IRP (International Registration Plan)
IRP is the registration program that issues one "apportioned" license plate good in every state and province you operate in, with fees split based on the miles you drive in each.
What you actually need to know
You register your truck with IRP in your base state. The state issues you an apportioned plate (looks like a regular plate with "APPORTIONED" stamped on it) and a cab card listing every IRP jurisdiction. The registration fee is calculated by taking each state's standard registration cost and weighting it by the percentage of your miles driven there.
You renew IRP annually. The renewal requires you to report your prior-year mileage by state — keep mileage logs religiously, because this drives your renewal cost.
If you operate an interstate commercial vehicle over 26,000 lbs GVWR (or 3+ axles regardless of weight), you need an IRP plate. A regular state plate doesn't legally cover you in other states.
Common mistakes / confusions
- IRP and IFTA are separate. IRP is registration; IFTA is fuel tax. Both are mileage-based but they're administered differently.
- You can't register an interstate truck as just a regular passenger-style plate. It has to be apportioned.
- New carriers in their first year estimate mileage; subsequent renewals use actual prior-year data, which can dramatically change the fee.
Related terms
Where to go next
TruckStart is an educational tool, not a law firm, accounting firm, insurance agency, freight broker, or filing service. Always verify current requirements directly with FMCSA, your state, the IRS, and qualified professionals before making business decisions.