What information is required on a vehicle's identification per DOT regulations?

The correct response emphasizes the importance of identifying the entity responsible for the vehicle's operation, which is vital for regulatory compliance and safety standards governed by DOT regulations. By requiring the company name and the DOT number, the regulations ensure that each commercial vehicle can be traced back to its owner or operator. This aids in accountability and facilitates inspections, safety audits, and compliance checks.

The other options do not fulfill the same regulatory purposes as the correct choice. For instance, while vehicle registration numbers and inspection dates are essential for tracking vehicle compliance with state laws, they lack the broader implications of identifying responsible parties in the transportation network. Similarly, knowing the driver's name and vehicle type is not sufficient for overall regulatory compliance and does not link the vehicle to the legal entity accountable for its operation. Lastly, while insurance provider details are crucial for coverage and liability, they do not directly provide the necessary identification and accountability framework established by DOT for commercial vehicles.