If you operate a trucking company in the U.S., keeping your registration up to date with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) isn’t optional—it’s the law. Whether you’re a single owner-operator or manage a growing fleet, filing your Biennial Update (Form MCS-150) is a crucial part of staying compliant.
This guide explains everything truckers and fleet owners need to know about the FMCSA Biennial Update, including how to find your deadline and avoid costly penalties.
What is the FMCSA Biennial Update?
The Biennial Update is a federal requirement for all companies with a USDOT Number. It keeps your business information current with the FMCSA, including:
- Company name and address
- Number of vehicles and drivers
- Mileage data
- Type of cargo
- Operating classification
Even if nothing has changed, you must file every two years, based on your USDOT number. You can check all the details at the FMCSA website.
Who must file the Biennial Update?
If your business has a USDOT Number, you’re required to file. This includes:
- For-hire and private freight carriers
- Hazmat haulers
- Passenger carriers
- Both interstate and certain intrastate operators
When is your Biennial Update due?
Your filing deadline is based on your USDOT number, specifically:
- The last digit determines the year (odd/even)
- The second-to-last digit determines the month
Here’s the full table to find your exact deadline:
FMCSA Biennial Update Due Dates by USDOT Number
| Second-to-Last Digit | Month Due | Last Digit (Even) | Last Digit (Odd) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | January | Even years (e.g. 2024) | Odd years (e.g. 2025) |
| 2 | February | Even years | Odd years |
| 3 | March | Even years | Odd years |
| 4 | April | Even years | Odd years |
| 5 | May | Even years | Odd years |
| 6 | June | Even years | Odd years |
| 7 | July | Even years | Odd years |
| 8 | August | Even years | Odd years |
| 9 | September | Even years | Odd years |
| 0 | October | Even years | Odd years |
🔍 Example: If your USDOT number is 302946, the second-to-last digit is 4 (April), and the last digit is 6 (even). Your next Biennial Update is due April 2024.
How to File Your FMCSA Biennial Update
You can file Form MCS-150 for free in any of these ways:
✅ Online (Recommended)
Visit the FMCSA Registration Portal and follow the prompts.
✅ By Mail or Fax
- Download the MCS-150 form
- Mail or fax to:
FMCSA
Office of Registration and Safety Information
1200 New Jersey Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20590
Fax: 202-366-3477
🗂️ Keep proof of submission in case of future audits.
What happens if you don’t file?
Failure to file your update can result in:
- ❌ USDOT Number deactivation
- 🚫 Out-of-service orders
- 💸 Fines up to $1,324/day, capping at $12,945
These penalties apply even if your information hasn't changed.
Tips to stay compliant
- Set a calendar reminder based on your USDOT number
- Keep business records updated year-round
- Be cautious of third-party services charging high fees—filing is free through the FMCSA
- Track your filing status online using your company’s DOT number
Summar helps truckers stay compliant and cash flow strong
At Summar Financial, we understand that compliance tasks, such as the Biennial Update, IFTA reporting, and safety audits, can be overwhelming—especially for small carriers and new authorities.
While we focus on same-day freight factoring, risk protection, and fuel discounts, we also provide guidance to help you keep your business rolling legally and efficiently.
✅ Our clients benefit from access to a free TMS that helps organize key documents
✅ Our fuel card program simplifies tracking gallons per state—great for IFTA compliance
✅ Our support team is always happy to point you in the right direction
Don’t let paperwork slow you down.
Visit summar.com to learn how we help truckers and fleets grow with access to your cash within 24 hours, fast funding, real support, and compliance-friendly tools.
👉 Contact us today and discover how Summar can support your business.