Whether you’re a seasoned motor carrier or a solo owner-operator, DOT compliance is not a one-and-done deal. Sure, getting your USDOT number is the first major milestone—but staying compliant? That’s where the real road trip begins.
The Truth: Compliance Isn’t Static
Obtaining your USDOT number may feel like checking off a big box, and it is. But what many carriers overlook is that maintaining that number involves regular updates, and forgetting one could land you in hot water with the FMCSA.
One of the most critical (and commonly missed) pieces of DOT compliance is filing your MCS-150, also known as the Motor Carrier Identification Report. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), this update is required every two years. Miss it, and you could face penalties—or worse, an inactive USDOT status.
Keeping your USDOT number current is essential for compliance and avoiding costly penalties. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about reviewing and updating your MCS-150 filing.
How to check the status of the MCS-150?
Before submitting an updated MCS-150 form, it is essential to determine when your last update was filed. To determine the current status of your MCS-150, including the last time it was filed, you’ll need to access your USDOT number details through official FMCSA resources or other third-party service providers such as eMCS-150. You can verify the status of your USDOT number through any of the following methods:
1. Check through an MCS-150 filing service provider- eMCS-150
If you prefer a quicker, hassle-free option, you can check your MCS-150 status through trusted service providers like eMCS-150.
- Simply enter your USDOT number, and the system will automatically fill in your existing company information for a fast and easy review.
- eMCS-150 pulls data directly from the FMCSA database, including your last filed MCS-150 date, so you can immediately see whether your status is current or overdue.
This option is ideal if you’re also planning to file or update your MCS-150 and want a streamlined experience.
Check your status and update your MCS-150
2. Use the FMCSA Website
Online via the SAFER portal:
The quickest way to check your MCS-150 status is through the FMCSA’s SAFER (Safety and Fitness Electronic Records) portal. This system provides key details about your company’s safety record and compliance standing.
Just follow these simple steps:
- Go to the FMCSA SAFER website.
- Enter your company name, USDOT number, or MC number in the search field.
- Open your company Snapshot from the search results.
- Look for the field labeled “FMCSA Form Date” on the left side of the report.
Submit an Inquiry: Visit ask.fmcsa.dot.gov, scroll down, and fill out the inquiry form. You can also upload relevant documents. Once submitted, you’ll receive a tracking number.
Live Chat: Access the FMCSA live chat feature through their website for real-time support.
Phone Support: Call the FMCSA helpline at 800-832-5660 to speak directly with a representative.
3. Decode your USDOT Number
Another way to determine your MCS-150 status and the filing schedule is by looking at the last two digits of your USDOT number:
The second-to-last digit indicates whether you file in an odd or even year:
- Odd number = file in odd-numbered years (e.g., 2023, 2025)
- Even number = file in even-numbered years (e.g., 2024, 2026)
The last digit tells you the month your update is due:
1 = January, 2 = February ………………..…, 0 = October
Example:
If your USDOT number ends in “83,” you must file in odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, 2029), and August is your renewal month.
By decoding your USDOT number, you can easily determine both the month and year your next MCS-150 filing is due.
Determine your MCS-150 filing due date
These methods give you a clear way to check your MCS-150 status and stay ahead of compliance deadlines. If the recorded date falls within the required update period, your MCS-150 status is considered active. However, if the date listed is older than two years, your status could be inactive, and you’ll need to promptly file an updated MCS-150 form. Regularly checking your status ensures you file on time, avoid costly fines and penalties, and keep your USDOT number active without interruption.
When to update your MCS-150 Form?
The FMCSA mandates that all motor carriers submit an updated MCS-150 form every two years. The month in which you must file is determined by the last digit of your USDOT number. For instance, if your number ends with a 1, your update is due in January of odd-numbered years; if it ends with a 2, then February of even-numbered years, and so forth. Following this schedule is essential to keep your MCS-150 status active.
Additionally, if your company experiences any major changes, such as updated contact details, adding or removing vehicles, shifts in your operational type, or changes in your business structure, you should promptly file an updated MCS-150 form to ensure your information remains accurate and compliant. You don’t have to wait for your biennial update deadline.
