How to Register, FMCSA Registration Overview for Motor Carriers
This instructional video provides new motor carrier applicants, offices/agencies, and persons supporting applicants with clear, need-to-know information on how to complete the registration process with FMCSA using the online Unified Registration System (URS). The video also refers carriers to additional resources to answer questions pertaining to their unique operation.
Entry-Level Driver Training for Commercial Driver’s License
Please read the information provided regarding Entry-Level Driver Training for Commercial Driver’s License and please visit https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/ for more information or FMCSA ELDT.
FMCSA PIN Consolidation
FMCSA PIN Consolidation has taken place to the USDOT, MC and MX PINs into one USDOT PIN. Visit FMCSA for further information.
FMCSA Expands Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse FAQs
FMCSA updated its frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the drug and alcohol clearinghouse.
The new FAQs are on FMCSA's drug and alcohol clearinghouse website.
Electronic Logging Devices
Electronic Logging Devices (ELD)
Visit the link above to view information regarding Electronic Logging Devices and Frequently Asked Questions.
Fraudulent and Misleading Marketing to New FMCSA Applicants
Fraudulent and Misleading Marketing
Unified Registration System (URS)
FMCSA changes are going to impact all carriers with a USDOT number.
Please visit the following link to learn more regarding the changes:
Unified Registration System (URS)
Update FMCSA Motor Carrier ID Report
To avoid unnecessary delays with MCS, please make sure that your information on the FMCSA Motor Carrier Unified Registration System is current. MCS does reference this information when a new account is set-up; and/or periodically as needed. Discrepancies between information provided to MCS and what shows up in the federal system, will slow down MCS processes.
Regardless if the company operation type is listed as Intrastate or as an Interstate carrier, Montana has adopted the federal regulations, therefore, all carriers must do their biennial MCS-150 updates.
What is the MCS-150 Update?
- Form MCS-150 (Motor Carrier Identification Report) is required for all entities with a USDOT number.
- Purpose: Maintain accurate company and safety data for FMCSA’s compliance and monitoring systems.
- Biennial Update Requirement:
- Must be filed every 24 months, even if no changes occurred.
- Filing schedule is based on the last two digits of your USDOT number:
| USDOT No. 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 |
| Instructions: Second-to-last digit: Odd = file in odd years; Even = file in even years. Last digit: Determines the month (1 = January, 2 = February, … 0 = October). |
|
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
- USDOT number deactivation.
- Civil penalties up to $1,000/day (max $10,000).
Update Includes:
- Legal name, address, contact info.
- Fleet size and vehicle miles traveled.
- Cargo classifications and operational type.
How to File:
- Online via FMCSA Portal using Login.gov credentials.
- Requires USDOT PIN for initial setup.
As of 2025, this centralization is fully complete. All biennial updates and jurisdictional changes must be processed through the FMCSA Portal using Login.gov credentials. Changes to company operation types (jurisdiction) specifically require submitting a digital “ticket” through the FMCSA Ask Website rather than a direct online edit.
Steps to Update the MCS-150 Form
- Access the FMCSA Portal: Log in using your Login.gov credentials.
- Navigate to Registration Options: Select the “Registration” menu (replaces the legacy Licensing & Insurance Registration Options site).
- Update Company Information: Complete and save the MCS-150 form.
- Grant Access: Company officials can grant authorized users access to make updates on their behalf. (Third Party Providers)
- Maintain Compliance: Keep your MCS-150 current—even if no changes occur—to comply with FMCSA regulations.
- Log in Regularly: Access the FMCSA Portal at least every 90 days to prevent account deactivation.
- Need Help? Contact the FMCSA Contact Center at https://ask.fmcsa.dot.gov or call 1-800-832-5660.
For detailed instructions and the official form, visit: FMCSA MCS-150 Form and Instructions.
For further information visit FMCSA Updating Your Registration or Authority.
