The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a registration agreement that allows commercial vehicles to operate across multiple jurisdictions with a single apportioned license plate.
What is IRP?
IRP is required for interstate trucking operations and applies to:
- Vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds
- Vehicles with three or more axles
- Vehicles traveling in two or more jurisdictions
Instead of registering in each state, carriers pay apportioned fees based on mileage driven in each jurisdiction.
How IRP Apportionment Works
The IRP system calculates registration fees using:
- Total fleet miles
- Miles traveled per state/province
- Jurisdiction-specific fee schedules
This ensures fair distribution of registration fees.
IRP Registration Process
To register under IRP:
- Establish a base jurisdiction
- Submit mileage records
- Provide proof of ownership and insurance
- Pay apportioned registration fees
Once approved, carriers receive:
- Apportioned license plates
- Cab cards listing authorized jurisdictions
Compliance Requirements
IRP carriers must:
- Maintain accurate mileage records
- Renew registration annually
- Update fleet changes (add/remove vehicles)
Non-compliance may result in:
- Fines and penalties
- Suspension of registration
- Roadside violations
