The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is rolling out the most significant modernization of its registration systems in decades. The new registration system —Motus—is designed to replace a patchwork of outdated systems with a single, streamlined, and secure portal for managing FMCSA registrations.
If you’re a motor carrier or otherwise regulated by FMCSA, Motus is coming in 2026. Getting familiar with it now can help you avoid confusion, delays, and compliance headaches later.
Access their fact sheet at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/motus-supporting-company-access-fact-sheet
What Is Motus?
Motus is FMCSA’s new USDOT registration system. It consolidates multiple legacy platforms into one centralized online portal used by motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, and supporting companies.
Through Motus, users will be able to manage:
- USDOT number applications
- Operating authority registrations
- Biennial updates
- Insurance filings
- User access and company information
Why FMCSA Is Replacing the Current System
FMCSA’s existing registration infrastructure relies on technology that, in some cases, is decades old. These systems do not communicate well with each other, leading to:
- Inconsistent or inaccurate data
- Filing errors and delays
- Increased risk of fraudulent or improper registrations
What’s Changing with Motus?
Motus is designed to bring FMCSA registration fully into the 21st century. Key improvements include:
- A Simplified Registration Process
All registration activities—from initial applications to biennial updates—will be completed in one place. No more jumping between systems or re-entering the same information.
- A Better User Experience
Motus uses auto-population, real-time validation, and built-in logic to flag issues as information is entered. These tools help reduce errors, prevent rejected filings, and speed up processing.
- Mobile-Friendly Access
Unlike legacy platforms, Motus works seamlessly on tablets and mobile devices, allowing users to review and update information on the go.
- Stronger Security and Fraud Prevention
Motus requires secure Login.gov authentication and incorporates enhanced identity and business-address verification. These measures help prevent fraudulent registrations and combat attempting to reenter the system under new identities.
What’s Not Changing—At Least for Now
Based on industry feedback, FMCSA has confirmed that the initial Motus rollout will not:
- Eliminate MC, FF, or MX docket numbers
- Implement safety registration
- Change the BOC-3 filing process
Motus Rollout will be deployed in 3 phrases; :
Phase 1: Supporting Companies (December 2025)
Supporting entities—such as insurers, surety companies, BOC-3 filers, and service providers—receive early access to create user profiles and company accounts. This ensures they’re ready to support motor carriers when Motus opens broadly.
Phase 2: All Users (2026)
FMCSA has not announced a firm launch date, but Motus is expected to open to all users in mid-to-late 2026. At that time, users will be able to:
- Create a Motus user profile
- Verify business information and establish a company account
- Manage user permissions
- Apply for and maintain registrations
- Submit required filings
Phase 3: Post-Launch Enhancements
After launch, FMCSA will continue adding features and refining the system based on user feedback and operational needs.
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