UCR enforcement during roadside inspections and weigh stations

Dec. 12, 2025, 6:10 p.m.
The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program is enforced at both roadside inspections and state weigh stations, mainly by state law enforcement, DOT officers, and highway patrol units. Enforcement focuses on verifying whether a carrier operating in interstate commerce has paid its annual UCR fee.
UCR enforcement

Register your UCR here to avoid costly fines and penalties - https://www.fmcsa.me/

 

1. How Officers Check UCR Compliance

During an inspection, officers typically verify UCR status through:

A. Real-time database check

Officers use the National UCR Database to confirm:

  • Whether the carrier is registered for the current year

  • The number of vehicles reported

  • Whether fees were paid

B. USDOT Number review

Your USDOT number must match what is listed in the UCR system. Any mismatch can trigger a violation.

2. When UCR Is Checked

A. At weigh stations

Most states check UCR as part of the standard screening process.
If your UCR is missing or expired, you may be:

  • Pulled around for an inspection

  • Issued a citation

  • Required to pay an on-the-spot UCR fee (varies by state)

  • Given an out-of-service order (rare, but possible in some states)

B. During roadside inspections

Officers may ask about UCR compliance during:

  • Level I full inspections

  • Level II walk-around inspections

  • Level III driver-only inspections

3. What Happens If Carrier Is Not Registered

Consequences vary by state, but common actions include:

A. Citations and fines

Fines range widely, depending on the state:

  • $100–$500 in many states

  • Up to $1,000+ in aggressive enforcement states like Indiana, Georgia, and Kansas

B. Delays at weigh stations

You may be required to:

  • Stop operations until UCR is paid

  • Complete a registration onsite

  • Provide documentation of payment

C. Repeat violations trigger higher penalties

States track prior violations and may impose escalating fines.

4. How Officers Decide to Enforce UCR

Officers usually consider:

  • Whether the vehicle is engaged in interstate commerce

  • The company’s inspection history

  • Previous UCR violations

  • Whether the carrier is operating under its own authority or leased

Even if you are empty or bobtailing, interstate capability triggers UCR enforcement.

5. UCR Enforcement Is Only for Interstate Carriers

You must comply with UCR if you:

  • Cross state lines for commercial purposes

  • Haul loads that start or end outside the state

  • Are a broker, freight forwarder, or leasing company operating interstate

You do NOT need UCR if you are strictly intrastate and do not engage in interstate commerce.

6. Proof of UCR Registration

Drivers do not need to carry a physical UCR certificate.
The officer verifies compliance electronically.

However, many carriers keep:

  • A printed copy of UCR payment receipt

  • A digital copy in the driver’s ELD documents folder

This can reduce delays in states where systems are slow or offline.

7. States Known for Active Enforcement

Some states are especially strict during roadside or weigh station checks:

  • Indiana

  • Kansas

  • Georgia

  • Nevada

  • New Mexico

  • Utah

  • Oregon

  • Texas (varies by region)

These states frequently write citations for expired or missing UCR.

8. Best Practices to Avoid UCR Violations

  • Register early (opens October 1 each year)

  • Keep proof of payment in the truck

  • Verify fleet vehicle counts before filing

  • Update UCR if company name, address, or structure changes

  • Make sure your USDOT number is not inactive or out-of-date

https://plan.ucr.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/UCR-Enforcement-Brochure-Final.pdf