CA Number Registration

Any motor carrier operating commercial vehicles in California must obtain a California Motor Carrier Permit Number (CA#) issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (CA DMV).

**Who Must Register** Any motor carrier operating commercial vehicles in California — whether California-based or an out-of-state carrier making pickups or deliveries in California. This requirement applies regardless of whether the carrier holds a USDOT number.

**When Registration Is Required** The CA# must be obtained before operating in California. Operating without a valid CA# can result in citations and out-of-service orders at California weigh stations. Registration must be current and displayed in the vehicle.

**Relationship to the Motor Carrier Permit (MCP)** The CA# and the Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) are related but separate requirements issued by the same agency. Both may be required depending on the type of commercial vehicle operation. A bundle option (CA# + MCP) is available for $300 total — saving $100 versus ordering separately.

Registration is processed through California DMV. Turnaround depends on state processing times.