Where Is the DOT Number on a Tire? How to Find and Read It

What the DOT Number Is and Why It Matters

The DOT (Department of Transportation) number is a code molded into every tire sold in the United States. It identifies the tire's manufacturer, production plant, size, and manufacturing date. It's effectively the tire's serial number.

NHTSA uses DOT codes to define recall scope - tire recalls specify affected DOT code ranges. If your DOT code falls within the recall range, your tire is affected. Without knowing your DOT code, you can't determine recall status or file warranty claims accurately.

• DOT codes are federally required on all tires sold in the US
• Used for: recall identification, age verification, warranty registration, defect tracking
• NHTSA recalls specify affected DOT ranges - your code determines if you're affected

Where to Find the DOT Number on the Tire

The DOT number is molded into the sidewall of the tire. It may be on the outward-facing side, the inward-facing side, or both. A complete DOT number (ending in the 4-digit week/year code) is required on only one side - which is why you may need to look at both sides to find the complete code.

Use a flashlight and, if necessary, look from below the wheel well or use a phone camera to capture it. The raised lettering begins with 'DOT' and is typically near the rim bead area on the lower sidewall.

• Look near the rim bead area on the lower sidewall - both inward and outward facing
• Full DOT code (with week/year) may only be on the inward-facing side
• Use flashlight - the molded lettering can be subtle in low light
• Use phone camera: photograph both sides from below the wheel well
• Raised lettering format: DOT [2 chars] [2 chars] [4 chars] [4 digit date]

How to Read the DOT Code

DOT numbers follow a consistent format. Understanding each section helps you interpret your tire's manufacturing details:

• DOT - prefix indicating compliance with DOT standards
• Plant code (2 chars) - identifies the specific factory where the tire was made
• Tire size code (2 chars) - manufacturer-specific size code
• Optional code (up to 4 chars) - brand-specific additional info
• Date code (4 digits) - WWYY format: week and year of manufacture (e.g., 3422 = week 34, 2022)
• Example: DOT WT31 LMCR 3422 - manufactured week 34, 2022, at plant WT in size/type LMCR

Photograph It Now - Before You Need It

DOT numbers are nearly impossible to read once tires are dirty or the vehicle is in a normal operating position. The best time to photograph DOT numbers is right after installation - when the tires are clean and accessible.

Bawte stores DOT numbers permanently. Photograph once at installation, enter in Bawte, and your tire's recall lookup, age verification, and warranty registration are handled automatically going forward.