HOW THE RULE WORKS
Two digits determine the biennial schedule.
01
The last digit sets the month
1 means January, 2 means February, and so on through 9 for September. A final 0 means October.
02
The next-to-last digit sets the year
An odd digit means odd-numbered years. An even digit means even-numbered years.
WORKED EXAMPLE
USDOT 3216547
The last digit is 7, so the month is July. The next-to-last digit is 4, which is even, so the scheduled filing is due by the last day of July in even-numbered years.
KNOW THE DATE. THEN STOP RELYING ON MEMORY.
We Heart Paperwork keeps recurring company and driver deadlines together.
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COMMON QUESTIONS
Do I only update the MCS-150 on the biennial schedule?
No. The biennial schedule is the recurring filing requirement. Certain changes to your carrier information can require an update sooner, so the calculator should not be treated as a substitute for checking current FMCSA requirements.
What does the biennial update cost?
FMCSA does not charge a filing fee for the MCS-150 biennial update. Third-party services may charge to prepare or submit it for you.
What if I miss the scheduled update?
Missing a required biennial update can normally lead to enforcement consequences, including USDOT inactivation and civil penalties. FMCSA procedures can change, so check current agency guidance if you are already late.
Where should I verify my carrier record?
Use FMCSA's current registration system and official guidance. We Heart Paperwork is not connected to FMCSA and this calculator does not look up or change your federal record.
View the official FMCSA source
General information only. Regulations and FMCSA systems can change. Verify current requirements before relying on any compliance tool.
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We Heart Paperwork helps organize compliance information and does not provide legal advice or guarantee regulatory compliance.