Temporary Trip & Fuel Permit Guide

We specialize in issuing these permits quickly—often same-day—as a core service to keep carriers compliant and on the road.

Requirements by Jurisdiction

Requirements vary by state, with no federal issuance—states handle directly or via services. Focus on California, with examples from Texas (Southwest hub) and Michigan (Midwest industrial state) for comparison. Fees and durations are current as of 2025; no major nationwide changes noted, but inflation adjustments possible.

State
Permit Type
Eligibility & Requirements
Duration & Fee
Display Rules
California (CDTFA/DMV)
Fuel Trip Permit (CFT, in lieu of IFTA)
Out-of-state vehicles >26,000 lbs GVW, 3+ axles, or combos >10,000 lbs. No IFTA decal required. Complete before entry; covers diesel/use fuel taxes.
4 consecutive days; $30-$73 (varies by vendor; state base $30).
Carry original/completed form; no decal needed. Present at ports.
California (CDTFA/DMV)
Commercial Trip Permit (IRP Temp)
Non-IRP vehicles >26,000 lbs GVW or 3+ axles (including towing). Exempt if <26,001 lbs interstate-only.
4 consecutive days (non-resident); $45.
Carry copy; affix if decal provided. Valid for one entry/exit.
Texas (TxDMV/Comptroller)
Temporary Trip Permit
Non-IRP vehicles for temporary movement; non-commercial/light commercial.
30 days; $25-$82 (passenger $25, commercial $82).
Carry printed permit; present at inspection.
Texas (TxDMV/Comptroller)
Trip Permit (Fuel)
Non-IFTA vehicles >26,000 lbs; covers fuel taxes for one entry.
20 days from entry; $50+ (varies).
Carry form; no decal, but record mileage for taxes.
Michigan (MDOT/SOS)
Temporary Trip Permit
Non-IRP vehicles >26,000 lbs for interstate.
10 days; $20-$50 (varies by weight).
Carry copy; affix decal if issued.
Michigan (MDOT/SOS)
Temporary Fuel Permit
Non-IFTA; >26,000 lbs or 3+ axles.
10 days; $20+.
Carry permit; log fuel purchases.

Other U.S. Examples: Oklahoma: 72-hour trip ($20+), 120-hour fuel ($25+). Pennsylvania: 5-day trip/fuel $73. General: 48 states + DC participate in IFTA; non-members (e.g., AK, HI) have separate rules.
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Pro Tip: In CA, Fuel Trip Permits don't require IFTA decals but must be pre-obtained; combine with OSOW permits for heavy hauls to streamline.

Understanding When Temporary Trip & Fuel Permits Are Necessary

Temporary Trip and Fuel Permits are essential for vehicles not fully registered under IRP or IFTA. They ensure compliance and avoid penalties during interstate travel.

Vehicle Qualifications

Applies to vehicles with 3+ axles or GVW over 26,000 lbs.

Travel Scenarios

Necessary for infrequent interstate trips or leased vehicles exceeding weight limits.

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about temporary trip and fuel permits.

What are trip permits?

Trip permits grant temporary operating authority for vehicles not fully registered under IRP. They allow legal interstate movement for commercial vehicles exceeding certain thresholds. This ensures that proportional registration fees are paid across states.

What are fuel permits?

Fuel permits cover fuel tax obligations for vehicles not registered under IFTA. They help distribute fuel taxes fairly among states without requiring quarterly reporting. Often, these permits are issued as a combined permit with trip authorization.

When do I need them?

You need these permits if your vehicle isn't fully IRP/IFTA registered and you are crossing state lines. This applies to power units with specific weight thresholds and travel scenarios. Not having permits can lead to fines or out-of-service orders.

How to obtain them?

You can apply online through state portals or third-party services. Provide necessary details such as your USDOT number and vehicle information. Processing times can vary from instant to a couple of business days.

How to use them?

Always carry a printed or electronic copy of your permits. Affix any required decals to your vehicle. Ensure you log your miles and fuel for potential audits.

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