Date: October 2025
Source: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Overview
Every time a motor carrier or regulated entity changes its legal name, address, or any other registration data, it must update its records with both the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) in a timely manner.
In addition, FMCSA requires all entities under its jurisdiction to update their information every two years, regardless of whether changes have occurred or not.
Who Must File an Update
All entities holding a USDOT Number or Operating Authority (MC/FF Number) must comply with this update rule.
Updates are divided into two major categories:
USDOT Number Updates
- Routine Updates
- Biennial Updates
- Inactivation / Deactivation
- Reactivation
- Reapplication after Revocation
Operating Authority (MC/FF) Updates
- Name Change
- Address Change
- Reinstatement
- Revocation
Biennial Updates Explained
The FMCSA mandates that all carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders submit a Biennial Update using the MCS-150 form (or related variations) every 24 months.
Even if a company has no operational changes, has ceased interstate operations, or is no longer active, a Biennial Update must still be filed unless the entity has officially notified FMCSA of its closure.
Failure to submit the update can result in:
- Deactivation of your USDOT Number
- Civil penalties up to $1,000 per day, not exceeding $10,000
The process is free of charge, and FMCSA encourages electronic submissions for faster processing.
How to Determine Your Filing Month
Biennial Updates must be filed every 24 months according to your USDOT Number’s last two digits:
| USDOT Number Ends In | Must File By the Last Day of: |
|---|---|
| 1 | January |
| 2 | February |
| 3 | March |
| 4 | April |
| 5 | May |
| 6 | June |
| 7 | July |
| 8 | August |
| 9 | September |
| 0 | October |
- If the second-to-last digit of your USDOT number is odd, you must file in odd-numbered years.
- If it is even, you must file in even-numbered years.
How to File Your Update
Option 1 – Online (Recommended):
Use the FMCSA Ask Portal at ask.fmcsa.dot.gov.
Upload your completed MCS-150 form and receive a confirmation number by email.
Option 2 – By Fax:
Send your completed forms to (202) 366-3477.
Option 3 – By Mail (Slower Processing):
If submitting by mail, allow enough time for delivery before your due date.
Send completed forms to:
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Attn: Office of Registration
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Room W65-206
Washington, DC 20590
Forms and Descriptions
| Form | Description |
|---|---|
| MCS-150 | Motor Carrier Identification Report (USDOT Number Application) |
| MCS-150B | Combined Motor Carrier Identification and Hazardous Materials Permit Application |
| MCS-150C | Intermodal Equipment Provider Identification Report |
These forms are available for download on the FMCSA website: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov
Important Notes
- FMCSA recommends electronic filing to avoid delays.
- Updates must be received by the due date, not merely sent.
- Failure to comply may result in USDOT number deactivation and civil penalties.
- Keep your operating authority and contact details current to prevent communication issues during audits or enforcement actions.
Why It Matters
Accurate and up-to-date registration information ensures that FMCSA can:
- Identify active carriers and brokers correctly.
- Maintain public safety and enforcement accuracy.
- Prevent misuse or fraud involving inactive DOT numbers.
Staying current also protects your business from unnecessary downtime or fines due to administrative errors.
About TransSP
TransSP (Transport Specialists) provides professional compliance support for trucking companies, brokers, and freight forwarders across the United States and Canada.
With over 30 years of experience, TransSP helps businesses stay compliant with FMCSA and DOT regulations, including registration, renewals, and biennial updates.
Need Help Updating Your Records?
Our compliance experts can guide you step by step to update your USDOT or Operating Authority and stay compliant with FMCSA requirements.
Visit www.transsp.com/blog for more compliance news and resources.
Contact us today at support@transportspecialists.com or call +1 (866) 600-8960.
