FMCSA’s New ID Verification: What Trucking Companies Need to Know

Fraud crackdown or red tape headache? Starting April 1, 2025, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rolled out a new identity verification process for all new motor carrier applicants, and it's already making waves across the industry.

At Great Plains Transportation Services, Inc., we help carriers navigate the complex world of FMCSA registration and authority. Here’s what you need to know about this big shift and how it could affect your operations.

What’s Changed?

As part of a sweeping anti-fraud initiative, FMCSA now requires all new applicants to verify their identity using a government-issued photo ID and a real-time selfie via IDEMIA, a security technology provider. The new process also includes stricter address validation to prevent fake or virtual business locations from slipping through the cracks.

Think of it as the DOT equivalent of airport security: show your ID, take a selfie, prove you’re real, and only then can your application move forward.

Fraud Takes a Hit — So Do Approval Rates

The early numbers speak volumes.

In April, over half of all new motor carrier applications failed to make it past the first approval stage; a dramatic drop from the usual 60–65% approval rate to just 30%. But here’s the kicker: the number of total applications hasn’t decreased. Legitimate carriers are still applying. The fraudsters and incomplete filings are hitting a wall.

Why Authority Grants Haven’t Dropped (Yet)

If you’ve been watching the numbers and wondering why FMCSA is still granting new authorities, don’t be fooled. The April approvals were largely from applications submitted before the ID checks went live. The real decline is expected in May and June, as the new verification rules take full effect.

What It Means for You

This crackdown is good news for honest carriers. It helps level the playing field and keeps fraudsters out. But there are a few things to watch:

• Be tech-ready. You’ll need a decent camera and a smooth upload process to complete the ID step. FMCSA says 99.9% of applicants will pass on the first try, but minor hiccups (like poor lighting or blurry photos) can cause delays.

• Need help? There are 300+ enrollment centers nationwide if you prefer to verify in person.

• Watch your credentials. As new applications get harder to fake, fraudsters may try to hijack existing MC numbers. Protect your DOT login, PIN, and company information.

How We Can Help

At Great Plains, we’re staying ahead of these changes, so you don’t have to. Whether you’re applying for new authority, updating your registration, or monitoring for suspicious activity, our team is here to ensure your filings are clean, correct, and compliant.

Fraud Isn’t Gone — It’s Just Shifting

FMCSA’s efforts are working, but bad actors are already adapting. Industry reports suggest scammers are now targeting dormant or defunct carrier authorities to gain a foothold.

Stay vigilant. And if you ever see unexpected changes to your carrier records, reach out! We’ll help you make sense of what’s happening and take action fast.

Have questions about the new verification process? Need help with your MC number or registration?
Contact Great Plains Transportation Services, Inc. — we're your partner in compliance, from application to activation and beyond.