WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced a significant modernization step: beginning September 30, 2025, the agency will no longer accept paper payments—including checks and money orders—for any fee-based transactions.

This transition reflects the federal government’s effort to streamline services, strengthen security, and improve efficiency for the motor carrier industry. It also aligns with White House Executive Order 14247: Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account, which directs agencies to eliminate outdated paper-based financial processes.

Key Changes Coming

• No More Paper Payments: After September 30, 2025, FMCSA will no longer process checks or money orders. Any paper payments received will be returned, which could delay services.
• Electronic Payments Required: All transactions will require secure debit or credit card payments submitted online.
• Insurance Filings: For financial responsibility and insurance-related fees, carriers should continue to follow the instructions provided on their monthly invoices.
• Operating Authority and Registration Fees: For applications, reinstatements, legal name changes, and other registration-related fees, entities should use the FMCSA registration website.
• Paper Applications Still Require Card Info: If submitting a paper form, applicants must complete the credit card section before mailing.

Why the Change?

FMCSA’s decision to move away from paper transactions is part of a broader federal initiative to modernize payment systems. Electronic payments provide several key advantages:

• Speed: Transactions are processed faster, reducing turnaround time for carriers.
• Security: E-payments minimize risks associated with lost or stolen checks.
• Efficiency: Electronic systems reduce errors and the administrative burden on both carriers and FMCSA staff.

“By modernizing how payments are collected, FMCSA is securing the future,” the agency noted in its announcement. “Electronic payments offer faster, safer, and more efficient service to the industry.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I send a check after September 30, 2025?
It will not be processed and will be returned, which may delay services.

Are there any exceptions?
The only exception is for paper applications—these must include completed debit or credit card information before submission.

What payment methods are accepted?
FMCSA will accept debit and credit cards via secure online platforms.

Where can I get help?
The FMCSA Contact Center is available at 1-800-832-5660 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) to support carriers transitioning to electronic payments.

What It Means for PMTA Members

For Pennsylvania carriers, this change means adapting business practices now to avoid compliance delays later. Whether paying operating authority fees, reinstatements, or insurance filings, carriers must transition to electronic payments ahead of the September 30 deadline.

PMTA encourages members to:

• Review current payment processes to identify transactions still handled with paper checks.
• Train staff responsible for compliance and billing on FMCSA’s electronic payment systems.
• Contact FMCSA directly for assistance to avoid last-minute issues.

📌 At a Glance: FMCSA E-Payments Transition

• Effective Date: September 30, 2025
• What’s Ending: No paper payments (checks or money orders) accepted
• What’s Required: Debit or credit card payments online
• Exceptions: Paper applications must include completed credit card section
• Where to Pay:
  • Registration-related fees → FMCSA Registration Website
  • Insurance filings → Follow instructions on monthly invoice
• Help Available: FMCSA Contact Center – 1-800-832-5660

👉 Member Call to Action:
Prepare now for FMCSA’s e-payment transition. Update your processes, notify your staff, and make the switch early to avoid delays.