Legal name or DBA on the truck door? What 390.21 allows

What the rule says

49 CFR 390.21T(b)(1), the version currently in effect, requires "the legal name or a single trade name of the motor carrier operating the self-propelled CMV, as listed on the motor carrier identification report (Form MCS-150)." Then the USDOT number, preceded by the letters "USDOT" (b)(2).

Note: you'll usually see this rule cited as 390.21. The eCFR shows 390.21 itself as suspended and 390.21T as the text in force. The name requirement reads the same in both.

What that means in practice

• Legal name works. "Smith Transport LLC" if that's what's on file.
• One DBA works. "Smith Hauling" if it's listed as your DBA with FMCSA.
• A name FMCSA doesn't have doesn't count. If your new brand isn't on your MCS-150, it doesn't satisfy the rule, even if it's registered with your state.
• Single means one. The required marking is one name, not a list of brands.

Logos, phone numbers and extra branding are fine as long as they aren't inconsistent with the required marking (390.21T(b)(4)).

Check SAFER before you order lettering

FMCSA's SAFER Company Snapshot is free. Search by USDOT number and look at the Company Information block: it shows a Legal Name and a DBA Name. Spell the door exactly like one of those. The snapshot also notes that to update that information you file Form MCS-150. Walkthrough: DOT number lookup.

If the name on file is wrong or missing

Update your registration before you letter the truck, not after. Filing details are in MCS-150 biennial update. If you hold operating authority (an MC number), a legal name change can involve more than the MCS-150, so confirm the steps with FMCSA.

Owner-operators leased to a carrier

Different situation: the name on the door is the carrier's, and if your name appears too, the carrier's information follows "operated by." See leased truck: whose DOT number.

Lettering it

Our USDOT truck lettering lets you type the name exactly as SAFER shows it and preview it on a photo of your truck type before you order. Cut vinyl, one pre-spaced sheet per door, both doors from $59.