What Is an MCS-90? A Plain-English Guide for Motor Carriers
An MCS-90 is a federal endorsement that guarantees the FMCSA you will pay for accidents involving the public. Here is what it does and who needs one.
An MCS-90 is a federal endorsement attached to your trucking liability policy that guarantees the FMCSA you will pay for accidents involving the public — even if your policy would not normally respond. It is required for interstate motor carriers hauling for hire.
What the MCS-90 Actually Does
It is a public safety net, not coverage for you. If you have a covered accident but the claim would otherwise be denied (a lapse, an exclusion), the MCS-90 forces your insurer to pay the injured public up to the federal minimum — and then the insurer can collect that money back from you.
Who Needs an MCS-90?
- Interstate motor carriers hauling for hire across state lines
- Carriers required to register with the FMCSA and maintain an MC number
- Most for-hire trucking operations, with a $750,000 minimum ($1M for most freight)
How Do You Get One Filed?
The MCS-90 comes with your primary liability policy. When ProRisk binds your coverage, we file your BMC-91 and MCS-90 with the FMCSA the same day so your operating authority goes active without delay.