Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) Rules for Washington Truckers

Nov. 1, 2025, 6:32 p.m.
The Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) program is a vital part of compliance for trucking companies and motor carriers operating across state lines. If your trucking business is based in Washington or you operate in or through the state, understanding UCR rules is essential to avoid costly fines and stay in good standing with regulators.
Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) Rules for Washington Truckers

1. What Is the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)?

The UCR program is a federal registration system that requires motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders who operate in interstate commerce to pay an annual fee based on the size of their fleet.
The program ensures that trucking companies contribute to the upkeep of enforcement, safety, and regulatory programs across participating states — including Washington State.

2. Who Needs to Register for UCR in Washington?

You must register under the UCR program if your business:

  • Operates commercial motor vehicles across state or international borders, and

  • Has a valid USDOT Number, even if your base state is not Washington.

The UCR applies to:

  • For-hire motor carriers (hauling freight or passengers for compensation)

  • Private carriers (hauling their own goods across state lines)

  • Freight forwarders

  • Leasing companies

  • Brokers

If your trucking operation only operates within Washington (intrastate) and never crosses state lines, you do not need to register for UCR.

3. How to Register for UCR

Washington participates in the UCR online registration system, which makes filing fast and simple:

Steps:

  1. Visit the official UCR website:  www.fmcsa.me

  2. Enter your USDOT Number to pull up your company details.

  3. Confirm your fleet size and pay the annual UCR fee.

  4. Keep a copy of your receipt as proof of registration.

4. What Are the UCR Fees?

Fees depend on the number of commercial vehicles you operate interstate.
For example, for 2025, small carriers (0–2 vehicles) pay around $129, while large fleets (over 1,000 vehicles) pay several thousand dollars.

(Exact fees can change annually — always confirm the current year’s rates at www.fmcsa.me).

5. UCR Enforcement in Washington

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) and the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) enforce UCR compliance.
If you are stopped for inspection and cannot show proof of registration, you may face:

  • Citations and fines

  • Vehicle detention until compliance is confirmed

  • Increased scrutiny in future inspections

6. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to register or renew your UCR can result in:

  • Fines of $100 to $500 per vehicle

  • Possible suspension of operating authority

  • Delays or penalties during roadside inspections

Timely renewal each year (by December 31) is key to avoiding these issues.

7. Key Takeaway

For Washington truckers, the Unified Carrier Registration is a simple but critical part of staying compliant with federal and state trucking laws.
By renewing your UCR registration annually, you’ll avoid fines, maintain your authority, and demonstrate a commitment to safe, legal trucking operations.