IRP Renewal Season Starts Now

Fall isn’t the only new season to come knockin’ on your cab door.

October is nearly here, which can only mean two things for truckers: It’s not only getting close to 3rd quarter IFTA filings (due on Halloween!), but it’s also the beginning of IRP Renewal Season!

The International Registration Plan is an agreement among all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces for the fair distribution of registration fees to each jurisdiction based on a carrier’s distance traveled in each.

 

If you think that sounds confusing, that’s just the start! While IRP certainly makes registration fees less complicated, it’s still difficult to keep up with your base jurisdiction’s particular requirements, like the renewal due date, proper display of registration credentials, etc.

That’s where TSNAmerica comes in. As a premier processing service, we know the requirements for each jurisdiction and can ensure everything is filed correctly and on-time.

And today, we’re going to help you sort a few things out. For those completely new to IRP, we’ll give a brief overview of the plan. And for you seasoned IRP vets out there (or just first-time renewers), we’ll see which jurisdictions have renewal due dates coming up, and what you need to do about it.

Who is IRP for?

IRP is for commercial motor carriers operating in multiple jurisdictions across the US and Canada. In other words, it’s for those who travel interstate (not just intrastate) with a vehicle weighing over 26,000 lbs. and/or having three or more axles.

How does it benefit you?

IRP simplifies registration and distribution of fees. Rather than calculating the amount due to each jurisdiction you travel through, and sending the amount to each, with IRP, you only pay your base jurisdiction. Your base then calculates the amount due to each jurisdiction using your mileage reported, and it distributes the funds accordingly.

IRP also streamlines registration credentials. Rather than having several cab cards, license plates, and stickers for each jurisdiction, your base will issue one registration credential to display according to the rules in that state/province.

Finally, the fees from IRP registration contribute toward highway infrastructure and safety programs.

What are your responsibilities?

While the application and renewal processes vary by jurisdiction, there are a few basics expected of all IRP participants.

• Choose your base jurisdiction. 
  
  -Typically, this is the state in which your business headquarters is located.
  -You must provide documented proof to support your right to base in each state. Requirements will vary.

• Apply for IRP registration with your base.
  
  -This will not only require proof of your right to base there, but also a completed application with the appropriate fee.
  -Proof of current year’s HVUT paid with a stamped Schedule 1 for vehicles weighing 55,000 lbs. or more.
  -Additional documentation, such as IFTA registration, vehicle title, proof of insurance, proof of proper records keeping etc., may be required by your base. Check the requirements of your particular state.

• Properly display registration credentials upon receipt.
  
  -Again, this will vary by jurisdiction.

• Maintain thorough distance records by jurisdiction.
  
  -Records of mileage traveled in each jurisdiction are vital to ensure proper distribution of fees. These records must also be readily available in your base state for audit and must be kept for at least 3 years after the close of the registration period.

Now, for those already registered with IRP, which jurisdictions have a renewal deadline coming up? Montana and Utah have staggered renewal deadlines. Check your cab card for the expiry date.

Montana IRP Renewal Due: 09/30/14 for those with September expiry.

Utah IRP Renewal Due: 09/30/14 for those with September expiry.

Kansas IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

Nebraska IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

Oregon IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

Wyoming IRP Renewal Due: 12/31/14

While we covered quite a bit of ground here, there’s much more to learn about IRP regulations in your particular base.

TSNAmerica can assist you with acquiring your IRP registration or renewal. In fact, if you're one of our current clients, you should have received the renewal instructions via mail already! 

And if you're just starting out, we can arrange everything you need to obtain your interstate authority. We even have authority packages to get your new business up and running fast!

Don’t risk hefty fines. Ask the experts and get the job done right the first time. Call TSNAmerica 803.386.0320. or email at support@tsnamerica.com.

Have a happy & healthy Fall season!