MCS-150 Biennial Update 2026: Complete Filing Guide & Due Date Calculator

The MCS-150 biennial update is one of the most overlooked compliance requirements for motor carriers—and one of the most consequential when missed. Failure to file can result in fines up to $1,000 per day, USDOT number deactivation, and loss of operating authority. Yet many carriers don't know their due date or even that this filing exists.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the MCS-150 for 2026: how to calculate your exact due date, what information you need to file, step-by-step online filing instructions, and how to avoid the penalties that catch thousands of carriers each year.

What Is the MCS-150 Biennial Update?

The MCS-150 is an FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) form that captures essential information about your motor carrier operation. The "biennial update" refers to the requirement that every motor carrier must update this information every two years, even if nothing has changed.

The MCS-150 form collects information including:

• Company legal name and DBA (doing business as) name
• Principal business address
• Mailing address
• Contact information (phone, email)
• Type of operation (for-hire, private, exempt)
• Cargo types transported
• Number of power units and drivers
• Miles traveled annually
• Hazmat certification status

This information helps FMCSA maintain accurate records of active motor carriers, allocate inspection resources, and conduct safety oversight. It also ensures your USDOT number remains active.

Who Must File the MCS-150?

All motor carriers, freight forwarders, and brokers who have been issued a USDOT number must file the MCS-150 biennial update. This includes:

• For-hire motor carriers (property and passengers)
• Private motor carriers transporting their own goods
• Exempt for-hire carriers
• Freight forwarders
• Brokers
• Intermodal equipment providers
• Hazmat carriers

Even if your trucks only operate intrastate, if you have a USDOT number, you must file the biennial update.

How to Calculate Your MCS-150 Due Date

Your MCS-150 due date is determined by your USDOT number using a simple two-step calculation. This is not a random date—it's mathematically derived from your specific DOT number.

Step 1: Determine Your Filing Year (Odd or Even)

Look at the next-to-last digit of your USDOT number:

Step 2: Determine Your Filing Month

Look at the last digit of your USDOT number:

2026 MCS-150 Due Dates by Month

If your USDOT number ends in an even next-to-last digit, here are your 2026 filing months:

How to File Your MCS-150 Online (Step-by-Step)

The fastest and easiest way to file your MCS-150 biennial update is through the FMCSA online portal. The process takes approximately 15-20 minutes and provides instant confirmation.

Step 1: Go to the FMCSA Portal

Visit FMCSA's registration update page and select "Update Your Registration."

Step 2: Log In or Create an Account

You'll need a login.gov account to access the portal. If you don't have one, you can create it during the process. You'll need:

• Your USDOT number
• Your PIN (mailed when you first registered)
• An email address for verification

Step 3: Review Your Current Information

The portal will display your current information on file. Review each section carefully:

• Legal name and DBA
• Business address
• Mailing address
• Contact information
• Operation classification
• Cargo types
• Fleet size

Step 4: Update Any Changed Information

Make corrections to any outdated information. Common updates include:

• New business address
• Updated fleet size (number of power units)
• Changes in cargo types
• Updated driver count
• New contact email or phone

Step 5: Certify and Submit

After reviewing all information, you'll certify that the information is accurate and submit. You'll receive immediate confirmation with a timestamp—save this for your records.

Information Required for Your MCS-150

Before you start the filing process, gather this information:

MCS-150 Penalties for Late or Missed Filing

The consequences for failing to file your MCS-150 biennial update are severe. FMCSA takes this requirement seriously because outdated carrier information compromises the agency's safety oversight capabilities.

Financial Penalties

• Civil penalties up to $1,000 per day for operating with an inactive USDOT number
• Penalties can accumulate quickly if non-compliance continues
• Maximum penalties can reach tens of thousands of dollars

USDOT Number Deactivation

If you fail to file your MCS-150 biennial update, FMCSA will deactivate your USDOT number. An inactive USDOT number means:

• You cannot legally operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce
• Your trucks can be placed out of service at roadside inspections
• You cannot obtain or renew operating authority
• You may lose insurance coverage (many policies require active DOT status)

Impact on Operating Authority

If you hold operating authority (MC number), an inactive USDOT number puts your authority at risk. You may need to:

• Reapply for operating authority
• Re-file BOC-3 process agent designation
• Update insurance filings
• Notify shippers and brokers

When to File Updates Outside Your Biennial Cycle

While the biennial update occurs every two years, certain changes require you to update your MCS-150 within 30 days, regardless of where you are in your filing cycle:

Common MCS-150 Filing Mistakes

1. Not Knowing Your Due Date

Problem: Many carriers don't realize their MCS-150 is due until their USDOT is already deactivated.

Solution: Calculate your due date now using the formula above and set calendar reminders for 90, 60, and 30 days before.

2. Waiting Until the Last Minute

Problem: Technical issues, forgotten PINs, or login problems can delay filing past your deadline.

Solution: File in the first week of your due month, not the last day.

3. Not Updating After Changes

Problem: Moving to a new address or changing your legal name but not updating within 30 days.

Solution: File an update immediately after any significant business change—don't wait for your biennial cycle.

4. Lost PIN

Problem: You need your PIN to log in, but you can't find it.

Solution: Request a new PIN through the FMCSA portal. This takes a few business days, so don't wait until your due date.

5. Incorrect Fleet Size

Problem: Reporting outdated power unit counts.

Solution: Before filing, count your current number of power units and drivers. Accurate data helps FMCSA and avoids audit questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the MCS-150 biennial update cost?

The MCS-150 biennial update is free when filed directly through the FMCSA portal. Beware of third-party services that charge fees for this free filing.

Can I file early?

Yes. You can file your biennial update any time during your designated month. Filing early is recommended to avoid last-minute issues.

What if I miss my filing month?

File immediately. FMCSA may begin deactivation proceedings after your filing month passes. The longer you wait, the greater your risk of penalties and USDOT deactivation.

Do I need to file if nothing has changed?

Yes. The biennial update is required even if all your information remains the same. You must log in and certify that your current information is accurate.

How do I check my USDOT status?

Visit the FMCSA SAFER website and enter your USDOT number. Your record will show whether your status is "ACTIVE" or "INACTIVE."

What if my USDOT is already deactivated?

You can reactivate by completing the MCS-150 update. However, reactivation may take time, and you cannot legally operate until your status is active again.

Never Miss Your MCS-150 Deadline

The MCS-150 biennial update is easy to forget—until your USDOT number is deactivated and your trucks are sitting idle. Keeping track of this filing, along with UCR, IFTA, IRP, and Form 2290 deadlines, is a constant challenge for motor carriers.

FleetCollect's Company Compliance Dashboard automatically tracks your MCS-150 due date and sends reminders:

• Automatic due date calculation based on your USDOT number
• Email and dashboard alerts at 90, 60, 30, and 7 days before deadline
• Direct filing links to the FMCSA portal
• Complete compliance calendar for all motor carrier filings
• Audit trail of all your compliance activities