DOT means the tire meets or exceeds Department of Transportation's safety standards.

"MA" is the code number assigned by DOT to the manufacturing plant.

"L9" is the tire size; in this case a P195/75R14.

"ABCD" is a group of up to four symbols, optional with the manufacturer, to identify the brand or other significant characteristics of the tire.

"036" means the tire was made during the 3rd week of 1996. The first two numbers designates the week, the last number the year.