Getting your USDOT number is the first step to operating legally as a motor carrier. But keeping that registration current is just as important.
FMCSA requires carriers to update their information through a filing called the MCS-150. While it’s a relatively simple form, it plays a critical role in maintaining an active operating status and avoiding unnecessary violations.
Here’s what carriers need to know about the MCS-150 and how to stay on top of the requirement.
What Information Is Included on the MCS-150 Form?
The MCS-150 captures key details about your operation, including your business name and address, number of vehicles, driver count, types of cargo hauled, and miles traveled.
FMCSA uses this information to maintain accurate carrier records, calculate safety metrics, and support audit targeting and enforcement across the industry.
Because this data feeds into federal safety systems, it’s important that everything reported is complete and kept up to date.
Who Is Required to File an MCS-150?
Any entity that holds a USDOT number and operates commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce must file the MCS-150. This includes:
- For-hire carriers
- Private carriers
- Owner-operators
The requirement applies whether you’re hauling freight, passengers, or hazardous materials.
Brokers and freight forwarders are exempt from the biennial update requirement, though they must still report changes to their registration information using a different form.
When Is the MCS-150 Due?
There are two situations that trigger an MCS-150 filing.
The first is your biennial update, which is required every two years. Your filing deadline is based on the last two digits of your USDOT number. The second-to-last digit determines whether you file in odd or even years, and the last digit indicates the month your update is due.
For example, if your USDOT number ends in 42, you would file in February of every even-numbered year.
This update is required even if nothing about your operation has changed.
The second trigger is any change to your business. If your address changes, you add or remove vehicles, or your cargo classifications shift, you’re required to file an updated MCS-150 within 30 days.
What Happens If You Miss Your MCS-150 Filing?
Failing to keep your MCS-150 current can lead to several serious compliance issues, including:
- Deactivation of your USDOT number. If you miss your biennial update, FMCSA can deactivate your registration, which means you’re no longer authorized to operate.
- Out-of-service orders. Operating with a deactivated USDOT number can result in being placed out of service during a roadside inspection.
- Civil penalties. FMCSA may assess fines of up to $1,000 per day for failure to file, with a maximum penalty of $10,000.
In addition, outdated or inaccurate MCS-150 information can affect your Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores, which may impact audit risk and insurance evaluations.
How to Complete Your MCS-150 Update
Filing is free and can be completed online through the FMCSA Portal, which now handles biennial updates and registration changes in one centralized system.
You’ll need your USDOT PIN to submit the update. If you don’t have it, you can request one through FMCSA’s SAFER system.
Paper submissions are still accepted, but they take significantly longer to process. If you’re filing close to a deadline, online filing is the fastest and most reliable option to avoid penalties or deactivation.
Don’t Let It Slip Through the Cracks
The MCS-150 is one of those requirements that’s easy to forget until it becomes a problem.
Knowing when your biennial update is due and staying on top of changes that require an interim filing can help keep your registration active and your operation compliant.
If you’re unsure when your next filing is due or whether a recent change requires an update, US Compliance Services can help. Contact our team today to make sure your registration stays current and your business stays moving.
