Running your own truck? Here’s everything you need to stay compliant.
Business Requirements
Authority
- Operating Authority (MC Number) OR
- Lease to carrier with authority
- Check status at FMCSA SAFER
Insurance
- $750,000 minimum liability (general freight)
- $1,000,000 for HazMat
- Cargo insurance varies
UCR (Unified Carrier Registration)
- Annual registration required
- Based on fleet size
- Register at ucr.gov
Driver Qualification File
Even for yourself, maintain:
- Application for employment
- MVR (annual)
- Medical certificate
- Road test certification
- Previous employer checks
- Drug/alcohol testing records
Drug Testing Requirements
You MUST be in a random testing consortium:
- Pre-employment test
- Random testing pool
- Reasonable suspicion
- Post-accident (when applicable)
- Return-to-duty (if needed)
Vehicle Requirements
- Annual inspection (sticker current)
- Registration (IRP if interstate)
- IFTA (if applicable)
- Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (Form 2290)
- ELD installed and compliant
Record Keeping
Maintain for required periods:
- Inspection reports: 1 year
- HOS records: 6 months
- Drug tests: 5 years
- Accident records: 3 years
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting UCR renewal
- Lapsed random testing
- Expired medical card
- Missing DVIR documentation
Stay organized - it’s your business!
Need help with DOT compliance, background checks, or drug testing management? Vertical Identity can help you stay compliant and keep your drivers on the road.