What Does USDOT Status Mean? ACTIVE vs INACTIVE vs OUT-OF-SERVICE Explained | 2042160910

For anyone involved in the transportation industry, the USDOT Number is a crucial identifier. Whether you’re a motor carrier, freight broker, or compliance officer, understanding the status of a USDOT number is essential.

Each USDOT number, such as 2042160910, falls under a specific classification: ACTIVE, INACTIVE, or OUT-OF-SERVICE. These designations are more than just labels—they can affect a company’s ability to operate, its reputation, and even its legal standing.

In this article, we’ll break down what each status means, how it’s determined, and what companies can do to remain compliant with FMCSA regulations. We’ll also provide a table comparison, list common reasons for status changes, and give guidance on maintaining or reactivating a USDOT number.

What Is a USDOT Number?

A USDOT Number, issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), is a unique identifier used to track a company’s safety records, compliance reviews, and other important operational data.

If you transport cargo or passengers across state lines, or meet other threshold requirements, you’re legally obligated to obtain a USDOT number.

The number also helps monitor:

• Accident history
• Safety inspections
• Compliance with hours-of-service rules
• Vehicle maintenance and inspections

The status of your USDOT number—whether ACTIVE, INACTIVE, or OUT-OF-SERVICE—can directly influence your ability to legally operate.

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What Does “ACTIVE” Status Mean?

When a USDOT number like 2042160910 shows an ACTIVE status, it means the entity is authorized to operate commercial vehicles under federal law. This is the ideal and required status for all functioning motor carriers.

Characteristics of an ACTIVE USDOT number:

• Biennial MCS-150 update has been completed on time.
• No outstanding violations or unpaid fines.
• The company has the necessary insurance and registration.
• The carrier meets all safety and operational requirements under 49 CFR guidelines.

Motor carriers with an ACTIVE status are visible in the FMCSA SAFER system and can be verified by brokers, customers, and law enforcement.

What Is an INACTIVE USDOT Status?

An INACTIVE status indicates that the entity has not complied with one or more FMCSA requirements—most commonly the failure to file a biennial update (MCS-150 form). According to 49 CFR 390.19(b)(4), failure to update your company’s details results in an automatic INACTIVE designation.

For example, if USDOT number 2042160910 becomes inactive, it’s likely due to:

• Failing to complete the MCS-150 update every two years.
• Voluntarily choosing to deactivate the number (e.g., business closure).
• Administrative errors or oversight.

This means the carrier is not authorized to operate, and doing so may result in hefty fines or being placed out of service.

What Does “OUT-OF-SERVICE” Mean?

The OUT-OF-SERVICE (OOS) status is the most serious. It’s imposed when a carrier has been found to pose an imminent hazard to public safety, or has failed significant compliance requirements.

Common reasons for being declared OUT-OF-SERVICE:

• Repeated safety violations
• Failure of a safety audit or compliance review
• Operating without proper insurance
• Ignoring an FMCSA enforcement action

For instance, if carrier 2042160910 is marked as OUT-OF-SERVICE, they are legally prohibited from operating any commercial motor vehicles until all violations are corrected and status is reinstated.

Table: Comparison of USDOT Status Types

Status	Meaning	Common Triggers	Can Operate Commercial Vehicles?
ACTIVE	Authorized to operate	Compliance met, MCS-150 updated	✅ Yes
INACTIVE	Temporarily not authorized	Missed MCS-150, Voluntary deactivation	❌ No
OUT-OF-SERVICE	Legally prohibited from operating	Safety violations, Enforcement action	❌ No

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How to Check the Status of a USDOT Number

To verify the status of a USDOT number like 2042160910, follow these steps:

1. Go to the FMCSA SAFER website
2. Enter the USDOT number in the search bar.
3. View the company snapshot, which includes:
   • Current status
   • Type of operations
   • Compliance records
   • Insurance info

This is especially useful for shippers, brokers, and enforcement agencies checking carrier legitimacy.

How to Reactivate an INACTIVE USDOT Number

If your USDOT number has gone INACTIVE, here’s how you can fix it:

1. Update the MCS-150 Form:
   Complete the update via FMCSA’s online portal or by mail.
2. Include Accurate Information:
   Provide updated company details, number of vehicles, and operation classification.
3. Submit & Wait for Approval:
   Processing typically takes 1-2 business days. Once reviewed, your USDOT number should return to ACTIVE status if all info is correct.

How to Fix an OUT-OF-SERVICE Status

If your carrier, such as USDOT number 2042160910, is placed OUT-OF-SERVICE, the reinstatement process involves:

• Addressing all safety violations or regulatory noncompliance.
• Paying fines or submitting proof of corrective actions.
• Undergoing a Compliance Review (CR) or safety audit.
• Filing necessary forms (e.g., MCS-150, BOC-3, insurance documents).

Contacting an FMCSA service center or hiring a DOT compliance consultant can help expedite this process.

Why the Biennial Update (MCS-150) Matters

Many carriers underestimate the importance of the biennial MCS-150 update. Whether you’re operating a single truck or a fleet, this update keeps your record current.

Carriers that miss their update date—even by accident—risk having their status switched to INACTIVE, as per 49 CFR 390.19. For example, USDOT number 2042160910 would instantly be flagged INACTIVE if it failed to file its biennial MCS-150 update.

To avoid this, set calendar reminders or sign up for update alerts via the FMCSA portal.

Importance of Keeping Your USDOT Number Compliant

Maintaining an ACTIVE USDOT status is not just about legal operation—it’s also about business credibility. Shippers and brokers often screen carriers using their USDOT profile. A company with multiple violations or OUT-OF-SERVICE records will lose opportunities and face increased scrutiny.

Additionally, insurance companies look at FMCSA records when pricing premiums. Clean, compliant records often lead to lower insurance costs and easier renewals.

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Example: USDOT Number 2042160910

Let’s say carrier 2042160910 was listed as INACTIVE on the FMCSA portal. A quick check may reveal it failed to file an MCS-150 update in 2024. After submitting the updated form and resolving any other pending issues, the status could revert to ACTIVE.

This shows how easily a small oversight can affect your status—and how quickly it can be corrected with the right steps.

FAQs About 2042160910

Q1: What happens if I operate with an INACTIVE USDOT number?

Operating while your USDOT number is INACTIVE can lead to enforcement actions, including fines up to $10,000 and being placed OUT-OF-SERVICE.

Q2: Is there a fee to reactivate an INACTIVE USDOT number?

No, reactivating an INACTIVE number via MCS-150 update is free, unless there are violations or insurance lapses that must be resolved.

Q3: Can a USDOT number be transferred to another business?

No, USDOT numbers are not transferable. Each business must apply for its own unique number.

Q4: How often do you need to file the MCS-150 update?

Every two years, even if your company details haven’t changed.

Q5: Can brokers or forwarders have OUT-OF-SERVICE statuses?

Yes. While they may not operate vehicles, brokers can be placed OUT-OF-SERVICE for insurance issues or regulatory noncompliance.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between an ACTIVE, INACTIVE, and OUT-OF-SERVICE USDOT number is vital for compliance and operational success.

Whether it’s a company like 2042160910 or a brand-new carrier, maintaining an ACTIVE status ensures you’re legally fit to operate, protects your reputation, and keeps business running smoothly.

Always update your MCS-150 biennially, check your status regularly, and resolve any compliance issues immediately. With proactive maintenance, your USDOT number will continue to serve as a mark of trust and legitimacy in the transportation industry.