The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers numerous online resources for drivers and motor carriers. Checking your safety record, challenging incorrect information, updating demographic data, and utilizing resources to become a better commercial driver are just some things you can do through the FMCSA website. However, you need to have a personal identification number (PIN) to access areas with sensitive data just as you do with any other website. If you don’t yet have a PIN, follow the instructions below to establish one.
Types of PINs issued by the FMCSA
You must obtain two types of PINs to access online records collected and managed by the FMCSA. The first is the PIN you received when registering for your identification number with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT). The FMCSA may request this number if you lose or forget it. You will need to request the second PIN from the FMCSA directly. This is the MC number or docket number.
How to request a PIN Online
To request a PIN for the first time, navigate to the FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Record (SAFER) system and read the instructions and disclaimers on the page. Once you have done that, click on the hyperlink halfway down the page labeled “Click here to request a USDOT number PIN to be emailed.” You can also click the hyperlink to have the FMCSA send the PIN through postal mail if you prefer. The system will then prompt you for the following information:
- USDOT number
- US Federal ID, which is typically an employer identification number (EIN) or social security number (SSN). It can also be a Mexican tax identification number known as Registro Federal de Contribuyentes (RFC).
- Carrier name
- Company official
- Official title
- Contact details
You will also need to complete a brief verification to prove your identity before the FMCSA can issue an electronic PIN. This typically involves receiving a verification code via email or text and entering it into the FMCSA system. You can only receive a PIN electronically if the FMCSA system determines that you have a valid email or mobile phone number already on record. If it cannot confirm this, you will receive your PIN details via postal mail.
You should receive your PIN by email immediately if the SAFER system can confirm your registration details. It can take up to 10 business days to receive your PIN by postal mail. If you need to apply for a MC/docket PIN, the FMCSA only issues those numbers by postal mail to the mailing address you have on file with the organization. To ensure you have received an appropriate PIN, look for eight characters in the format of one number, one letter, two numbers, two letters, one number, and one letter.
Get help with your insurance needs
While the FMCSA offers an extensive amount of information on its website, it’s also important to make sure you get the truck insurance you need to protect your business. Our team can help you get quotes for the coverage you need. You can learn more by completing a quote request form today. Or, if you prefer, simply give us a call or message us on LiveChat.
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