What does 49 CFR 385.607 (FMCSA action on the application) require?

Based on 49 CFR 385.607, FMCSA takes the following actions on applications and establishes these requirements for non-North America-domiciled motor carriers:

* Application Review and Validation: FMCSA reviews each application and checks the accuracy of the provided information and certifications against government databases in the United States and the carrier's home country.

* Pre-Authorization Safety Audit: Before granting new entrant registration, every non-North America-domiciled motor carrier must satisfactorily complete an FMCSA-administered safety audit to review written procedures, validate application information, and prove basic safety management controls.

* Operating Authority Protests: If you are requesting for-hire operating authority, your application may be protested. Registration will be granted after successfully completing the safety audit and the expiration of the protest period (provided no protest is filed, or if FMCSA denies/rejects any filed protests).

* USDOT Number and Initiation Steps: If FMCSA grants your registration, you will receive a distinctive USDOT Number. Before you can start operating in the United States, you must:

1. Have your insurance or surety provider file proof of financial responsibility.

2. File (or have your process agent electronically submit) Form BOC-3 (Designation of Agents).

* Safety Monitoring System Compliance: You must comply with all safety monitoring system provisions, which includes successfully passing North American Standard commercial motor vehicle inspections at least every 90 days and having safety decals affixed to each commercial motor vehicle.

* Permanent Registration Timeline: Your registration will remain under the new entrant status for at least 18 months. FMCSA cannot re-designate it to permanent until you successfully complete the safety monitoring system, which includes earning a Satisfactory safety rating from a compliance review.