IMPORTANT: If you already have a USDOT Number, DO NOT start a new registration!
As existing motor carriers transition to FMCSA’s new MOTUS system, some are experiencing problems linking their existing USDOT Numbers to their accounts.
After creating a MOTUS account, carriers should be able to select “Link USDOT Number” to connect their existing company information.
However, some users are finding this button grayed out, with a message indicating that no unclaimed USDOT Numbers are associated with their account.
What Should You NOT Do?
If you already have a USDOT Number and cannot link it to MOTUS:
- DO NOT select “New Registration.” You already have a USDOT Number and should not create another registration to bypass the issue.
- DO NOT select “Register as a Supporting Company.” This option is intended for businesses such as BOC-3 filers, insurance companies, and other service providers — not motor carriers attempting to link an existing USDOT Number.
Neither option resolves the underlying account-linking problem.
How Do You Fix the Problem?
If your USDOT Number isn’t appearing in MOTUS, contact FMCSA and submit a support ticket.
Be prepared to provide:
- Your existing USDOT Number.
- The name of the Company Official.
- The Company Official’s Login.gov email address.
- Proof of company ownership, such as an IRS letter or Articles of Incorporation/Organization.
Important: FMCSA advises existing carriers to use the same Login.gov email address previously associated with the Company Official in the FMCSA Portal.
Keep your FMCSA support ticket number for future follow-up.
What If You Already Registered as a Supporting Company?
If you accidentally created a Transportation Service Provider (TSP) account, FMCSA guidance indicates that the account may need to be closed before you can claim your existing USDOT Number.
If the linking option remains unavailable, submit a support ticket for assistance.
The Bottom Line
A grayed-out “Link USDOT Number” button does not mean you need a new USDOT Number.
Don’t create another registration or select an incorrect account type just to get around the problem.
Contact FMCSA, provide the required information, and have the account-linking issue reviewed. For other common MOTUS issues, read FMCSA MOTUS Is Live — But Trucking Companies Are Experiencing Problems.