2026 Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) Registration Online
Register Now for 2026 UCR Registration & Renewal
Register now for your 2026 UCR registration. Since Oct 1, all interstate carriers must complete their UCR application or renewal online. If your company is in a non UCR state, filing needs to be done through a neighboring state to meet requirements.
Submit your 2026 UCR application early to stay compliant. Early filing helps your business avoid missed deadlines, penalties, and last-minute issues, while ensuring a smooth and hassle free registration process.
For any help, register online now or call us. Our compliance specialists are ready to guide you and answer your questions.
Call Us: (972) 402-5456
Understanding UCR Registration
UCR stands for “Unified Carrier Registration.” It is a federally mandated program that requires motor carriers and other businesses involved in interstate commerce to register their fleets and file annually.What risks do carriers face without UCR registration
Carriers who operate without UCR registration face serious risks that can directly impact their business. Roadside inspectors and state enforcement officers actively check for UCR compliance, and failure to register can result in fines ranging from $50 to $2,000 per day, per vehicle, depending on the state. In addition, vehicles may be detained or taken out of service on the spot, leading to costly downtime, missed loads, and damaged customer relationships. Beyond the financial penalties, non-compliance can also raise red flags with the FMCSA and harm a carrier’s overall safety record. Registering on time protects your business from these disruptions and gives you the peace of mind to stay focused on the road.
Businesses That Must Apply for UCR Registration
If your business operates commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce, you’re required to register for the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program. Filing your UCR registration on time keeps you compliant, avoids costly penalties, and protects your operating authority.
The following business types are required to register:
- Motor carriers of property, private or for-hire (including Ag-exempt farmers).
- For-hire passenger carriers with vehicles for 10 or more passengers (including driver).
- Leasing companies that provide vehicles without drivers to interstate carriers.
- Freight forwarders (FF).
- Brokers arranging interstate shipments.
- Businesses based outside the U.S. must comply if their trucks or operations cross into the country.
What Happens When You Fail To Get A UCR Registration?
If you are caught driving across state lines without UCR, enforcement officials have the right to detain your vehicle. In addition to that, there could be other penalties. Depending on which state you are from, and which state you are caught in, the penalties range from $50 to $2000 per day or even possible jail time.
UCR 2026 Filing Fees
| Fleet Size / Entity Type | 2026 UCR Fee | Description / Notes |
| 0 – 2 vehicles | $219 | This lowest tier applies to small carriers, private carriers, brokers, leasing companies, or freight forwarders with no or minimal vehicles. |
| 3 – 5 vehicles | $399 | For motor carriers or forwarders operating 3 to 5 vehicles interstate. |
| 6 – 20 vehicles | $679 | Covers medium-sized fleets of 6 to 20 vehicles. |
| 21 – 100 vehicles | $1,699 | For larger carriers operating between 21 and 100 vehicles. |
Note: All carriers must file by December 31 for the upcoming registration year. Late filings may be subject to enforcement actions.
FAQ
What if I renewed my UCR with DOT Compliance Group last year?
If you renewed with us last year, please check your Customer portal. If auto-renewal is still active, your UCR will automatically renew. If you have turned off auto-renewal, you’ll need to submit your renewal here on this page.
If I Pre-Register for 2026 UCR, when will I be charged the total amount?
The total amount will be charged on October 1, 2026 for the 2026 year.
I am an Ag Exempt Farmer. Am I exempt from registering for UCR?
Who is Exempt from UCR?
What states do not currently participate in UCR?
If my base state is a non-participating state that means UCR does not apply to me, correct?
If I am an Amazon or Postal Service Contractor do I have to register for UCR?
What Is the Deadline for 2026 UCR Registration?
The registration period for 2026 UCR opens on October 1, 2025 via the National Registration System, and all eligible carriers must complete their filing by December 31, 2025 to remain in compliance.
Who Does the UCR Agreement Apply To?
The UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) program applies to businesses operating motor vehicles in interstate commerce including for-hire motor carriers, motor private carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, and leasing companies. If your business engages in cross-state transport or arranges interstate freight—even if you’re based in a different state—you’ll likely need to register under UCR.
How are UCR Fees Determined?
UCR fees are set using a flat, per-carrier structure based on the number of commercial motor vehicles a carrier reports on their most recent MCS-150 filing. The UCR Board recommends the fee brackets, and FMCSA approves the fees annually, considering revenue needs, administrative costs, and past collections.
What are the UCR Recordkeeping Requirements?
Carriers required to register under the UCR program must retain sufficient records to support all information submitted on their annual UCR filing including the list of vehicles used, any subtractions from the fleet count, and documentation verifying those figures. States may audit registrants, so it’s critical that these records be accessible and accurate. Typically, carriers must keep UCR documents for at least three years after the due date or filing date, whichever is later, plus any additional time required by state audits or inquiries.
