How do I know if I need a Department of Transportation (DOT) number?
The vehicle you are using to haul your trailer may require a USDOT number if it meets the following requirements:
- Truck and trailer are considered commercial vehicles. This means if you use your truck and trailer for business or “furtherance of commercial enterprise,” you are a considered a commercial vehicle.
- The GVWR is over 10,000 pounds.
- Travel is regular into other states Again, your respective state may have regulations in place where you are required to obtain a state DOT if your truck and trailer are considered commercial vehicles.