Is your DOT Number and Operating Authority records up to date?
The FMCSA requires all motor carriers to keep these records up to date so that the agency has accurate information on all commercial motor carriers in the United States. There are a few different reasons why an update may be required, but the process for submitting them is always the same: the MCS-150 form. Keep in mind this form is used only to update a current motor carrier’s record – not to create a new one.
Here are three reasons why you must submit an MCS-150 form for your business:
#1: Your Information has Changed
If your name, address or other piece of business information has changed, you must file an update to keep your record current. This update must be filed even if you recently submitted an MCS-150 form as part of the biennial update.
#2: It’s Been Two Years
Every motor carrier is required to update their MCS-150 form every two years – even if their information remains unchanged or they’re no longer operating as an interstate carrier (and haven’t notified the FMCSA yet). How do you know when it’s time to file your update? First, look at the last digit of your DOT number. That will tell you the month your update is due:
| USDOT number ending in: |
Must file by last day of: |
| 1 |
January |
| 2 |
February |
| 3 |
March |
| 4 |
April |
| 5 |
May |
| 6 |
June |
| 7 |
July |
| 8 |
August |
| 9 |
September |
| 0 |
October |
Then, look at the next-to-last digit of your DOT number. That will tell you the year it’s due. If it’s even, the update is due every even-numbered year. If it’s odd, it’s due every odd-numbered year.
It’s important to file this form in a timely manner, as the FMCSA will levy fines for noncompliance. Fines can be as high as $1,000 a day, up to a maximum of $10,000.
#3: Your State Participates in PRISM
The Performance Registration Information Systems and Management Program (PRISM) is a federal program that many states participate in. The purpose, is to enhance the safety of the commercial motor vehicles on the road today.
If you’re required to open or renew your International Registration Plan (IRP), you will be required to update your MCS-150 each time your IRP is submitted. Because IRPs are renewed annually, that means you must file an MCS-150 update at least once every 12 months.
Have questions about the MCS-150 update process? Leave them in the comments below!
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