FMCSA / DOT mandate
IFTA, IRP & fuel tax
When you need apportioned plates — and when you are being upsold.
Do this now
IRP and IFTA are for qualified motor vehicles, generally 26,001 lbs and up or 3+ axles, operating across state lines. A lot of non-CDL hotshot combos never hit that. Do not buy a plate package you do not rate for.
Must-have
- IRP: apportioned registration for QMVs in two or more jurisdictions.
- IFTA: fuel-tax license and quarterly returns for QMVs interstate.
- If you are under the QMV threshold, keep fuel receipts and run on your Florida plate — confirm with FLHSMV, do not guess.
- UCR is separate from IFTA. Almost every interstate carrier still owes UCR.
The rule
IRP / IFTA QMV
Typically power units over 26,000 lbs GVW, or 3+ axles, used in interstate commerce.
What they don’t publish
- Authority mills bundle IFTA/IRP into every ‘hotshot startup’ invoice. Ask whether your ratings even qualify.
- If you later bolt on a heavier trailer and cross 26,001, the answer changes the same week. Re-check.
Official desks
Tap when it’s done
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