What Is UCR in Trucking?
Also called: Unified Carrier Registration
UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) is a yearly fee that interstate carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies pay to their base state. For 2027, a carrier with 0 to 2 vehicles pays $55, and fees rise with fleet size. Registration for 2027 opened October 1, 2026. You must register and pay before January 1, and the fee is still due after that.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 15, 2026
Key Points
- UCR is a yearly registration and fee for interstate motor carriers, private carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies (49 U.S.C. §14504a)
- The fee for a carrier depends on how many commercial motor vehicles it owns or operates, not on revenue. For 2027 it runs from $55 (0 to 2 vehicles) to $54,165 (1,001 or more)
- You register with your base state, which is usually where your principal place of business is, and pay online through the UCR Plan's National Registration System
- Registration for 2027 opened October 1, 2026. You must register and pay before January 1 of the registration year
- After January 1 the fee is still due, and you can face state enforcement action
- UCR is separate from operating authority, IRP and IFTA. Each is its own registration with its own renewal
- The 2027 fees are about 20% higher than the 2026 fees in every bracket
UCR fee by fleet size, 2026 and 2027
| 2026 fee | 2027 fee | |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 2 vehicles (also brokers and leasing companies) | $46 | $55 |
| 3 to 5 vehicles | $138 | $167 |
| 6 to 20 vehicles | $276 | $333 |
| 21 to 100 vehicles | $963 | $1,163 |
| 101 to 1,000 vehicles | $4,592 | $5,548 |
| 1,001 or more vehicles | $44,836 | $54,165 |
Who has to register for UCR?
UCR covers motor carriers, motor private carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies. It is not just for carriers with FMCSA operating authority. A private carrier that hauls its own goods across state lines is covered too. UCR is for interstate operations. UCR's own "Do I need to register?" tool on plan.ucr.gov can check your case. For carriers, the fee depends on the number of commercial motor vehicles. So a single-truck owner-operator pays far less than a large fleet.
How much does UCR cost in 2027?
The 2027 fees took effect October 1, 2026. A carrier with 0 to 2 vehicles pays $55, up from $46 for 2026. That is $9 more, or about 20%. A carrier with 3 to 5 vehicles pays $167, and with 6 to 20 vehicles it pays $333. Brokers and leasing companies pay the smallest fee, $55. The table shows every bracket. The UCR Plan lists these 2027 fees as approved, and it takes its fee numbers from the Federal Register.
When do you register for UCR, and what if you miss it?
Registration for 2027 opened on October 1, 2026. To operate legally, you must complete your UCR registration and pay before January 1 of the registration year. After that date the fee is still due, and a carrier that has not registered can face state enforcement action. Register early so you are not caught without it.
How is UCR different from operating authority and IFTA?
These are three separate systems that new carriers sometimes mix up. Operating authority (MC number) is FMCSA's legal permission to haul for hire. UCR is a yearly registration and fee tied to fleet size, paid to your base state. IFTA is the agreement for reporting multi-state fuel tax. All three need to be current on their own. Being square with one doesn't cover the others.
Related Terms
Related Free Tools
UCR Fee Calculator
See your Unified Carrier Registration fee for 2026 and for 2027, by fleet size, and how much it goes up.
New Authority Checklist
A step-by-step guide to getting your MC number and starting your trucking operation.
CDL & Compliance Deadline Tracker
Track all compliance deadlines in one place with color-coded alerts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UCR registration in trucking?+
UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) is a yearly registration and fee for interstate motor carriers, private carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies. You register with your base state and pay online. The fee for a carrier depends on its number of commercial motor vehicles.
How much is UCR for 2027?+
For 2027, a carrier with 0 to 2 vehicles pays $55. With 3 to 5 vehicles it pays $167, with 6 to 20 it pays $333, and with 21 to 100 it pays $1,163. Larger fleets pay $5,548 (101 to 1,000 vehicles) or $54,165 (1,001 or more). Brokers and leasing companies pay $55.
Is UCR registration required for a single-truck owner-operator?+
Generally yes, if the truck operates in interstate commerce. The fee is the smallest bracket, $55 for 2027. UCR is for interstate operations, so check UCR's "Do I need to register?" tool at plan.ucr.gov if you work only inside one state.
When is UCR due, and how often do you renew?+
You renew every year. Registration for 2027 opened October 1, 2026. You must register and pay before January 1 of the registration year. After that, the fee is still due and you can face state enforcement.
What happens if I miss the UCR deadline?+
The fee is still due after January 1. A carrier that is not registered can face state enforcement action. Register and pay as soon as you can. UCR's help desk can answer questions at 1-833-827-7526.
Where do I pay UCR?+
Register and pay online through the UCR Plan's National Registration System, which you reach from plan.ucr.gov. You register with your base state. For questions, call 1-833-UCR-PLAN (1-833-827-7526) or email helpdesk@ucr.gov.
Do private carriers need to register for UCR?+
Yes, if they operate in interstate commerce. The law covers motor private carriers as well as for-hire carriers, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies (49 U.S.C. §14504a). Their fee depends on their number of commercial motor vehicles.
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This is industry terminology and typical practice. It is not legal or tax advice. Rates, fees, and rules mentioned are general ranges. Confirm the details on your rate confirmation, carrier agreement, or a current official source.