When Are You Required to File a Biennial Update?

If your business operates commercial vehicles regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), you’re required to file a Biennial Update (MCS-150 form) every two years. This rule applies even if your company’s information hasn’t changed, you’re no longer operating, or your fleet size has decreased.

The FMCSA uses these updates to maintain accurate records on every carrier’s safety and operational status. Failing to file can result in your U.S. DOT number being deactivated and may lead to fines of up to $10,000.

Your filing deadline depends on the last two digits of your DOT number. If the second-to-last digit of your USDOT Number is odd, you must file your update in odd-numbered years. If it’s even, you’re required to file in even-numbered years. The last digit indicates the month you’re due, with 1 being January and 0 being October.

Staying compliant with FMCSA requirements helps prevent costly penalties and keeps your fleet legally active on the road.

While you’re managing compliance, it’s also worth optimizing other parts of your operation, like fuel expenses. The Energie Fuel Card helps fleets save money by offering wholesale fuel pricing, real-time expense tracking, and custom controls that eliminate unauthorized purchases. Together, compliance and cost control keep your business running efficiently, reducing both administrative and operational costs.