Red flags when buying an MC: how to avoid scams
Demand for aged authorities has attracted scammers, and FMCSA has cracked down on improper sales. Here’s how to tell a real company sale from one that can cost you your money or your authority.
Deals that break FMCSA rules
- “Buy just the MC number.” Numbers can’t be sold outside a legitimate corporate transaction. FMCSA said in March 2026 that it will deactivate improperly transferred numbers.
- Leasing someone’s authority so you can run under their name.
- A sole proprietor selling their USDOT number. It belongs to the person and can’t go with a sale.
- A seller who tells you to keep their name, phone and email on FMCSA records after closing.
Payment red flags
- Pressure to wire money, or pay by Zelle, Cash App, gift cards or crypto, directly to the seller.
- A large non-refundable deposit before you have even seen the USDOT number.
- “Another buyer is ready today,” used to rush you.
- No written purchase agreement.
Use licensed escrow. With MCDOT Sales, deposits and closing funds are held by Escrow.com, never by us or the seller.
Listing red flags
- A refusal to share the USDOT or MC number even after you sign an NDA.
- Numbers that don’t match SAFER, such as a different grant date, name, inspections or crash count.
- Insurance cancellations or long lapses on L&I.
- A price far below similar listings.
- Ads in social media groups with no company, address or agreement behind them.
How to protect yourself
- Verify everything on SAFER and L&I. See the SAFER guide.
- Confirm the seller owns the LLC or corporation, using its formation documents and operating agreement.
- Run the due diligence checklist.
- Pay only through licensed escrow.
- Update FMCSA records with the new officers right after closing.
- Have an attorney review the agreement.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to buy an MC number online?
Not by itself. FMCSA prohibits selling, buying or leasing USDOT and MC numbers outside a legitimate corporate transaction. You can legally buy the company that holds them.
How do I know a seller is real?
Check the company’s records on SAFER, confirm ownership with its formation documents, and pay only through a licensed escrow service.
Next step
Every MCDOT Sales deal uses an NDA, escrow and a written agreement.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Have your own attorney review any purchase agreement.