Key facts
| What Motus is | FMCSA's USDOT registration system, live since May 2026 |
|---|---|
| Where to sign in | motus.dot.gov, using a Login.gov account |
| First login | One-time identity verification with an acceptable ID |
| Your USDOT number | Stays the same (FMCSA) |
| Your MC number | Not replaced by a USDOT number (FMCSA) |
| What it replaced | URS, plus registration in L&I and the FMCSA Portal (May 14, 2026) |
| SAFER | Still online; its data only froze during the May 14-18, 2026 switch |
| Help | FMCSA Contact Center 1-800-832-5660; chat in Motus 8 AM-8 PM ET |
Step by step
Use the Company Official's email
Sign in to Login.gov with the same email that is the Company Official in the FMCSA Portal. A different email won't see your USDOT number.
Sign in and verify your identity
Go to motus.dot.gov, sign in with Login.gov, set up your user profile and finish identity verification. You only do this the first time.
Link your USDOT number
When the pop-up appears, choose "Link USDOT Number", select your number and click Continue.
Enter the verification code
FMCSA emails a code to your Login.gov address. Enter it in the "Verify Your Identity" window and submit.
Sign the first certification
Confirm you are the owner, a partner or an authorized officer, type your name as the e-signature and accept.
Review and certify
Check every business detail, fix anything outdated, then click Certify in the orange banner and accept to finish the claim.
Checklist
- Login.gov account with the Company Official's email
- An acceptable form of ID ready for identity verification
- Access to that email inbox for the verification code
- USDOT number claimed and showing in your company account
- Address, phone, email and fleet details reviewed
- Final certification accepted
FAQ
Does my USDOT number change in Motus?
No. FMCSA says existing registrants keep their current USDOT number, and existing MC numbers will not be replaced by USDOT numbers.
Is SAFER shutting down?
Not according to FMCSA's transition notice. URS and the registration functions of L&I and the FMCSA Portal were retired on May 14, 2026. SAFER's data froze during the transition and updates from Motus after launch.
My USDOT number doesn't show up when I log in. What now?
Make sure you signed in with the exact email that is the Company Official in the FMCSA Portal. If it still doesn't appear, use Contact FMCSA in Motus or motus.dot.gov/contact-fmcsa.
What if I can't pass identity verification?
Call the FMCSA Contact Center at 1-800-832-5660. FMCSA says you may be referred to a location where you can verify in person.
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Official sources
- FMCSA: Move into Motus
- FMCSA: How to Claim Your USDOT Number in Motus (PDF)
- FMCSA: Registration Modernization FAQs
- FMCSA: Transition to Motus notice, May 2026 (PDF)
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm your exact situation with the agency linked above.