Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
UCR is a multi-state program that requires businesses involved in interstate commerce to register and pay an annual fee based on fleet size. It applies whether you're for-hire, private, or otherwise exempt from other FMCSA programs.
Start with your USDOT number
We'll confirm where you stand before anything else happens.
- We pull up your carrier record
- We show you what needs attention, in plain English
- Nothing gets filed or charged until you approve it
Don't have it handy? Talk to a specialist instead →
You don't have to use us. You can complete this yourself directly with the UCR Plan. Our fee is for preparing and filing it on your behalf.
Who typically needs this
- Motor carriers operating in interstate commerce, for-hire or private
- Freight forwarders and brokers
- Leasing companies that lease vehicles to interstate carriers
What DOT Compliance Partner handles
- Confirming whether UCR applies to your operation
- Determining your correct fleet-size bracket
- Filing your registration for the current UCR year
- Reminding you ahead of next year's renewal
What we'll need from you
- USDOT number
- Current power unit count
- Base state of operation
How it works
- 01
We confirm it applies to you
Not every business needs UCR — we check your operation first.
- 02
We file your registration
We submit it for the current UCR year at your correct fleet bracket.
- 03
We remind you next year
UCR renews annually — we'll reach out before your next deadline.
Deadlines & renewal
UCR generally renews annually, with a filing window that opens each fall for the following year. Specific dates are set by the UCR Plan and can shift year to year.
Common mistakes
- Registering in the wrong fleet-size bracket
- Assuming an agricultural or other exemption from other programs also exempts you from UCR
- Missing the annual renewal window
Frequently asked questions
Am I exempt from UCR if I have an agricultural exemption?+
An agricultural exemption from other FMCSA requirements doesn't automatically exempt you from UCR if you cross state lines. Exemptions vary — we'll confirm your specific situation.
How much does UCR cost?+
The UCR fee is set by the UCR Plan based on your fleet size. We'll show you the current government fee and our separate service fee before you pay anything.
What if my base state isn't part of UCR?+
You can generally still register through a participating state. We'll walk you through your options based on where you're based.
Related services
Ready to get started?
Enter your USDOT number or talk to our compliance team.
DOT Compliance Partner is a private third-party service provider and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Transportation, FMCSA, the UCR Plan, or any other government agency.