49 CFR §385.305

1. (a)The applicant for new entrant registration will be directed to the FMCSA Internet website (https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov) to secure and/or complete the application package online.
2. (b)The application package will include the following:
   1. (1)Educational and technical assistance material regarding the requirements of the FMCSRs and HMRs, if applicable.
   2. (2)Form MCSA-1—FMCSA Registration/Update (USDOT Number—Operating Authority Application). This form is used to obtain both a USDOT Number and operating authority.
3. (c)Upon completion of the application form, the new entrant will be issued an inactive USDOT Number. An applicant may not begin operations nor mark a commercial motor vehicle with the USDOT Number until after the date of the Agency's written notice that the USDOT Number has been activated. Violations of this section may be subject to the penalties under § 392.9b(b) of this chapter.
4. (d)Additional requirements for certain for-hire motor carriers. For-hire motor carriers, unless providing transportation exempt from the commercial registration requirements in 49 U.S.C. chapter 139, must obtain operating authority as prescribed under § 390.201(b) and part 365 of this chapter before operating in interstate commerce.