Description
Out-of-Business (OOB) – USDOT Deactivation
Deactivating your USDOT number is mandatory if the number is no longer being used.
The “Out of Business” (OOB) filing should occur within 30 days of ceasing operations or if you’re no longer utilizing your USDOT number.
This ensures that outdated or inaccurate information is not retained in the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) database.
Need to Know
Informing the FMCSA verbally isn’t sufficient.
- To officially deactivate your USDOT number, you must submit a MCS-150 deactivation form.
- If you don’t file this form, the FMCSA may still show your business as active, which can lead to unnecessary compliance requirements, notices, or potential penalties.
The MCS‑150 form handles both deactivation and reactivation.
- Whether you’re taking your USDOT number out of service or bringing it back, it’s done through the same MCS‑150 form.
- When filing, check a different box to indicate deactivation, leave it active, or reactivate.
Reactivation is possible
- If you resume operations later, you can reactivate your DOT number by submitting the same MCS‑150 form and selecting the appropriate option.
- This avoids having to get a completely new DOT number.
Why DOT Compliance Group?
- We Simplify Complex Federal Requirements
- We File Quickly and Accurately
- We Help Prevent Fines and DOT Number Deactivation
- We Provide Real Support — Not Automated Bots
- We Stay With You Beyond a Single Filing
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I deactivate my USDOT number?
To officially deactivate your USDOT number, you must submit an MCS-150 form to the FMCSA indicating your business is no longer operating. Simply calling or emailing the FMCSA is not sufficient. The form must be filed within 30 days of ceasing operations to ensure your records are properly updated.
What happens if I don’t file an Out-of-Business notice?
If you don’t file an Out-of-Business notice with the FMCSA, your USDOT number may still show as active in the federal database. This can lead to unnecessary compliance requirements, notices, or potential penalties even though you are no longer operating.
Can I reactivate my USDOT number after filing Out of Business?
Yes. If you resume operations later, you can reactivate your USDOT number by submitting a new MCS-150 form and selecting the reactivation option. This allows you to use your existing USDOT number instead of applying for a new one.
Do I need to file Out of Business if I’m just temporarily stopping operations?
If you are temporarily stopping operations, you should evaluate whether filing an Out-of-Business notice is appropriate. The OOB filing is intended for carriers that have ceased operations or are no longer using their USDOT number. If you plan to resume operations soon, consult with a compliance specialist to determine the best course of action.
