MCS-150 paper filing vs online filing
MCS-150 updates are made online in FMCSA's Motus registration system (motus.dot.gov), which replaced FMCSA's older registration systems when it opened on May 19, 2026 (the legacy systems were retired May 14). You sign in with Login.gov, link your USDOT number, review the carrier information on file, and submit the update. Filing with FMCSA is free. The biennial update under 49 CFR §390.19T is due in the month set by the last digit of the USDOT number, in the odd or even year set by the next-to-last digit, by the last day of that month. FMCSA controls when the update shows in its records.
Side-by-side comparison
| Dimension | Online (FMCSA Motus) | Paper (Mailed) |
|---|---|---|
| Where | motus.dot.gov | Check FMCSA's current instructions |
| Sign-in | Login.gov account linked to your USDOT number | Wet signature on the form |
| Validation | Form checks while you fill it in | None until the form is reviewed |
| FMCSA fee | $0 | $0 plus postage |
| When it shows in FMCSA records | FMCSA controls when the update shows in its records | FMCSA controls when the update shows in its records |
Filing online in Motus
MCS-150 updates are made online in Motus. Create a free Login.gov account, sign in at motus.dot.gov, and link your USDOT number to your account. Then review each section of your carrier information - legal name, address, operations, vehicle and driver counts, and mileage - update what has changed, and submit. Filing with FMCSA is free.
After you submit, FMCSA controls when the update shows in its records. You can check your record in FMCSA's Motus public search by USDOT number or company name.
What about paper?
The MCS-150 used to be available as a paper form. With Motus, MCS-150 updates are made online. If you believe you need a non-online route, check FMCSA's current instructions at fmcsa.dot.gov before mailing anything.
Doing it yourself vs using a service
Filing the MCS-150 yourself in Motus is free. Some carriers prefer to have it handled: with FastMCS150, your MCS-150 is prepared and submitted to FMCSA for you for $175 standard, with Login.gov setup help available for $25 only if you need it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still mail a paper MCS-150?
MCS-150 updates are made online in FMCSA's Motus system at motus.dot.gov. If you think you need a different route, check FMCSA's current instructions at fmcsa.dot.gov before mailing anything.
What do I need to file online?
A Login.gov account linked to your USDOT number in Motus. Sign in at motus.dot.gov, review your carrier information, update what has changed, and submit. Filing with FMCSA is free.
When will my update show?
FMCSA controls when the update shows in its records. You can check your record in FMCSA's Motus public search by USDOT number or company name.
Related comparisons
File MCS-150 online
Your MCS-150 is prepared and submitted to FMCSA for you - $175 standard.
File MCS-150