If you’re a fleet operator in the US planning to apply for a USDOT number or re-register your business in 2025, the FMCSA registration process has a major update you can’t ignore: a new identity verification requirement in the Unified Registration System.
This change is designed to stop fraud, strengthen digital security, and improve the safety of the entire transportation system — which is great news for all involved. Here is what it means and how to stay compliant with the new DOT number requirements.
What is a USDOT number?
For those of you starting a new commercial motor vehicle business this year – this might be a good place to start. A USDOT number is a unique identifier issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to track a company’s safety records, compliance status, and operational data. It’s legally required for businesses that operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce or transport hazardous materials.
The USDOT number is tied to everything from inspections to crash reports — making it essential for both compliance and operational visibility.
The obvious next question – how do I get a USDOT number?
And the answer — you’ll need to apply through the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS) — the platform used for your USDOT number application and to gain FMCSA operating authority. Here’s what the updated FMCSA registration 2025 process looks like:
- Start your registration application in URS.
- You’ll be prompted to verify your identity via a secure, third-party system.
- Use a smartphone or tablet to scan a QR code, upload a valid government-issued ID, and take a selfie to complete the proofing process.
- Return to URS to finish your application.
You must also log in via a Login.gov FMCSA account — multi-factor authentication is now required for all FMCSA systems, including the FMCSA portal, URS, and Safety & Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) system, where operator information is reviewed.
Why did FMCSA introduce identity verification?
It’s all about safety and security. FMCSA introduced identity proofing to:
- Reduce fraudulent applications
- Protect personal and company data
- Prevent fake or duplicate carrier registrations
- Strengthen oversight of who’s operating commercial vehicles.
They partnered with IDEMIA, a trusted provider of secure identity services, to help ensure that only legitimate individuals and businesses can register for commercial motor vehicle operations. This new FMCSA identity verification process helps prevent fake applications, impersonations, and unauthorized access to the system. In short, it keeps the roads — and the registration system — safer for everyone.
Who needs to complete FMCSA identity verification?
Identity verification is now mandatory for:
- Anyone applying for a new USDOT number
- Applicants requesting a USDOT number with operating authority
- Carriers reapplying after a revocation
- Users making certain changes or reinstatements online
If you’re an existing carrier making routine updates (like filing your biennial MCS-150), you’ll still need a Login.gov FMCSA account — but identity verification may not be required unless prompted.
Want to see the full process or need help setting up your account? FMCSA has published step-by-step guides at fmcsa.dot.gov.
What is the FMCSA identity verification process?
Here’s how it works step-by-step. You start your registration on the FMCSA Unified Registration System (URS). You’ll then be redirected to complete identity proofing with IDEMIA. You’ll be asked to submit personal identifying information and may need to upload documents, like a driver’s license or passport.
Once verified, you return to URS to complete your registration. The process is designed to be quick and secure, and most users complete it in just a few minutes.
FMCSA now requires Login.gov for all users
In addition to identity verification, FMCSA is also moving toward multi-factor authentication across all systems. That means you must use a Login.gov FMCSA account to access FMCSA systems like the FMCSA portal, Unified Registration System (URS), and Safety & Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER).
Each FMCSA portal user type, such as company employee, BOC-3 filer, or insurance agent, must have a unique Login.gov FMCSA account — no sharing between roles. If you already have a Login.gov FMCSA account, just make sure the email matches your FMCSA portal account.
Why is FMCSA identity verification important for the industry?
This isn’t just another hoop to jump through. Here’s why it matters. It stops fraud. Scammers can no longer create fake companies to game the system. It protects your business — nobody can pretend to be you and register a company using your name. It improves safety oversight because FMCSA can better track and regulate real operators on U.S. roads. And it keeps records accurate, which means better decisions across the industry.
What happens if you don’t verify your identity?
Simple: your application won’t be processed. You cannot receive a USDOT number or operating authority without completing identity proofing. Failing to verify your identity will delay — or completely block — your ability to legally operate your business.
Online FMCSA registration updates are back
Alongside the new identity verification steps, FMCSA also reopened online updates as of January 20, 2025. Whether you’re filing a biennial MCS-150 update, changing your address, or reinstating operating authority, these actions now require secure access via Login.gov FMCSA.
Get verified and stay compliant
At CameraMatics, we know how much is at stake when it comes to compliance — and how challenging it can be to keep up with evolving FMCSA requirements. This new identity verification process may seem like an extra step, but it’s there to protect your business, your drivers, and everyone on the road.
Make sure it’s part of your checklist when registering or updating your USDOT credentials in 2025. And if you need help navigating the FMCSA registration 2025 process or how to get a USDOT number, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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