DOT Guides › UCR registration: when it opens, when it is due, what it costs
UCR registration: when it opens, when it is due, what it costs
Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) is an annual registration for interstate motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies.
Dates
- The registration portal for the next year opens October 1. The 2027 portal opened October 1, 2026.
- You must register and pay before January 1 of the registration year to keep operating legally. For 2027, that means by December 31, 2026.
- After January 1 the fee is still due and states may take enforcement action.
2027 fee brackets (carriers)
| Commercial motor vehicles | Fee |
|---|---|
| 0–2 | $55 |
| 3–5 | $167 |
| 6–20 | $333 |
| 21–100 | $1,163 |
| 101–1,000 | $5,548 |
| 1,001+ | $54,165 |
Brokers and leasing companies that are not also carriers pay $55. Confirm on plan.ucr.gov.
What missing it can cost
Without current UCR on January 1 you are not operating legally, the fee is still owed, and states can enforce it, including at roadside. Fines vary by state.
Sources: plan.ucr.gov
FAQ
Who has to register for UCR?
Companies operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate or international commerce, plus brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies. The UCR Plan has a "Do I need to register?" tool.
When is UCR due?
Before January 1 of the registration year. The window opens October 1 of the prior year.
Official sources
Last reviewed October 2026.