IRP Registration and Apportioned Plates
If you run a qualifying commercial vehicle across state lines, you need apportioned plates through the International Registration Plan. IRP registration lets you operate in multiple states on one set of plates, with your registration fees split among the states you travel based on the miles you run in each. Tech Rig handles your IRP registration so you can run interstate legally, without learning a new state portal.
Reviewed by Robert Hooke, Co-Founder.
Authority journey
Authority active
Active
IRP filed, apportioned plates
Interstate filing
Cleared to run interstate
Interstate ready
Authority active
Active
IRP filed, apportioned plates
Interstate filing
Cleared to run interstate
Interstate ready
What IRP registration is
The International Registration Plan is an agreement among the U.S. states and Canadian provinces that lets interstate carriers register in their base state and operate across member jurisdictions on apportioned plates. Instead of registering your truck separately in every state you drive through, you register once and your fees are apportioned, split among states in proportion to the miles you run in each. The plates you receive are called apportioned plates. IRP applies when a commercial vehicle operates in two or more jurisdictions (U.S. states or Canadian provinces) and meets a threshold: a power unit with a gross or registered weight over 26,000 lbs; or three or more axles regardless of weight; or used in combination when the combined weight is over 26,000 lbs.
IRP vs IFTA: what is the difference
Short, because people confuse them. IRP is about registration and plates. IFTA is about fuel taxes. Most interstate carriers need both, and we usually set them up together, but they are separate programs with separate filings. This page covers IRP; the IFTA page covers fuel tax.
- IRP is registration and apportioned plates, so you run interstate on one set of plates.
- IFTA is fuel tax reporting across the states you run, filed separately from your plates.
When you need apportioned plates
- You run in two or more jurisdictions (states or provinces) and your power unit is over 26,000 lbs, has three or more axles, or runs in combination over 26,000 lbs combined.
- You cross state lines for hire or for your own freight in interstate commerce.
- You are adding trucks to a fleet that already runs interstate.
If you only ever run inside one state, IRP may not apply to you. We confirm before you pay.
Operating without valid IRP credentials can mean fines, or being placed out of service at a weigh station until it is resolved.
From our filing desk
Most of the IRP files we handle are multi-state carriers who want their base jurisdiction, mileage, and fee estimate sorted before they pay. We confirm IRP applies, prepare the application, and line it up with IFTA when both are needed.
What our IRP registration service includes
- We confirm your base jurisdiction and whether IRP applies to your operation.
- We prepare and submit your IRP application with your fleet and travel information.
- We help you estimate the fees, which depend on your states, mileage, and vehicle weight, so there are no surprises.
- We coordinate IRP with your IFTA setup if you need both.
Our IRP setup fee is $225 standalone ($175 inside a compliance package). This payment covers Tech Rig's setup and filing-assistance fee. Government, state, plate, credential, and jurisdiction fees are calculated separately and must be paid before the filing can be completed. IRP renews annually.
IRP sits on top of an active authority. If you are still standing up your company, see how it fits with your operating authority, or have us handle the full setup. Once you are road-legal and running, we also keep you loaded with dispatch.
IRP registration FAQ
What are apportioned plates?
Plates issued under the International Registration Plan that let you run interstate, with your registration fees split among the states you travel based on mileage.
Do I need IRP and IFTA?
Most interstate carriers need both. IRP is registration and plates; IFTA is fuel tax. They are separate filings.
How are IRP fees calculated?
By your registered weight and the share of miles you run in each member state. Because mileage drives the fee, estimates depend on your routes.
Do I pay the state fees to Tech Rig?
No. Government registration fees are separate and go to the jurisdictions. Our service fee is for handling the filing. You see both up front.
What if I only run in one state?
IRP is for interstate operation. If you run purely intrastate, it may not apply. We will tell you.
Running interstate? Get your apportioned plates handled the right way.