What Is MCS-90 in Trucking?
Also called: Form MCS-90, MCS-90 Endorsement
Form MCS-90 is an endorsement on a motor carrier's liability policy that guarantees payment of judgments to injured people. The insurer promises to pay a final judgment for injury or damage to the public caused by the carrier's trucks, up to the coverage limit, even if the policy would not otherwise pay. The carrier must then repay the insurer for losses the policy would not have covered.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 16, 2026
Key Points
- The MCS-90 must be on the form FMCSA prescribes. The text cannot be changed (49 CFR 387.15)
- It must be issued in the exact name of the motor carrier, and coverage stays in effect continuously until it is ended as the rule requires (49 CFR 387.15 and 387.7)
- The insurer promises to pay a final judgment for public liability from the negligent operation of the carrier's vehicles, up to the form's limits
- The carrier agrees to reimburse the insurer for payments the policy would not otherwise have required, such as a claim involving a breach of the policy
- It protects the public. It is not extra coverage for the carrier's own truck or cargo
- Proof of financial responsibility can be an MCS-90, an MCS-82 surety bond or an FMCSA self-insurance order. The carrier keeps it at its principal place of business (49 CFR 387.7)
- A policy can be cancelled only on written notice, which is 35 days under 49 CFR 387.7(b)
What is an MCS-90?
An MCS-90 is a federal form that an insurance company attaches to a motor carrier's liability policy. Its full name is the Endorsement for Motor Carrier Policies of Insurance for Public Liability. The form is set by FMCSA, and the wording is fixed. The insurer must issue it in the exact name of the carrier, and it must stay in effect until it is ended in the way the rules allow. The form is how an insurer promises the public that a carrier's coverage is real.
What does the MCS-90 actually do?
It is a safety net for people who are hurt by a truck. If a court enters a final judgment against the carrier for public liability, the insurer must pay it up to the limits on the form. That holds even if the policy would not have paid, for example because a truck was not listed on the policy or a condition was not met. If the insurer pays a claim it would not have owed under the policy, the carrier agrees to repay the insurer. So the MCS-90 protects injured people first. It does not protect the carrier from the cost.
Who needs an MCS-90?
Motor carriers that must show financial responsibility under Part 387 use it. Part 387 sets the minimum levels, which depend on what you haul and the weight rating of your vehicle. Our motor carrier insurance page lists them. A for-hire carrier of non-hazardous freight in a truck rated 10,001 pounds or more needs at least $750,000 of liability coverage. The proof can be an MCS-90 on the policy, an MCS-82 surety bond or an FMCSA self-insurance order. Most carriers use the MCS-90.
How is the MCS-90 filed and kept?
The insurer files proof of coverage with FMCSA. The carrier keeps a copy of the endorsement at its principal place of business (49 CFR 387.7). Under the rule, coverage must be continuous until it is ended in the way the rule allows. FMCSA prescribes the form and does not allow the wording to change. If you change insurers, make sure the new policy carries an MCS-90 before the old one ends, so there is no gap.
What happens if the policy is cancelled?
The policy can end only on written notice, which is 35 days (49 CFR 387.7(b)). If your coverage ends and no new proof is on file, FMCSA can suspend your registration, and you may not haul freight. Brokers and shippers can see your insurance status on FMCSA's Licensing and Insurance site, so a lapse can also cost you loads. Replace the coverage before the old policy ends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an MCS-90 endorsement?+
It is a federal form attached to a motor carrier's liability policy. The insurer promises to pay a final judgment for injury or damage to the public caused by the carrier's trucks, up to the limits, even if the policy would not otherwise pay. The carrier must repay the insurer for losses the policy would not have covered.
Who needs an MCS-90?+
Motor carriers that must show financial responsibility under 49 CFR Part 387. Proof can be an MCS-90, an MCS-82 surety bond or an FMCSA self-insurance order. Most carriers use the MCS-90.
Is an MCS-90 required?+
It is one way to meet the requirement. A carrier subject to Part 387 must have proof of financial responsibility, and the MCS-90 endorsement is the usual proof. The form must be the one FMCSA prescribes, with no changes to the wording.
Does the MCS-90 cover my truck or cargo?+
No. It protects the public from injury and property damage caused by your vehicles. Your own truck and the freight you carry need separate coverage.
How often does an MCS-90 need to be updated?+
It stays in effect continuously until it is ended in the way the rule allows. It is tied to the policy, so you get a new one when you change insurers or the policy changes. Make sure there is no gap between policies.
What happens if my insurance is cancelled?+
Cancellation needs written notice, 35 days under 49 CFR 387.7(b). If no new proof is on file, FMCSA can suspend your registration. Replace the coverage before the old policy ends.
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This is industry terminology and typical practice. It is not legal or tax advice. Rates, fees, and rules mentioned are general ranges. Confirm the details on your rate confirmation, carrier agreement, or a current official source.