FMCSA

FMCSA, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, is a United States federal government agency within the Department of Transportation (DOT). It regulates the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) used in interstate commerce, and in some cases intrastate commerce, with the aim of reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

Created in 2000 by the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act, FMCSA assumed responsibility for federal CMV safety programs and oversight of motor carriers, drivers, and vehicle equipment. It coordinates with state transportation and law enforcement agencies to enforce safety rules through inspections, audits, and investigations.

Its mission is to improve CMV safety by developing and enforcing regulations, conducting compliance reviews, and delivering data-driven oversight. Core regulatory areas include hours of service for drivers, commercial driver’s license standards and endorsements, vehicle maintenance and inspections, medical standards for drivers, and safety fitness determinations for carriers.

FMCSA operates enforcement programs and maintains safety data through tools such as the Safety Measurement System (SMS) and the Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program. It administers the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, operates the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners, and maintains the Medical Certification process for drivers.

The agency works with state partners, other federal agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and industry stakeholders to promote safer CMV operations. Leadership is provided by an Administrator in Washington, D.C., with regional and field offices supported by staff across the country.