Commercial Vehicle Registration: How To Make The Process Easier And Faster

By  //  August 30, 2021

It’s expected and required that you register your commercial vehicles but registering your commercial vehicle doesn’t have to be a painstaking process. Whether it’s your SUV, van, truck, or car that is utilized for commercial purposes, you definitely can’t avoid the need for registration.

However, many do seem to be confused about whether to oblige to a passenger registration or a commercial registration, given the varied registration standards across the country.

Due to this, if you feel thoroughly confused about what to do or how to go about your registration, it may be better you reach out to experts who are versed on rules and regulations relating to this subject matter to have a firm grasp of what you must do.

Nevertheless, take note that before your vehicle registration can be done, you’ll be asked to provide several documents but there are a few tips you can always make use of to make the process easier and faster. 

Tips to Register Your Commercial Vehicle Seamlessly 

To register your vehicle locally, it’s mandated that you abide by the provisions of your jurisdiction, province, or state, and what you must do first is to make an inquiry to be sure if your vehicle is considered to be a commercial vehicle. And with this, you’ll be completely sure if you must proceed to do the necessary registration.

Registering a commercial vehicle can actually appear to be a very complicated process and it’s no surprise why most people now prefer to use fleet registration services to save themselves the headache that comes with commercial registration services.

However, take note that registration with other organizations like IFTA, IRP, and UCR may be necessary if operating your vehicle across the state or international lines is what you plan to do. 

Confirm That Your Vehicle Requires Commercial Registration

Some people don’t even have a proper understanding regarding which of their vehicles are to be registered and your first step to avoid the stress of registration is to be sure.

Thus, if you want to be sure if you need to register your vehicle commercially, make inquiries from the agency that’s charged with the responsibility of vehicle registrations; it may be the transit authority or local DMV. Take note that each jurisdiction, province, or state has its varied definition of a commercial vehicle and this is why you must be cautious. 

■ For instance, in Alaska, if your vehicle is registered in a company or business name, it’s considered to be a commercial vehicle. 

■ In some places, how big your vehicle is and what you use it for (maybe to move people or goods commercially) can also determine your vehicle’s registration status. 

■ Based on the nature of your vehicle, the registration requirements usually vary across different jurisdictions, provinces, or states. 

If Needed, Apply For A USDOT Number

Before your registration can be certified and for you to commence operating your commercial vehicle legally, you may need to get a USDOT or local DOT number — this is most common in the United States. Depending on your state’s laws, you may only need a local DOT number if your operation is limited within your state.

But, you’ll likely need a USDOT number if you’ll be operating your commercial vehicle across state boundaries. Take note that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has some requirements that your vehicle must meet and to be sure if you need a USDOT or local DOT number, make sure you do your research. 

Complete A Registration Form

You’ll definitely have to complete a registration form to seal your registration. Your registration form may be combined with a title form, based on where you’re undergoing your registration. And, while you may ask for the appropriate form(s) at your local DMV office, it’s also possible for you to see through your registration online via your DMV website. 

The size and type of vehicle you’re registering, the tax ID associated with your DOT number, and your DOT number (if applicable) are some of the information you may be asked to provide. Be informed that you’ll be expected to provide any applicable information and ensure that you note that you’re registering a commercial vehicle. 

Additional Documents May Be Requested 

Insurance information, proof of identification, or title are other supporting documents that may be needed — make sure you ask at your DMV or check your form to be sure if this is necessary. However, be aware that you’ll be asked to fill out and attach a Heavy Highway Vehicle Use tax form if your vehicle weighs over 55,000 lbs if you live in the United States. 

You can make the registration process of your commercial vehicle a stress-free one if you’re conscious of all the necessities involved. And, don’t forget that you may have to pay the required application fees after you’ve submitted your registration form, provided the necessary details, and supplied the requested documents.