In email messaging to industry this week the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has provided updates on it plans for its new registration system called Motus.
The goal of the new system is to “simplify the registration process, streamline identification, improve the user experience, and incorporate enhanced verification tools”. In addition to streamlining certain functions, one of the primary goals of the new system is to combat fraud and enhance identity verification. A fact sheet, which can be viewed here, is available which outlines the “changes coming with the new system”.
Industry members who subscribe to FMCSA email updates will have received via an email January 21, 2025 with the subject line “FMCSA Registration Action: Access the FMCSA Portal”.
The email content as received pertaining to trucking companies is displayed below along with Help Options (direct copy from FMCSA material)
Registration Modernization Update
Attention: If you have a USDOT Number and/or Operating Authority (MC, MX, FF Docket Number), please complete the actions below to prepare for the launch of Motus: USDOT Registration System.
In 2026, FMCSA will introduce Motus—the single, secure, and mobile-friendly online dashboard for registration actions—to all users. To facilitate the transition into the new system, motor carriers and other registered entities should ensure their FMCSA Portal account is active, the correct Company Official is listed, and business information is updated.
Take action now to prepare for the launch of Motus: USDOT Registration System.
1. Ensure FMCSA Portal account is active.
Log in to your Portal account to confirm it is active. If you don’t have an account, create one now. This critical action will allow you to quickly and easily claim your existing USDOT Number and create your company account in Motus when it launches to all users later this year.
2. Verify Portal account user list.
View and confirm users with access to your FMCSA Portal account in the “Account Management” tab. Ensure that the listed Company Official is the company owner or employee responsible for managing/updating FMCSA registration. This should not be a transportation service provider or outside consultant.
The Login.gov email for the Company Official in the FMCSA Portal must match the Login.gov email used to log into Motus to link your USDOT Number with your new Motus account.
3. Update company information.
For a smooth transition into Motus, easily submit an online Biennial Update (MCS-150) in the Portal “Registration” tab to ensure that the most up-to-date information is on file for your business.
Need help?
Explore our FMCSA Portal Registration User Guide for more user-specific information and guidance:
- Am I a Company Official or Associate of a Company?
- How do I create a Portal account?
- How do I manage users in the Portal?
- How can I submit a Biennial Update in the Portal?
For members who have some questions or need additional support, FMCSA has published some frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the new registration system and its functionalities. These FAQs outline why FMCSA is modernizing the system and what functionalities can be expected. These FAQs can be viewed here. Additional FAQs are also available to address questions on Account Creation, Identity Verification, and Business Verification and can be viewed here.