Two different problems
FMCSA says its systems will not allow a motor carrier to request reinstatement if the USDOT number is inactive or out of service, and that the number needs up-to-date contact information on file. You may submit an MCS-150 along with the reinstatement request to update your information. If your USDOT number is inactive, start with inactive USDOT number and reactivation. Source: How do I reinstate my Operating Authority?.
What this usually involves 5 steps
- Make sure the USDOT number is active with current contact details
- Have insurance on file
- Have a BOC-3 on file
- Submit the reinstatement request (FMCSA lists an $80 fee)
- Confirm the authority on SAFER
Rather not deal with this? Hand it to a Personal Compliance Specialist.
Consult with a Compliance SpecialistWhat FMCSA requires
- Minimum financial responsibility (insurance) on file with FMCSA, filed by your insurer.
- A BOC-3 designation of process agent on file.
- For motor carriers, an active USDOT number with up-to-date contact information.
- The request fee: FMCSA's reinstatement FAQ says the cost to request a reinstatement is $80.00, and its MCS-150 page also lists an $80 fee for online reinstatement requests.
Sources: How do I reinstate my Operating Authority?; Form MCS-150 and Instructions. Check the fee shown when you file.
Where to request it
FMCSA's Move into Motus page lists "reinstate a suspended operating authority or reapply after revocation" as an action in Motus. Source: Move into Motus. FMCSA's older reinstatement FAQ (2023) describes the FMCSA Portal, or a paper MCSA-5889 sent through a contact-center ticket, and says paper submissions may take up to 8 days for review and processing. Check which route FMCSA points you to when you file.
When you cannot request reinstatement
FMCSA says you cannot request reinstatement if you have been placed out of service for being an imminent hazard or due to a final unsatisfactory safety rating (UNSAT/UNFIT). See out-of-service orders.
Timing, in FMCSA's words
FMCSA's FAQ says authority is typically active within a week of application receipt and valid payment, and that FMCSA will notify you if the application is on hold, pending additional information, or in vetting. That is typical, not guaranteed, and we cannot promise a date.
You can do this yourself
You can request reinstatement directly with FMCSA. Your insurance filing still has to come from your insurer, and the BOC-3 from a process agent company. If you would like help lining it all up, use the form on this page.
Common mistakes that cause delays
- Requesting reinstatement while the number is inactive or out of service. FMCSA systems block it. (FMCSA: Reinstate operating authority)
- Expecting reinstatement after an imminent hazard order or a final unsatisfactory or unfit safety rating. FMCSA does not allow it. (FMCSA: Reinstate operating authority)
Do it yourself
- Free to file in Motus
- You set up Login.gov and verify your identity
- You work out which form or request fits your record
- You match names, addresses and filings exactly
- You follow up until the change shows on SAFER
Have a specialist handle it
- A Personal Compliance Specialist reads your public record first
- You get a plain list of what is outstanding
- We prepare the filings with you and check they post
- You still complete Login.gov identity verification yourself
- Paid service. Any government fee is separate
Prefer to hand it off? A Personal Compliance Specialist can take it from here.
Talk to a Personal Compliance SpecialistCommon questions
How much does it cost to reinstate an MC number?
FMCSA's reinstatement FAQ says the cost to request a reinstatement is $80.00. Check the fee shown when you file.
Is that the same as reactivating my USDOT number?
No. Reactivating an inactive USDOT number is a separate process, and the $80 fee applies to reinstating operating authority.
Why was I blocked from requesting reinstatement?
FMCSA says its systems will not accept the request if the USDOT number is inactive or out of service, and that you cannot request it if you were placed out of service as an imminent hazard or due to a final unsatisfactory (UNSAT/UNFIT) safety rating.
Do I need insurance and a BOC-3 first?
Yes. FMCSA requires minimum financial responsibility and a designation of process agent (BOC-3) on file.
Is the $80 fee refundable?
FMCSA's reinstatement FAQ does not say. We do not want to guess, so check with FMCSA before you pay.
Still unsure after the questions above? Ask a Personal Compliance Specialist.
Consult with a Compliance SpecialistFMCSA sources
- FMCSA: How do I reinstate my Operating Authority?
- FMCSA: Form MCS-150 and Instructions
- FMCSA: Move into Motus
Checked November 15, 2026. FMCSA pages change; check the source before you rely on a detail. DOT Number Help is an independent service, not FMCSA, and you can file any of this directly with FMCSA.