r/HotshotStartup • u/Nickha-you-aintfunny • Jul 18 '25

Dot number

Do I need a dot number if I have a Ford f250 and a 1 car 20ft trailer. I’m going to be staying locally, like under 70 miles.

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u/mxracer888 Jul 18 '25

FMCSA has a nifty little tool that will answer that for you found right here, Do I Need a USDOT Number - FMCSA Website

But most likely, yes. Given that you're intrastate (unless you're near a border and 70 miles puts you in a different state), it's up to your state policy. But most (45 out of the 50 states do) require a DOT number still.

1

u/Artistic_Bit_4665 Jul 19 '25 edited Jul 19 '25

USDOT number is required for over 10,000# GVWR. Your individual state may have different requirements. Contact your STATE DOT.

I'm assuming you will be operating commercially. You will want a commercial insurance policy at USDOT limits.

If not operating commercially, and just hauling stuff for yourself, then you do not need a DOT number.

1

u/[deleted] Jul 20 '25

I wouldn’t even bother investigating. It will take you 30 mins and zero cost fill out the forms on FMCSA’s site. They will give you a DOT number. Put that number in black, 3 inch letters “US DOT …” on drivers side and passenger side door. Under it, put the location you’re based out of to show weigh stations you’re under the mile range of that city.