CALIFORNIA MOTOR CARRIER SERVICES

California
CA Number
registration.

Get your California trucking operation started with a clear plan. Nancy’s helps you prepare your carrier profile, organize your information, and understand the permits you need—so you can focus on your next move.

Based in Montclair, CA · Helping motor carriers operating in California

Commercial semi trucks outside a trucking office at sunset
BUILT AROUND YOUR OPERATIONA stronger start begins with the right paperwork.

01 New CA Number applications

02 CHP 362 profile updates

03 Related permit guidance

WHAT IS A CA NUMBER?

Your California
carrier identification.

A CA Number identifies your motor carrier business with the California Highway Patrol (CHP). It is also used as your Motor Carrier Permit number when your operation requires a DMV permit.

The key distinction: receiving a CA Number does not, by itself, authorize you to operate. Your business may also need an MCP and other registrations.

Who should review their requirements?

  • For-hire carriers & delivery businesses

    Transporting property for compensation in California.

  • Businesses hauling their own goods

    Using qualifying commercial vehicles to move equipment, materials, or products.

  • Out-of-state motor carriers

    Bringing a trucking operation into California.

Requirements depend on your vehicles, cargo, and type of operation. Our team can help you identify what to review.

CA NUMBER · USDOT · MCP

Different credentials.
One coordinated plan.

FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION

USDOT Number

Your federal carrier identifier. Under CHP guidance, covered carriers obtain a USDOT Number before applying for a CA Number, including intrastate carriers.

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL

CA Number

Your California carrier identification number. New applications and profile updates are handled through the Motor Carrier Profile, CHP 362.

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES

Motor Carrier Permit

The MCP is a separate DMV permit for applicable property-carrying operations. It has its own application, insurance, and compliance requirements.

Your CA Number is used as the MCP number. Obtaining the identification number and obtaining the permit are separate steps.

HOW NANCY’S HELPS

From questions
to a clear next step.

01

Start with your operation.

Review your business structure, vehicles, cargo, operating area, and existing carrier numbers.

02

Prepare your carrier profile.

Get assistance organizing your information and preparing CHP 362 for a new application or an update.

03

Connect the requirements.

Understand related USDOT, MCP, and recordkeeping needs that may apply to your business.

04

Keep your information current.

Get support with profile updates as your address, DBA, or operation changes.

CA NUMBER QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

Know before you apply.

Practical answers for new carriers and businesses updating an existing operation.

Do I need a USDOT Number if I only operate in California?

Covered California motor carriers need a USDOT Number before obtaining a CA Number, even when their transportation stays within California. We can help you review your existing numbers and identify the next registration step.

Is my CA Number the same as a Motor Carrier Permit?

Your CA Number identifies the carrier and is also used as the MCP number. The Motor Carrier Permit itself is a separate DMV permit. Having a CA Number does not mean the permit has been issued or that all operating requirements have been met.

Can Nancy’s help update an existing carrier profile?

Yes. We assist with CHP 362 profile updates, including changes to business addresses, DBA names, and operations. A separate legal entity needs its own CA Number, so changes to the business entity should be reviewed before submitting an update.

How do I get started?

Text or call our team and tell us what you drive, what you haul, and whether you already have a USDOT or CA Number. We’ll help you understand the service, gather the required information, and plan your application or update.

Ready for your
next California route?

Let’s get your carrier paperwork moving. Talk to Nancy’s about your CA Number application, profile update, or related permits.