Enforcement of the 2021 Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program begins January 1, 2021. Carriers subject to UCR should have registered by December 31, 2020. If you haven't already registered, don't delay in getting your registration fee submitted. 

Who must register for UCR?

All interstate carriers operating under the following categories are subject to UCR:

• Property carriers (both for-hire and private)
• For-hire passenger carriers 
• Freight forwarders
• Brokers
• Leasing companies that lease vehicles (but not drivers) to interstate carriers or freight forwarders

Carriers based in Canada or Mexico with trucks operating in the United States are also required to register under UCR.

Enforcement of UCR

Verification of UCR fee payment can be done in several ways. State agencies that find a carrier hasn't paid its UCR fees could deny vehicle registration under programs such as International Registration Plan (IRP) until fees are paid. Random state audits or roadside traffic stops by law enforcement may also find that a carrier hasn't registered. Registration fees — as well as potential penalties  — would be required of the carrier to continue operating.