MCS-150 Form: The Most Ignored Form That Could Kill Your DOT Authority

📌 Think updating your MCS-150 doesn’t matter? Think again — skipping this form can suspend your DOT number.

Every trucking company with a DOT number must update their MCS-150 form at least once every 2 years, even if nothing has changed. But most carriers either forget, misunderstand the deadline, or fall for myths. Let’s break it all down.

🔍 What Is the MCS-150?

The MCS-150 (Motor Carrier Identification Report) is a required update for your DOT number. It includes basic information like:

Company name and address

Number of trucks and drivers

Mileage for the previous year

Operating classification

You must update it:

Every 24 months (based on your DOT number)

Whenever your company info changes (address, number of trucks, etc.)

📌 Official FMCSA link: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/updating-your-registration

❌ Common Myths About MCS-150

Myth 1: “If nothing changed, I don’t have to update.”

Truth: Even if your details stayed the same, the update is still required by law.

Myth 2: “I can just do it anytime.”

Truth: It must be done in the correct month, based on your DOT number’s last two digits.

Myth 3: “It’s just a form — no big deal.”

Truth: If not updated, FMCSA will deactivate your DOT number — no loads, no contracts, no operations.

🛠️ How to Check or File Your Update

Go to the FMCSA portal: https://portal.fmcsa.dot.gov

Log in or create an account

Click “Update Registration” and select “Biennial Update (MCS-150)”

🧠 Pro Tip: Use a calendar reminder every year. We recommend filing annually instead of every 2 years to avoid missing it.

🚨 Already late or unsure? We can help file it correctly and get you back in good standing.