UCR Registration: FAQs

Whether you like it or not, the deadline for renewing your UCR registration is fast approaching. We know it can be confusing, but luckily for you, your friends at Truck Services of North America are here to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about UCR registration. So if you’ve got a question, hold on to it for a minute, because we’re probably about to answer it for you!

FAQs

What is UCR registration?

Good question, and even though we’ve answered it 3600 times and explained exactly what UCR registration is in a previous blog about the opening of the UCR registration period, we’ll answer it one more time—just for you.

UCR registration is mandatory under the UCRA, or Unified Carrier Registration Agreement, and is regulated by the federal government. Typically, the registration is only for vehicles that travel interstate, and motor carriers are required to pay fees depending on the number of vehicles they need to be registered. Although, some states do not participate in the program, and some have a program for intrastate only carriers, like Georgia.

Who has to register under the UCRA?

All motor carriers operating in these states must register under the UCR program. If you do not operate in any of the states listed, then guess what, you don’t have to worry about it! If you operate intrastate only or under the PRISM program, you’re also not required to register.

Note: If you operate intrastate in Georgia, you must register with the state, which has separate UCR filing requirements.

When do I have to register for UCR?

Well, technically you don’t have to register ever if you don’t want to. But if you want to be, you know, on the road legally, then it’s probably in your best interest to register on time. When is on time? You’ve got until the end of the year to make sure you have all your trucks paid for and registered—so don’t wait until the last minute!

Why do I have to register?

That’s an easy one, it’s because the government is out to get you and take your money. We’re obviously kidding (or are we?) but it sure seems that way sometimes. In reality, the reason you have to pay for UCR registration is that the roads don't fix themselves, and the funding from HVUT and UCR fees is ideally supposed to go towards fixing the roads (although we've all seen how well that works). So basically, you pay because you have to, and unfortunately there's no way around it!

Do I have to pay a fine if I’m required to register and don’t?

Of course, you do. If you operate in 2016 without registering for 2016 UCR, you'll be liable for civil penalties. The board of UCR directors is given the authority to determine non-compliance through bill of lading audits, compliance reviews, and roadside inspections. So if you don’t get your jollies from paying fines, we strongly suggest registering and doing so on time.

I just don’t have a clue. Can you help me with this?

Not to worry friend, of course, we can—that’s exactly what we’re here for. Just give us a call at 803.386.0320, and we’ll help you take that pesky UCR registration of your to-do list, as well as answer any of your UCR-related questions that we didn't cover. And remember, we also offer lots of other trucking services, so take a look and let us know what you need!