FMCSA Launches Motus: A Modernized Registration System for Motor Carriers 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has rolled out the first phase of Motus, a new USDOT registration system designed to streamline compliance and modernize the way motor carriers, brokers, and supporting companies manage their regulatory obligations. 

Motus represents a significant shift from the current patchwork of portals, consolidating USDOT numbers, biennial updates, hazmat registrations, and other filings into one secure, user‑friendly platform. The initiative aims to simplify processes, enhance fraud prevention, and provide registrants with intuitive tools such as auto‑population, real‑time data validation, and mobile accessibility. 

Registering for Motus

Every motor carrier must register with Motus. To prepare for the transition, FMCSA had asked companies to complete these Portal steps by May 14, 2026:  

1. Ensure the FMCSA Portal account is active because inactive accounts can be disabled after prolonged nonuse. 

1. Confirm the correct Portal Company Official is listed. FMCSA has indicated that this role, using the same Login.gov email, will be required to claim the company account in Motus. 

1. Review and update company information through the Portal by submitting a biennial update, so Motus can populate the new account with accurate data. 

Carriers who completed these steps should be set up in Motus. Carriers who did not complete these steps, or have run into another issue, will need to contact FMCSA at 800-832-5660 to get their Motus account set up.  FMCSA will only work directly with the motor carrier at this point. 

Once the carrier has set up their portal through Motus, they can grant other users’ permissions to access their account.

The impact of Motus

Motus will change how companies apply for authority or manage their USDOT number. Over time, it will streamline these processes. Motus is designed to replace multiple legacy systems with a single dashboard where carriers can apply for authority, update company details, and manage registration status.

However, at the initial launch, many current requirements will remain the same. For example, there are no expected immediate changes to safety registration, MC numbers, or the BOC-3 filing process. 

Motus will also be more secure, as users will need to complete a more robust verification process, including uploading identification and completing a facial scan using a mobile device. While this may sound unfamiliar, the intent is to reduce fraud and ensure only authorized individuals can access or update company records.

Moving forward

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) recently announced it is planning to move the hazmat registration process into Motus this summer. PHMSA is monitoring the current situation with Motus launch.  

In response to industry feedback, FMCSA confirmed that Motus will not initially introduce safety registration, eliminate docket numbers (MC/FF/MX), or alter BOC‑3 filing processes. These proposals remain under consideration and will be subject to public comment.  

FMCSA emphasized that stakeholder engagement will remain central throughout the Motus rollout. The agency plans to host informational webinars, industry roundtables, and training sessions to ensure registrants understand the new system and can provide feedback on its usability.  

Motus is a step toward a safer, more efficient future for the transportation industry. By consolidating forms, improving verification, and reducing fraud, FMCSA is ensuring that carriers and support companies can navigate compliance with confidence. 

Contact J. J. Keller with questions or help with Motus 888-601-2017.