Previously published in Large Car magazine
FMCSA's new MOTUS registration system requires users to sign in through Login.gov, verify their identity, and connect their USDOT number. The transition may take time, particularly when information from the previous system does not appear correctly.
The following tips can help you prepare and avoid unnecessary delays.
1. Be Patient
FMCSA is currently processing a large volume of requests, so account and data issues may not be resolved quickly. Some cases may take several weeks or longer.
Submitting duplicate requests or repeatedly contacting FMCSA may not speed up the process. Keep copies of your submission, supporting documents, and ticket information.
2. Start the Process Now
Do not wait until you have an urgent filing or registration deadline. Go to the official MOTUS websiteand sign in using your Login.gov email address and password. MOTUS redirects users to Login.gov for authentication.
Complete the required identity-verification steps. Based on our experience, the process often works best on an iPhone, although results may vary by device. Before beginning, make sure you can access the email address and phone associated with your Login.gov account.
3. Access Your MOTUS Account
After successfully completing identity verification, return to MOTUS and sign in. You should then be able to access your account and continue the registration process.
FMCSA requires existing registrants to complete identity and business verification to help protect the integrity of registration records.
4. Link Your USDOT Number
Once you are inside MOTUS, look for the option to link or claim your existing USDOT number.
If that option is unavailable or you cannot select the button, your previous information may not have transferred or matched correctly in the new system. In that case, you may need FMCSA's assistance to claim the USDOT number and connect it to your account.
5. Submit a Request to FMCSA
Use FMCSA's official support system to submit a request:
Submit an AskFMCSA ticket.
In your request, clearly explain that you completed identity verification but cannot link or claim your existing USDOT number. Include:
- Your USDOT number.
- The email address associated with the user account.
- A clear description of the problem.
- Your contact information.
- Any requested supporting documents.
For help with Login.gov or FMCSA account access, motor carriers and company users may also call 1-800-832-5660.
6. Gather Your Supporting Documents
FMCSA may request documents to confirm your identity and authority to act for the business. Be prepared to provide clear, readable copies of relevant documents, such as:
- A current driver's license or other requested identification.
- Business formation documents, such as articles of incorporation or articles of organization.
- An IRS EIN confirmation or verification document.
- Any additional records FMCSA specifically requests.
Only submit documents through an official government channel. Because these records contain sensitive personal and business information, do not send them to an unverified email address or third party.
7. Replace a Missing EIN Confirmation
If you do not have your original IRS EIN confirmation document, the IRS may be able to provide another form of EIN verification. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to obtain a digital CP 575 through an eligible IRS Business Tax Account or request an entity transcript.
You can contact the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 for assistance. Ask which EIN verification document is appropriate for FMCSA's requirements rather than assuming the IRS will reproduce the original notice.
8. Monitor Your Request
FMCSA updates and data synchronization may take weeks. After submitting your request:
- Save the confirmation and ticket number.
- Keep copies of every document submitted.
- Monitor the email address associated with your account.
- Check spam or junk folders for responses.
- Follow up through the same ticket when appropriate instead of creating unnecessary duplicate cases.
Final Reminder
The best approach is to begin early, prepare your documents, and allow plenty of time. Do not wait until an upcoming renewal, filing, or business transaction makes the matter urgent. Processing timelines can vary, and no specific completion date is guaranteed.
