revoked
If your new entrant registration was revoked because of failure to submit a safety audit, then you will need to:
- Submit a new MCS-150 form, checking the box “Reapplication (after revocation of new entrant).”
- Start the 18-month monitoring cycle all over again.
- Submit a safety audit.
Imminent Hazard
If you were deemed an “imminent hazard,” then you will need to take additional steps to reinstate your DOT number.
The first step is to determine the cause of the noncompliance.
Next, you will need to:
- Develop a Safety Management Plan of action that addresses your areas of noncompliance, steps that will be taken to overcome noncompliance, and a 12 timetable for taking these steps.
- Execute the plan and provide certification by all officers and owners.
Following these steps will not automatically reinstate your DOT number. You will still need to reapply to have your number reinstated.
What Happens if You Operate Without Authority?
Operating without authority can lead to thousands of dollars in civil penalties. Motor carriers that operate without a valid USDOT can be held liable for penalties of up to $25,000 for every violation.
It’s not worth the risk to operate without authority. Taking steps to reactivate your number will allow you to return to active status and continue operating.
Reactivating a revoked MC number is a relatively straightforward process that only requires a small fee. Ensuring you are in compliance and filing your biennial update of MCS-150 data can help prevent revocation of your number.
