FMCSA Raises 2027 UCR Fees 20% for Carriers and Brokers

FMCSA has finalized an average 20% increase in Unified Carrier Registration fees for the 2027 registration year and later years. Commercial Carrier Journal updated its coverage September 2 after the final rule appeared in the Federal Register. The rule applies to motor carriers, private carriers of property, brokers, freight forwarders and leasing companies subject to the UCR Agreement.

The actual increase depends on fleet size. Operators with up to two commercial vehicles, along with brokers and leasing companies, will pay $55 instead of $46. The largest bracket, covering fleets with 1,001 or more vehicles, rises from $44,836 to $54,165. Across the brackets, increases range from $9 to $9,329 per entity. FMCSA says the new rates remain below those charged from 2019 through 2022.

The official final rule confirms an October 1, 2026 effective date and says the higher schedule begins with the 2027 registration year. FMCSA cited a projected $21.79 million funding shortfall. UCR revenue supports participating states' motor-carrier safety and enforcement programs, plus administration of the registration system. The agency received industry objections but concluded the adjustment was required under the governing statute.

Carriers should identify their correct vehicle bracket, budget the new amount and use the official UCR registration portal when the 2027 filing period opens. The change is a registration-cost rule, not a new CDL endorsement, training mandate or roadside operating restriction. Drivers generally will not file on behalf of an employer, but owner-operators responsible for their own authority should confirm who handles UCR compliance and keep proof of registration with their business records.