DOT Number Reactivation: What to Do if Your Authority is Revoked

Has your DOT number expired or been marked inactive? Whether it’s due to missed filings or a compliance issue, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Thousands of carriers go through the reinstatement process each year. With the right guidance, getting back into Federal Motor Carrier Association (FMCSA) compliance is straightforward and faster than most expect.

This guide explains how to restore your trucking authority, what causes DOT number suspension, and how to avoid repeating the same issues down the road.

Why DOT Numbers Get Deactivated

Most DOT number suspensions come down to compliance lapses or paperwork problems. Here’s what typically causes it.

Common Compliance Failures

The FMCSA may suspend or revoke your DOT number if you:

• Fail to Enroll in a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program: Enrollment is required for all CDL drivers operating under DOT authority.
• Ignore Mandatory Inspection and Maintenance Requirements: Failure to maintain vehicle safety standards can lead to out-of-service orders and violations.
• Miss Hours of Service (HOS) Logging Compliance: Improper logging or falsification of records is a frequent audit failure and results in penalties.‍
• Fail Your New Entrant Safety Audit: This initial FMCSA audit ensures new carriers understand and follow federal safety rules.

Each of these creates risk to the public and your business. If unresolved, they trigger an automatic authority suspension.

Administrative Filing Oversights

Some deactivations happen due to simple mistakes:

• Missing Your Biennial MCS-150 Update: Failing to update your MCS-150 can result in automatic deactivation of your USDOT number.
• Letting Your Insurance Coverage Lapse: The FMCSA will deactivate your authority if required insurance filings are not maintained.
• Forgetting to Refile Your BOC-3 (Designation of Process Agents): The BOC-3 is required for all for-hire carriers and must be kept current in FMCSA records.
• Failing To Respond To FMCSA Notifications or Audit Requests: Ignoring compliance inquiries can quickly lead to suspension or revocation.

These oversights are common and completely preventable with the right systems in place.

Steps to Reactivate a DOT Number

To begin the authority suspension recovery process, you’ll need to address filings, insurance, and legal representation records.

MCS-150 and BOC-3 Updates

Start by updating these two foundational forms:

• ‍Update Your MCS-150 Form: This updates your company’s registration info (mileage, operations, contact). It’s required every two years, or whenever your details change.‍
• Refile Your BOC-3 Form: This ensures the FMCSA knows who your legal process agents are in each state. You’ll need this on file to proceed.

Insurance Verification and Resubmission

FMCSA won't reinstate your DOT or MC number until your insurance is refiled and verified:

• ‍Confirm Your Policy Meets Minimum Coverage Requirements: The FMCSA requires specific liability levels based on your operation type and cargo classification.
• Have Your Insurer Resubmit Proof Directly to the FMCSA (Forms MCS-90 and Others): Only your insurer can submit these filings. Self-submissions are not accepted.
• Make Sure the Insurer is FMCSA-Approved: Insurance providers must be registered with the FMCSA to file on your behalf.

Timeline and Fees for Reactivation

Getting back into compliance is doable, but not instant. Here’s what to plan for.

What to Expect from the FMCSA

After your submissions (MCS-150, BOC-3, insurance) are complete:

• DOT-Only Reactivations Typically Take a Few Business Days: These are usually faster if your information is accurate and up to date.
  
• Reinstating an MC Number Can Take Longer: This is especially true if your authority has been inactive for months or years.‍
• FMCSA May Require a New Entrant Safety Audit: If your authority has been inactive long enough, you may need to pass another audit to ensure compliance.

Processing times vary depending on FMCSA workload, your state, and how complete your submissions are.

Reinstatement Costs and Delays

Expect these possible costs:

• $80 Reinstatement Fee for MC Number Reactivation (Payable to FMCSA): This is a standard federal fee required to process your reinstatement request.
• Insurance Down Payments (If Policy Lapsed): New or reinstated insurance policies often require an upfront payment before coverage is active.
• Filing Assistance (If Using a Service Provider): Third-party providers may charge a fee to prepare and submit your reinstatement paperwork.

How to Avoid Losing Your DOT Number Again

Once your authority is reinstated, maintaining its active status relies on consistent monitoring and automated processes.

Set Up Ongoing Compliance Monitoring

Staying compliant is easier when you have tools and experts watching key deadlines. Authority Express offers:

• Biennial MCS-150 Update Tracking: Get alerts before your update is due to avoid deactivation or penalties.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Management: Stay enrolled and up to date with all DOT-required testing and recordkeeping.
• Annual Vehicle Inspection Reminders: Receive timely notices to help ensure your fleet meets FMCSA safety standards.
• Real-Time Compliance Alerts: Monitor critical filings and deadlines across your DOT and MC requirements.

Automate Annual Renewal Tasks

With so many requirements tied to specific dates, automation is your best safeguard. The RoadOffice App by Authority Express helps you:

• Securely Store DOT Compliance Documents: Access key paperwork from anywhere and stay audit-ready year-round.
• Get Alerts for Filing and Renewal Deadlines: Avoid missed updates with automated notifications tied to FMCSA schedules.
• Keep Your DOT Number Active, Automatically: Let RoadOffice track and support your filings so you can focus on driving.

Get Help with Your DOT Number Reactivation

A revoked or expired DOT number doesn’t have to shut your business down for good. With the right filings, updated insurance, and compliance support, you can restore your trucking authority and get back on the road.

Authority Express has helped thousands of drivers and carriers navigate FMCSA reactivation steps without missing a beat. To get started, share a few details about your company.

Frequently Asked Questions About DOT Number Reactivation

What if my DOT number has been inactive for more than two years?

You may need to reapply for a new DOT number if your old one has been deactivated for too long. We can help evaluate your status.

Can I operate while my DOT number is inactive?

No. Operating a commercial vehicle with an inactive DOT or MC number can lead to fines and impoundment.

What if I failed my New Entrant Safety Audit?

You may be allowed to correct violations and request a follow-up review. We offer prep services and mock audits to help.

How long does reinstatement take?

It varies, anywhere from a few business days to several weeks, depending on your specific situation.