FMCSA Launches Motus: Easier Trucking Registrations Ahead
Published Date: 4/29/2026
Notice
Summary
FMCSA is rolling out Motus, a brand-new online system that makes registering motor carriers and related companies way easier and faster. Starting with supporting companies in late 2025, Motus will open to everyone who needs to register by mid-2026, replacing the old system. This means less hassle, smoother sign-ups, and no extra fees—just better service and progress in motion!
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Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Motus Replaces URS in 2026
FMCSA will replace the current Unified Registration System (URS) with a new system called Motus. Phase I opened on December 8, 2025 for supporting companies, and Phase II is planned for the second quarter of 2026 when Motus will be available to all regulated entities and the current URS will be disabled.
Mandatory Identity Proofing Requirement
All new applicants must pass identity proofing in Motus and FMCSA expects to verify the identities of approximately 800,000 existing registrants when they first access Motus. Completing identity verification requires a smartphone or tablet and a valid government-issued ID using a QR code, a photo of the ID, and a selfie.
New Business Verification to Reduce Fraud
Motus will use a business verification service (partnered with CLEAR) to validate company legal name, principal place of business, ownership structure, officials, and status to reduce fraud. FMCSA estimates about 5.5 million government transactions annually require business verification.
Forms Consolidated; Expect 8 Business-Day Review
Once Phase II is released, most existing registration forms will be integrated into Motus and users will enter information into online fields instead of submitting separate documents (OP-1(MX) is excepted). Customers may expect a minimum timeframe of eight business days for initial review and processing, plus extra time if an application is flagged for further vetting. FMCSA plans a rulemaking in Spring 2026 proposing to require Motus and eliminate the listed legacy forms.
No Penalties During Phase II Transition
During Phase II implementation and before any regulatory changes eliminate legacy forms, applicants or registrants who use Motus will not be cited or penalized for not using the listed forms despite current URS-based regulatory requirements. FMCSA encourages use of Motus but will continue to accept legacy forms until regulatory changes occur.
Online Payments for Registration via Pay.gov
Motus will allow individuals and businesses to record payment for registration transactions via Pay.gov for all registration transactions where fees are applied. Motus supports viewing and updating registration information on mobile devices and tablets.
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