FMCSA Launches Phase 2 of MOTUS System in 2026, Replacing URS and Portal
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will open Phase 2 of its MOTUS registration system to all users in 2026, replacing the Unified Registration System (URS) and the FMCSA Portal. The portal currently serves as a single entry point for motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, and authorized users to manage registrations, update company information, access crash and inspection data, and interact with other FMCSA systems.
System Transition and Preparation Guidance
FMCSA announced the transition in the Federal Register, urging motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders to prepare for mandatory use of MOTUS for new and routine filings. Both FMCSA and third-party companies are encouraging early readiness ahead of the unspecified 2026 launch date.
MOTUS aims to streamline registration processes across FMCSA services. Carriers currently relying on URS and the Portal will need to migrate, ensuring compliance with updated access protocols.
Broader FMCSA Enforcement and Safety Updates
In related regulatory developments, FMCSA has issued new guidance addressing driver coercion into violating safety regulations, including requests to breach parts 356, 360, or 365-379 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The guidance prohibits motor carriers from withholding business, taking adverse employment actions, or threatening drivers for refusing such requests. Drivers are advised to familiarize themselves with FMCSRs to identify and object to coercive practices.
This follows FMCSA’s crackdown on electronic logging device (ELD) providers, emphasizing enforcement of hours-of-service rules.
CVSA Roadcheck Highlights Vehicle Out-of-Service Trends
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Roadcheck, the world’s largest targeted enforcement event for commercial motor vehicles, inspected nearly 15 trucks and motorcoaches per minute across North America during its 72-hour 2025 event. Across 56,178 inspections, CVSA reported an 18.1% vehicle out-of-service (OOS) rate.
Early 2026 Roadcheck data shows Day 1 with substantially higher OOS rates, with 496 OOS orders already impacting carriers’ FMCSA Safety Measurement System scores. Days 2 and 3 will further influence Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores.