When and How to File the MCS-150: A Guide for Motor Carriers

Overview

The Motor Carrier Identification Report, commonly known as Form MCS-150, is a vital compliance requirement for all carriers regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Whether you're starting operations, updating business details, or maintaining regulatory compliance, knowing when and how to file the MCS-150 is essential. This article explains who must file, what information is required, when updates are necessary, how to file, and how Foley can help keep you compliant.

Who Must File an MCS-150 Form?

The MCS-150 must be filed by:

• All motor carriers subject to FMCSA jurisdiction, including:

  • Interstate for-hire carriers

  • Private motor carriers

  • Hazardous materials (hazmat) carriers

• New applicants applying for a U.S. DOT Number

• Existing carriers needing to update their registration data or comply with biennial update requirements

The form must be submitted as part of the Unified Registration System (URS) or via FMCSA’s online portal depending on your operating status.

What Triggers an MCS-150 Filing?

You are required to file or update the MCS-150 in any of the following situations:

• Initial DOT Number registration (e.g., when starting operations)

• Biennial update (every two years, due in the month and year based on your DOT Number)

• Changes in company information, such as:

  • Legal name or DBA

  • Business address

  • Number of power units or drivers

  • Commodities transported

  • Carrier operation status (interstate vs intrastate, for-hire vs private)

• Reactivation of authority after voluntary or involuntary revocation

• Transfer of ownership or control of the company

Important:

Failure to file a biennial update can result in deactivation of your USDOT Number and civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day (maximum $10,000).

What Information Is Required on the MCS-150?

When filing the MCS-150, you'll need to provide detailed and accurate information including:

• Company information:

  • Legal name, DBA name, and mailing address

  • EIN or SSN (if applicable)

  • Contact information

• Operational details:

  • Carrier operation type (e.g., for-hire, private, exempt)

  • Hazardous materials classification (if applicable)

  • Cargo types transported

• Vehicle and driver data:

  • Number of CDL and non-CDL drivers

  • Number of vehicles operated (by type and operation status)

• Mileage reporting:

  • Vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in the most recent 12-month period

• Certification and signature:

  • Signed attestation by a company officer or representative certifying accuracy

How to File the MCS-150

Online (Preferred)

1. Visit the FMCSA Registration site: https://portal.fmcsa.dot.gov

2. Log in or create a portal account.

3. Select “Update USDOT Number” or “New Registration.”

4. Complete and submit the MCS-150 form online.

By Mail or Fax

• Download the PDF form from FMCSA’s website.

• Fill out the form manually.

• Mail or fax it to the address or number listed on the form.

Note: Paper filings can result in delays. Online filing is faster and confirms submission.

How Foley Can Help

Staying compliant with FMCSA rules is critical—and Foley makes it easier:

MCS-150 Management Services

• Biennial update tracking and submission: We monitor your update deadlines and file on your behalf to prevent DOT number deactivation.

• Change management: Whether you’ve moved offices or expanded your fleet, Foley updates your MCS-150 to reflect changes.

• Initial DOT registration: For new carriers, we handle the MCS-150 filing as part of the DOT Number setup process.

Platform Support

• Foley’s DOT compliance platform keeps your records up to date and alerts you of upcoming filing requirements, helping you avoid fines or disruptions in operating authority.

Expert Guidance

• Have questions about your status or what needs to be filed? Our compliance specialists are just a call or message away.

Regulatory References

• 49 CFR § 390.19 – Motor Carrier Identification Report (MCS-150) filing requirements

• FMCSA Registration Requirements: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration

• Biennial Update Schedule: Based on the last two digits of your DOT Number

Last updated: May 1, 2025