Number Now Required for Intrastate Commerce

Rule Previously Applied Only to Trucking Firms Engaged in Interstate Commerce

PSP News Release

Harrisburg – Pennsylvania motor carriers engaged in intrastate commerce must obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation number and display it and their business name on both sides of their vehicles, Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Frank E. Pawlowski said today.

“Previously, this requirement applied only to motor carriers operating in interstate commerce,” Pawlowski said. “A new rule enacted earlier this year provides for a uniform numbering system, which will be used to identify unsafe carriers with serious safety violations discovered during roadside inspections or following truck crashes.”

Once identified, unsafe motor carriers will be notified of their deficiencies and may undergo a review of their operations aimed at bringing them into compliance with laws and regulations.

“The goal of this new requirement is to improve motor carrier and driver safety,” Pawlowski said.

Carriers can obtain a USDOT number by visiting www.fmcsa.dot.gov and completing the registration process under the heading “Registration and Licensing.”  There is no cost for obtaining a USDOT number.

Carriers with questions can contact the State Police Commercial Vehicle Safety Section at 717-346-7347.

For more information, visit www.psp.state.pa.us or call 717-783-5556.