1. Legal name + USDOT number — both sides
The federal baseline (49 CFR 390.21): your legal or registered DBA name plus "USDOT" and your number, on both sides of the power unit, contrasting color, readable from 50 feet. This must be on before you operate — magnetic signs are legal if they meet the same spec, and a good bridge while vinyl ships.
2. Check your state's extras
Intrastate? Your state may add its own trigger weight or a state suffix (MT, MO, OK, WY). Some states also want a state carrier number. Our 50-state rules table has the verified specifics.
3. MC number — if you're for-hire interstate
Operating authority (MC) isn't displayed by federal rule anymore, but many carriers still letter it under the USDOT number — brokers, shippers, and some states expect to see it. If you show it, keep the format consistent: "MC 123456".
4. GVW / GVWR where required
Some states (New Jersey at 26,001+ lbs, for example) require the weight rating displayed in letters at least 3 inches high. Dump trucks and dually work trucks often need GVW decals for local enforcement.
5. The order that saves money
Run the free compliance check first — it builds the exact list for your state, weight, and operation, with your numbers filled in. Then order once, not three times. A full compliance kit (name + USDOT + MC + GVW, cut to match) is usually cheaper than piecing it together.
Don't forget the paper side
Marking is the visible part; new entrants also face the FMCSA new-entrant safety audit window, UCR registration, and state permits. The truck lettering is the easy box to tick — tick it first and roll legal.
General information, not legal advice. Rules change — confirm current federal and state requirements with the FMCSA and your state agency before you operate. Our state summaries were verified against primary sources July 2026.
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