Everything you need to know about Form MCS-150
Why is it important to have an active MCS-150 status?
Your MCS-150 status reflects the current standing of your Motor Carrier Identification Report with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). It indicates whether your company’s information is accurate, current, and in compliance with FMCSA regulations.
Maintaining an active MCS-150 status is crucial for uninterrupted business operations, as it confirms that your carrier meets the safety and regulatory standards set by the FMCSA. To keep your status active, it’s important to submit timely updates and ensure that all information on the MCS-150 form is accurate whenever changes occur.
On the other hand, having an inactive MCS-150 status can create significant obstacles for your business. This status typically occurs when a company fails to update its MCS-150 form on time or submits inaccurate or incomplete information. An inactive status signals non-compliance with FMCSA regulations, which can trigger various negative consequences.
The impact of an inactive status can be serious, harming both your company’s reputation and financial stability. Possible consequences include costly fines and penalties, increased scrutiny from the FMCSA, and in severe cases, suspension or loss of your operating authority.
How to reactivate an inactive MCS-150 Status
If your company’s MCS-150 status becomes inactive due to outdated or missing information, it’s crucial to act quickly to stay compliant with FMCSA regulations and protect your business reputation.
To reactivate your status, you’ll need to submit an updated and accurate MCS-150 form. This can be done conveniently through the FMCSA’s online portal or by using traditional methods like mail, fax, or email, or through a third-party e-filing provider such as eMCS-150. Before submitting, carefully review all information to ensure accuracy and avoid delays. Once the FMCSA reviews and approves your updated form, your MCS-150 status will be restored to active.
How to update your MCS-150 online: A quick and easy guide
What are the MCS-150 filing requirements?
Now that you know how to check your MCS-150 status, it’s equally important to understand the information required when completing the form. To uphold safety and compliance standards, the FMCSA mandates that all carriers and owner-operators provide detailed operational data through the MCS-150. This information helps the DOT effectively monitor and regulate the commercial transportation industry.
When filling out your MCS-150, you’ll need to include:
- Your USDOT number
- Legal business name
- Number of vehicles in operation
- MC number (if applicable)
- Type of operation (e.g., carrier, broker, freight forwarder)
- Hazardous or non-hazardous materials classification
- Annual carrier mileage
- Cargo types you transport
Why is it important to file your MCS-150 on time?
One of the most common reasons motor carriers fall out of compliance with FMCSA regulations is missing the deadline to update their MCS-150 form. But falling behind on your filing doesn’t just result in a compliance issue—it can directly impact your ability to operate.
The MCS-150 is designed to help the FMCSA monitor safety and operational data for motor carriers, which is why timely updates are taken so seriously. Failing to file on time can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Deactivation of your USDOT number
- Fines of up to $1,000 per day
- Loss of operating authority
- Business disruptions or shutdowns
In short, neglecting to update your MCS-150 can jeopardize your entire operation. Fortunately, staying compliant is simple, as long as you know when and how to check your filing status and submit your updates.
Avoid fines and stay road-ready—update your MCS-150 before it’s too late.
Update Form MCS-150 now
Update MCS-150 and keep your USDOT Number active
Staying compliant with FMCSA regulations is critical for keeping your USDOT number active and your trucking business running smoothly. Now that you know how to check your MCS-150 status—whether through the FMCSA’s SAFER portal, your USDOT number, or a trusted filing service such as eMCS-150– you’re one step closer to maintaining your compliance and avoiding costly penalties.
At eMCS-150, we understand that running a successful trucking operation involves juggling many responsibilities. From managing day-to-day logistics to keeping up with safety regulations, it’s easy for biennial updates to slip through the cracks. That’s why our platform is designed to make your MCS-150 filing fast, accurate, and stress-free. Whether you need help identifying your update deadline, correcting outdated information, or reactivating an inactive status, our experienced team and Live agents are here to guide you every step of the way.
