DOT Paperwork: MCS-150 and Third Party Filing Services

If your company has a DOT program, you probably already know how much paperwork that entails. Much of the specifics about DOT filing and driver files can be confusing, especially if you're wearing other hats within your company.

There's lots we could go over within this space, but this post is going to outline a simple tip: There's no need for a third party to file your biennial renewal with DOT. You can do it for free directly on the FMCSA website.

Every other year, FMCSA requires that companies who must maintain a DOT number file what is called the MCS-150 form. The form itself asks basic information about your company, drivers within the company, and whether you transport hazardous materials. Overall the part that must be filled out is only three pages long.

However, there are companies out there that offer to do your filing for you for a fee. These companies will make it seem like it's a scary undertaking, while also making it seem like it's a requirement to have them do the filing. It's not! They've just found a way to make the regulations seem intimidating. 

If a company is sending you scary notices about filing your DOT renewal, check first of all if it's coming from a .gov email. If not, it's likely that it's a third party asking for a hefty fee from you so that they can take the filing off your hands. Don't do it! Some of the time these third parties will even send you notices about renewal after you've already recently renewed. They don't have up-to-date information, and they're just trying to make a quick buck by making the filing process seem intimidating.

Filing the MCS-150 every other year directly with the FMCSA is free and simple. You can find your renewal deadline by looking at your assigned DOT number. The second-to-last digit on your DOT number tells you which years you must file. If it's odd, then you must file on odd years (so 2023, 2025, etc). If it's even, then you should file on even years (it's up for this year if that's the case, then again in 2026, etc). The last digit of your DOT number tells you which month you must file by. For instance, if the last digit of your DOT number is '3', then you must file by the end of March.

Here's a diagram:

 

This site gives you a total rundown of how to file:
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/form-mcs-150-and-instructions-motor-carrier-identification-report

 As always, as member companies you can call us up for help with MCS-150 filing or whatever other safety or compliance issue you may be dealing with.