Description
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) Outdated
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) is the total number of miles a commercial vehicle drives over a certain period, typically calculated over the previous 12 months.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) uses VMT data to measure how active a carrier is on the road and to help determine factors such as safety audits, Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores, and fuel tax reporting.
Carriers usually report their VMT when completing their MCS-150 biennial update or when updating their carrier information. If your VMT is not kept current, your USDOT number may be flagged as “VMT Outdated” in the FMCSA database.
Need to Know
“VMT Outdated” can be fixed with MCS-150 form.
- To clear the outdated flag, submit the MCS‑150 form and include the current VMT totals for the last 12 months (rounded to the nearest 10,000 miles).
Accurate VMT data is important
- Accurately reflecting your mileage is of paramount importance as it directly influences the calculation of essential metrics such as Crash Indicator Behavior Analysis.
- These metrics play a pivotal role in determining your Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores.
VMT is reported in 10,000-mile increments.
- When reporting VMT, the FMCSA requires carriers to submit their mileage in 10,000-mile increments rather than exact numbers. This means you’ll round your total annual mileage to the nearest 10,000 miles before entering it on the form.
Why DOT Compliance Group?
- We Simplify Complex Federal Requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does “VMT Outdated” mean on my FMCSA record?
A “VMT Outdated” status in the FMCSA database means your Vehicle Miles Traveled information has not been updated. This flag indicates that your mileage data is not current, which may result in increased scrutiny of your safety record, compliance status, and operating profile.
How do I fix a VMT Outdated status?
To clear the “VMT Outdated” flag, you need to submit an MCS-150 form to the FMCSA and include your current VMT totals for the last 12 months. Mileage should be rounded to the nearest 10,000 miles before entering it on the form.
Why is accurate VMT reporting important?
Accurate VMT data directly influences the calculation of important safety metrics, including your Safety Measurement System (SMS) scores and Crash Indicator Behavior Analysis. Inaccurate mileage can skew these scores and may portray your fleet less favorably than it deserves, potentially triggering additional audits or oversight.
How often do I need to update my VMT?
VMT is typically reported when you complete your MCS-150 Biennial Update or when you file an MCS-150 Edit to update your carrier information. Keeping your VMT current helps maintain accurate safety records and avoids the “VMT Outdated” flag in the FMCSA database.
