Regulation Changes Impacting Trucking

• Elimination of MC Numbers Starting October 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will discontinue Motor Carrier (MC) Numbers. All carriers must use USDOT numbers exclusively. This aims to streamline registration and reduce fraudulent activity. Carriers should ensure their USDOT number is current and used consistently on all documents.

• Centralized Registration System FMCSA is launching a new online registration platform consolidating forms and processes. Trucking companies must review and update compliance documentation to transition smoothly.

• Medical Certification Process Changes From June 23, 2025, certified medical examiners must electronically submit DOT exam results to the FMCSA’s National Registry, which will then transmit them to State Driver Licensing Agencies. Drivers no longer need to carry paper medical certificates, but must verify their certifications are properly recorded to avoid issues during inspections.

• Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse Enforcement State driver licensing agencies must deny or downgrade CDLs for drivers with unresolved drug and alcohol violations until they complete the return-to-duty process.

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Mandate The FMCSA is proposing a rule to require AEB systems in new heavy trucks starting as early as spring 2025. Existing Class 3–6 trucks (10,001–26,000 lbs) will have three years to retrofit, while Class 7–8 vehicles (over 26,000 lbs) will have four years. Estimated retrofit cost: $1,500–$3,000 per truck.

• Speed Limiter Proposal Trucks over 26,000 pounds may soon require speed-limiting technology. The FMCSA has not finalized the maximum speed, but the rule could take effect in 2025.

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