UCR Registration 2027: Fees, Deadlines and Who Must Register

By Authority Launcher · Updated October 29, 2026

Quick answer: Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) is an annual fee for interstate motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies. For 2027 the fee starts at $55 for carriers with 0 to 2 vehicles (it was $46 for 2026). 2027 registration opened October 1, 2026 and must be completed before January 1, 2027.

UCR fees by fleet size

Brokers and leasing companies pay the lowest bracket fee. Source: the UCR Plan's published fee brackets.

Who must register for UCR?

Generally, motor carriers operating in interstate commerce, plus brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies. If you hold an MC number and haul across state lines, plan to register every year.

How to register

1. Go to the official UCR National Registration System (ucr.gov).
2. Enter your USDOT number and confirm your company details.
3. Count the commercial vehicles you operated in interstate commerce to find your bracket.
4. Pay online and keep your receipt.

Watch out for third-party sites that look official and charge large markups. The fee itself is set by the UCR Plan.

What happens if you don't register?

After January 1 the fee is still owed, and unregistered carriers can face state enforcement, including roadside citations.

Frequently asked questions

I just got my authority in November. Do I pay for this year and next year?

You may need to register for the current year before you operate and for the next year before January 1. Check ucr.gov for the registration year you're operating in.

Does UCR replace IFTA or IRP?

No. UCR is separate from IFTA fuel tax and IRP apportioned plates.

Related: Full startup cost breakdown

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