What the form is
The MCS-150, or Motor Carrier Identification Report, is the FMCSA form motor carriers and other registrants use to update an existing USDOT number record. FMCSA says it is most commonly used for the biennial update. Related versions exist: FMCSA's forms guide lists the MCS-150B for motor carriers that transport hazardous materials and the MCS-150C for intermodal equipment providers. Sources: Form MCS-150 and Instructions; Registration Forms Guide.
What this usually involves 5 steps
- Check whether your change can be made online in Motus
- Pick the right form: MCS-150 (motor carrier), MCS-150B (hazmat) or MCS-150C (intermodal equipment provider)
- Download the current version from FMCSA
- Complete and sign it with details that match your record
- Submit it the way FMCSA's instructions say and confirm on SAFER
From FMCSA: Registration Forms, FMCSA: MCS-150 form and instructions.
Rather not deal with this? Hand it to a Personal Compliance Specialist.
Consult with a Compliance SpecialistMost updates are now done in Motus
FMCSA describes Motus as the place to submit biennial updates and update business information, including company name and address. You sign in with Login.gov and complete identity verification the first time. Source: Move into Motus. For the filing steps, see our biennial update guide.
If you need a paper form, get it from FMCSA only
FMCSA strongly recommends using forms directly from its website, because other sites may carry expired versions, and it does not accept expired versions of the MCS-150, MCS-150B or MCS-150C. Start at FMCSA's MCS-150 form page rather than a PDF from a search result. Source: How do I reactivate my USDOT number?.
What people file it for
FMCSA's pages describe the MCS-150 series being used for a biennial update or other changes, for an "Out of Business" request to inactivate a number, to reactivate a number, and for reapplication after revocation. Each has its own guide here:
- Biennial update or changes: due date and updating after a change
- Out of business: closing or inactivating a USDOT number
- Reactivation: reactivating a USDOT number
- Reapplication after a New Entrant revocation: reapplying after revocation
A company that already has a USDOT number should not apply for another one. If you ended up with two, see duplicatedot.com.
This is not the first-time USDOT application
FMCSA says that since December 12, 2015, first-time applicants do not use the MCS-150 to get a USDOT number; new registrations go through FMCSA's online registration (now Motus). If you do not have a number yet, see dotnumberapplication.com.
What it costs at FMCSA: updating your USDOT record, including the biennial update, is free when you file it yourself. Reinstating revoked operating authority is a separate request, and FMCSA lists an $80 fee for it.
Common mistakes that cause delays
- Sending an expired version. FMCSA does not accept expired MCS-150, MCS-150B or MCS-150C forms. (FMCSA: Reactivate a USDOT number)
- Using the MCS-150 to apply for a first USDOT number. Since December 12, 2015, first-time applicants do not use it. (FMCSA: MCS-150 form and instructions)
Do it yourself
- Free to file in Motus
- You set up Login.gov and verify your identity
- You work out which form or request fits your record
- You match names, addresses and filings exactly
- You follow up until the change shows on SAFER
Have a specialist handle it
- A Personal Compliance Specialist reads your public record first
- You get a plain list of what is outstanding
- We prepare the filings with you and check they post
- You still complete Login.gov identity verification yourself
- Paid service. Any government fee is separate
Prefer to hand it off? A Personal Compliance Specialist can take it from here.
Talk to a Personal Compliance SpecialistCommon questions
Where do I get the current MCS-150 form?
From FMCSA, starting at its Form MCS-150 and Instructions page or its Registration Forms Guide. Avoid copies from other websites, because FMCSA does not accept expired versions.
Do I still have to mail the form?
Most updates, including the biennial update and business information changes, can be done in Motus. FMCSA still lists some actions that use forms submitted through its contact center, so check FMCSA's current instructions for your situation.
Why was my MCS-150 rejected?
One common reason FMCSA gives is using an expired version of the form. FMCSA strongly recommends using forms from its own website.
Is the MCS-150 free to file?
Yes. FMCSA says updating your information is free.
What is the difference between MCS-150, MCS-150B and MCS-150C?
FMCSA's forms guide lists the MCS-150 for motor carriers, the MCS-150B for motor carriers that transport hazardous materials, and the MCS-150C for intermodal equipment providers.
Still unsure after the questions above? Ask a Personal Compliance Specialist.
Consult with a Compliance SpecialistFMCSA sources
- FMCSA: Form MCS-150 and Instructions
- FMCSA: Registration Forms Guide
- FMCSA: Move into Motus
- FMCSA: How do I reactivate my USDOT number?
- FMCSA: Updating Your Registration or Authority
Checked November 15, 2026. FMCSA pages change; check the source before you rely on a detail. DOT Number Help is an independent service, not FMCSA, and you can file any of this directly with FMCSA.