PUCO Registration

Carriers operating commercial motor vehicles in Ohio for intrastate commerce must register with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). This is separate from federal USDOT registration and is an Ohio-specific state requirement.

**Who Must Register** Both Ohio-based carriers and out-of-state carriers conducting intrastate hauls (origin and destination both within Ohio) with commercial motor vehicles must hold PUCO registration. For-hire carriers, private carriers, and household goods movers operating intrastate in Ohio are subject to this requirement.

**Penalties for Non-Compliance** Operating in Ohio without proper PUCO registration may result in fines, citations, and out-of-service orders. PUCO enforcement personnel conduct roadside checks and audits.

**Separate from Interstate Authority** PUCO registration does not replace or substitute for federal operating authority (MC Number) or USDOT registration. Interstate carriers operating in Ohio must maintain both federal authority and PUCO registration for any intrastate movements within Ohio.

Registration is submitted directly to the Ohio PUCO. Processing times are determined by the state.