Understanding IRP (The International Registration Plan)
Starting your own trucking company can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to handling all the registration and licensing requirements. One of the more confusing processes is registering with the International Registration Plan (IRP).
In this article, we’ll explain what IRP is, answer some common questions, and guide you through the registration process.
What is IRP?
The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a system that allows commercial vehicles to travel across the United States, Washington D.C., and Canadian provinces while staying legally registered. If you plan to haul freight in any of these areas and meet certain vehicle requirements, you’ll need IRP-apportioned license plates and a cab card.
If your vehicle weighs more than 26,000 pounds (gross vehicle weight) or has three or more axles and will be traveling between states, you will also need an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) account.
Apportioned License Plates
Apportioned license plates are issued after setting up both IRP and IFTA accounts. These plates are for the power unit of your vehicle. You will also receive a cab card, which lists the states and provinces where your vehicle is registered to operate.
Once you receive the decal, place it on the lower right corner of your front registration plate. If you are using a tractor-trailer, decals will also be issued for each trailer. If this is your first time registering with IFTA, place the IFTA and IRP stickers on each side of your cab’s exterior. You must always keep your license inside the cab.
For more information, head to What are Apportioned License Plates? Why do I Need Them in Trucking
What Is A Cab Card?
A cab card is an official document issued by your home state or province. It lists the areas where your vehicle is legally allowed to operate. Each cab card contains details about the vehicle and cannot be transferred to another vehicle.
For more information, head to What are Cab Cards and Why Would I Need One?
The IRP Registration Process
To register your vehicle and receive your apportioned plates and cab card, contact your home state or the state where your business is established. The state where you formed your company is likely your home jurisdiction.
Next, find your state’s contact information in the IRP Directory and reach out for specific instructions. Each state has different requirements, but you will usually need the following documents:
Documents Needed For IRP Registration:
- Completed IRP application for your state
- Proof of residency or business location (such as utility bills or property tax bills)
- Proof of current insurance with liability coverage limits
- USDOT Number
- Federal Tax Identification Number
- Proof of paid Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) fees
- Lease agreement (if leasing onto another carrier)
- Filed Form 2290 (Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Form)
- Current registration (if renewing)
When Do I Renew My IRP Registration?
The renewal date for your IRP registration depends on your home state and when you first registered. Your cab card will show the expiration date of your plates, and it’s your responsibility to keep them up to date.
You must also track the miles you travel in each jurisdiction. Your registration fees are based on the miles traveled in each state during the previous year. Be sure to keep records of fuel purchases, mileage, and other activity for each truck annually. The reporting period runs from July 1 to June 30 of the following year.
How Much Does IRP Registration Cost?
The cost of IRP registration varies based on factors like the state where you’re registered, the states you operate in, the type of equipment you’re registering, and the number of vehicles in your fleet.
What Vehicles Are Exempt from IRP Registration?
Some vehicles do not need to register under IRP, even if they meet the weight or axle requirements. These exemptions include:
- Government-owned vehicles
- Vehicles that only operate within one state (intrastate miles only)
- Buses used for chartered parties
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