Deactivation
The USDOT number is switched off until you file. Brokers and shippers see it as inactive.
MCS-150 update
MCS-150 biennial update: when it is due and how to file
Every company with a USDOT number has to update its MCS-150 every two years, even when nothing changed. Miss it and FMCSA deactivates the number. Your USDOT number tells you the month and year it is due.
SamScheduling AgentTakes every load in your system and finds the optimal assignment across your fleet.
TommyTracking AgentProvides live ETAs on every active load and flags exceptions before they become problems.
ArunaAsset Management AgentTracks every tractor, trailer, and driver, and flags issues before they turn into firefights.
Find your due month
The last digit of your USDOT number sets the month. The next-to-last digit sets the year: odd means odd-numbered years, even means even-numbered years. A number ending in 34 is due in April of odd years.
| Last digit | Month due |
|---|---|
| 1 | January |
| 2 | February |
| 3 | March |
| 4 | April |
| 5 | May |
| 6 | June |
| 7 | July |
| 8 | August |
| 9 | September |
| 0 | October |
File by the last day of the month. The lookup shows the date of your last MCS-150.
How to file
Filing is free on FMCSA’s own site. Anyone who charges you for the form itself is a third party.
- 01.
Check your last filing
Look up your carrier and read the Last MCS-150 date. Look it up here.
- 02.
Gather your numbers
Power units, drivers, cargo classes, and the miles you ran in the last calendar year.
- 03.
Update online
Sign in to the FMCSA Portal and submit the biennial update. A paper form must reach FMCSA by the due date.
- 04.
Confirm it posted
Search your USDOT number again after a few days and check the new MCS-150 date.
What happens if you miss it
FMCSA deactivates the USDOT number, and a deactivated number cannot legally run.
Civil penalties
Up to $1,000 a day, capped at $10,000, for failing to file.
File even if you stopped
The update is required even when the company has stopped interstate work or closed.
Questions
How often do I file the MCS-150?
Every 24 months, on the schedule your USDOT number sets, and whenever your company details change.
Does it cost anything?
No. The MCS-150 update is free on FMCSA’s site.
What if nothing changed?
File anyway. FMCSA requires the update every two years even when every answer is the same.
How do I know when I last filed?
Look up your USDOT number. The record shows your last MCS-150 date and the mileage you reported.
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