The DOT biennial update explained
The biennial update is the MCS-150 filed again every 24 months. Each motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must file it by the last day of a month set by its USDOT number. Missing it exposes you to penalties and deactivation of the USDOT number (49 CFR 390.19T(b)).
Who has to file
Under the federal rule, the carriers and providers that file an MCS-150, MCS-150B or MCS-150C (49 CFR 390.19T(a)):
- Motor carriers operating in interstate commerce
- Intrastate carriers that need a hazardous materials safety permit
- Intermodal equipment providers
Many states require intrastate carriers to hold a USDOT number too. If you operate only within one state, check that state's rules.
When
Before you start operating, and then every 24 months by the last day of your filing month. The last digit of your USDOT number sets the month and the next-to-last digit sets odd or even years. See the full schedule or look up your number.
What happens if you miss it
The regulation says a carrier that fails to complete the biennial update is subject to civil penalties and deactivation of its USDOT number (49 CFR 390.19T(b)(4)). A deactivated number can stop you operating legally until you file. The missed update guide covers what to do.
FMCSA has temporarily suspended enforcement of biennial updates, and the inactivation of USDOT numbers for missing them, while carriers move to Motus. Carriers whose update was due on or after June 1, 2026 get extra time. The update is still required. (FMCSA notice, last updated September 10, 2026; checked September 30, 2026.)
How to file
Online, free, in Motus. Follow the step-by-step guide.
Questions
Is the biennial update the same as the MCS-150?
Yes. The biennial update is the MCS-150 (or MCS-150B or MCS-150C) filed again every 24 months to keep your registration current.
What if nothing has changed?
You still file on schedule. The update confirms your information is current, even if nothing has changed.
Does the Motus pause mean I can skip it?
No. FMCSA paused enforcement and inactivation for updates due on or after June 1, 2026 during the Motus transition, but it says the update is still required.
Related
- MCS-150 due dates by USDOT number
The full schedule: which month and which years, with worked examples.
- How to update your MCS-150 online in Motus
Log in, claim your USDOT number and submit the biennial update. Free.
- The MCS-150 form: which version and what it asks
MCS-150, MCS-150B or MCS-150C, and the details to have ready.
- Missed your MCS-150 update?
What happens to your USDOT number and how to get current.
- Biennial update scams: how to spot them
Letters and emails that charge for a free filing, and how to check.