Unified Carrier Registration

Oct. 4, 2025, 10 a.m.
UCR (Unified Carrier Registration)
Unified Carrier Registration

 

Unified Carrier Registration (UCR): Complete Guide

What Is UCR

The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program is a federal registration system in the United States that applies to commercial motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, leasing companies, and freight shippers engaged in interstate commerce.

The program is administered by the UCR Board of Directors under the authority of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and is implemented across participating U.S. states.

Purpose of the Program

The main goal of the UCR is to simplify the registration process for commercial transportation entities and to fund roadway safety programs.

The UCR program replaced the older Single State Registration System (SSRS), creating a unified and streamlined process for compliance.

Who Must Register

The following entities are required to register under UCR if they operate in interstate commerce:

  • Motor Carriers – for-hire and private carriers transporting goods or passengers;

  • Brokers – companies arranging transportation of goods;

  • Freight Forwarders – logistics companies consolidating and shipping freight;

  • Leasing Companies – businesses leasing commercial vehicles;

  • Private Carriers – organizations operating their own vehicles for business purposes across state lines.

Fees and Registration Period

UCR registration is annual and fees depend on the number of commercial motor vehicles operated by the registrant.
Payment is made online through the portal: https://www.fmcsa.me/

Number of Vehicles Registration Fee (Approx.)
0–2 $129
3–5 $275
6–20 $499
21–100 $1745
101–1,000 $9985
1,001 or more $119745

Note: Fees may vary slightly from year to year as determined by the UCR Board.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to register or pay UCR fees can result in:

  • Fines ranging from $1000 to $5,000 per violation;

  • Suspension of carrier operations;

  • DOT/FMCSA compliance issues, including roadside enforcement delays.

Maintaining an active and valid UCR registration helps carriers avoid penalties and ensures full regulatory compliance.

Conclusion

The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) system plays a vital role in promoting highway safety and regulatory compliance among commercial transportation entities in the United States.

Staying compliant with UCR requirements not only prevents costly fines but also demonstrates a company’s commitment to professionalism and lawful operations.

For the latest information or to complete your registration, visit the website:
 https://www.fmcsa.me/