If you're a trucker, fleet owner, or freight business operator, you've probably come across the term MCS-150 Biennial Update Form—maybe on a compliance checklist or through an FMCSA notice in your inbox.

It sounds bureaucratic. And honestly, it is. But here's the truth: Filing your MCS-150 form on time isn't just paperwork—it's the law. Failing to do so could cost you your USDOT number, your operating authority, and a chunk of your wallet.

Let's break down what this form actually is, who needs to file it, and why skipping it isn't worth the risk.

What Is the MCS-150 Biennial Update Form?

The MCS-150 is a data form used by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to collect current information about your business. It includes your:

  • Company name and address
  • Number of vehicles and drivers
  • Types of cargo hauled
  • Safety certifications
  • Mileage and operating status

This form is part of what's called the Unified Registration System (URS)—a federal database that tracks all registered commercial carriers. By submitting the MCS-150, you're telling the FMCSA that your information is accurate and up to date.

The keyword here is biennial, which means every two years. Even if none of your information has changed, you're still required to file it.

So, Do You Need to File It?

If you have a USDOT number, the short answer is yes.

Whether you're a solo owner-operator running a single rig or managing a small fleet hauling across state lines, you're expected to file the MCS-150 Biennial Update Form.

There's no exception based on how big or small your operation is. This includes:

  • For-hire carriers
  • Private carriers
  • Interstate AND intrastate carriers, depending on your state
  • Hazmat carriers
  • Brokers and freight forwarders with DOT numbers

Even if you're temporarily out of service or operating minimally, if your USDOT number is active, you must comply.

When Are You Supposed to File It?

Timing matters. Your filing deadline is based on your USDOT number - specifically, the second-to-last digit in it.

Here's the breakdown:

  • If your next-to-last digit is a 1, your filing month is January
  • If it's a 2, then it's February
  • And so on, through December

So, for example:

USDOT number 3456789 → next-to-last digit is 8 → your update is due in August, every two years.

Still confused? FMCSA has a lookup tool to help, but here's the bottom line: Know your number. Know your deadline.

What Happens If You Don't File?

Here's where it gets serious.

Failing to file the MCS-150 Biennial Update Form on time can lead to:

  • Deactivation of your USDOT number
  • Revocation of operating authority
  • Fines up to $1,000 per day, with a cap at $10,000
  • A hit to your safety rating or audit record

And even worse? You could lose jobs or broker contracts without knowing why—many brokers check DOT status before assigning loads.

Reactivating your DOT number after deactivation isn't as easy as sending an email. It could take days—or even weeks—of paperwork, delay, and money.

How to File the MCS-150 Biennial Update Form

Filing doesn't have to be a headache. You've got a few options:

  1. Online via the FMCSA Portal

    This is the fastest and preferred method. It's free and updates your record immediately.

  2. By Mail or Fax

    Slower, but still acceptable. Download the form, fill it out, and send it in.

  3. Through a Compliance Service

    If you don't want to deal with the process yourself, third-party services can file on your behalf, especially helpful if you manage multiple vehicles or filings.

    To file online, have your:

    • USDOT number
    • Company EIN or SSN
    • Updated company data (mileage, driver count, etc.)

    The form typically takes about 15–30 minutes to complete.

Local Compliance Still Matters

While the MCS-150 Biennial Update is a federal requirement, some states piggyback off FMCSA data to issue their credentials (like state DOT numbers, IRP registration, or intrastate permits).

If you're based in states like California, Texas, or Florida, missing your MCS-150 update might trigger compliance issues locally as well. It can affect your IRP plates, IFTA filings, or safety audits in those jurisdictions.

Being proactive on the federal level keeps you clean on the local level, too.

What If Nothing Changed in My Operation?

Doesn't matter—you still have to file. Even if your fleet size, address, drivers, and operations haven't changed a bit, the FMCSA wants you to reconfirm those details.

Think of it as a "Still good?" check-in. If you skip it, your silence equals non-compliance in the FMCSA's eyes.

Final Thoughts: Stay Current, Stay Compliant

The MCS-150 Biennial Update Form might not feel urgent… until it is. Waiting until your number is deactivated or your contracts get held up because of a “compliance issue” isn't worth the stress.

Being a responsible carrier means keeping your records updated—even when nothing seems to have changed.

Finally, if you find it time-consuming or have any difficulty updating your records, you can consult compliance service agents like USDOTServices. They will get your records updated.

Because in the world of trucking, staying compliant is just as important as staying on schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What is the MCS-150 Biennial Update Form?

    The MCS-150 is a mandatory form filed with the FMCSA every two years to update your carrier information tied to your USDOT number.

  2. Who is required to file the MCS-150 update?

    Anyone with an active USDOT number—whether you're a single truck owner-operator or a large fleet—must file the MCS-150 form biennially.

  3. How do I know when my MCS-150 is due?

    Your due month is based on the second-to-last digit of your USDOT number. For example, if it's 4, your update is due in April.

  4. What happens if I don't file the MCS-150 update on time?

    Failure to file may lead to deactivation of your USDOT number, revocation of operating authority, and fines of up to $10,000.

  5. Can I file the MCS-150 form online?

    Yes, the FMCSA provides an online portal that allows for fast, free submission and immediate updates to your registration details.