If you operate a commercial vehicle in the United States and have a USDOT number, you’re already part of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) system. But did you know that you’re required to update your DOT registration every two years, even if nothing has changed?
This process is called the DOT Biennial Update—and failing to complete it can result in penalties, deactivation of your DOT number, or even out-of-service orders. Here’s what every carrier, owner-operator, and fleet manager needs to know.
What Is DOT Biennial Registration?
The DOT Biennial Update, also known as the MCS-150 update, is a mandatory requirement by the FMCSA. It applies to all entities that operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce, regardless of whether their information has changed.
This means every two years, based on your USDOT number, you must confirm or update your company’s information—including address, number of vehicles, and company operation type.
How to Know When It’s Due
Your biennial update is due every two years, in the month that corresponds to the last digit of your DOT number. Here’s a quick guide:
⦁ If your DOT number ends in 1, your update is due in January
⦁ If it ends in 2, it’s due in February
⦁ … and so on, with 0 due in October
Even if there are no changes, you must still file the update on time.
What Happens If You Miss It?
The FMCSA takes this seriously. Failing to file your biennial update can lead to:
⦁ Deactivation of your DOT number
⦁ Fines up to $1,000 per day (up to $10,000 total)
⦁ Possible suspension of operating authority
Once deactivated, you won’t legally be allowed to operate, which can put your business at a complete standstill.
How to File Your DOT Biennial Update
You can file the MCS-150 update:
With the help of a registration service provider like U.S. Carrier Registration
At U.S. Carrier Registration, we simplify the process to make sure your update is done accurately and on time—no missed deadlines, no errors, no stress.
Who Needs to File a Biennial Update?
You must file if you meet any of the following criteria:
⦁ You operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce
⦁ You have a USDOT number, even if you’re not currently active
⦁ You are a for-hire carrier, private carrier, freight forwarder, or broker
Pro Tip: Keep Records Handy
Before you start your update, have these ready:
⦁ Your USDOT Number
⦁ Updated business address and contact info
⦁ Number and types of vehicles operated
⦁ Total annual mileage
Stay Compliant, Stay on the Road
DOT Biennial Registration isn’t optional—it’s the law. But it doesn’t have to be a hassle.
At U.S. Carrier Registration, we help hundreds of carriers stay compliant with the FMCSA. Whether you’re updating your records or unsure when your update is due, we’re here to assist.
Need Help with Your Biennial Update?
Get in touch today and avoid costly delays.
U.S. Carrier Registration
📍 9169 State St. #1196, Boise, ID 83714
📞 877-544-4387
📧 [email protected]
🌐 https://ucrplans.us