If you’re running a commercial vehicle in Arkansas, one of the first things you need to figure out is whether your operations are considered interstate or intrastate. It’s a key distinction.
Intrastate means your truck never leaves Arkansas. You operate only within state borders. In that case, you’re not required to register under IRP. But if your vehicle crosses state lines, even occasionally, you’re considered an interstate carrier.
That’s where the International Registration Plan (IRP) comes in. Arkansas is part of this agreement, which includes the lower 48 states and much of Canada. IRP allows interstate carriers to register their vehicles in one home state and travel legally across all participating jurisdictions. Instead of getting separate registrations for each state, your fees are calculated based on the miles you travel in each place. It's simpler, more efficient, and essential for staying compliant.
Who Needs IRP in Arkansas?
Not every truck needs IRP. But if you’re doing interstate business and your vehicle fits any of the following descriptions, you must register:
- It has two axles and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) over 26,000 pounds
- It has three or more axles, regardless of weight
- It’s part of a combination (such as truck and trailer) with a combined GVWR over 26,000 pounds
If you operate strictly within Arkansas, IRP isn’t required. But the moment your vehicle enters or exits Arkansas for business, it must either be registered under IRP or have a valid trip permit.
What If You’re Entering Arkansas Without IRP?
Let’s say you're an out-of-state carrier and you haven’t registered under IRP. You’ll need to secure a 24-hour Arkansas trip permit to run legally in the state. It’s a short-term solution, typically used by carriers who rarely cross into Arkansas.
But if you operate across state lines frequently, those trip permits add up fast in both cost and hassle. IRP registration provides a long-term solution, offering compliance and convenience for carriers who cross state lines regularly. You’ll save money, avoid repeated paperwork, and stay in good standing across jurisdictions.
How to Apply for IRP in Arkansas
You can apply for IRP through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). The process involves collecting several documents and submitting mileage data by jurisdiction. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Proof of ownership (such as a title or bill of sale)
- Lease agreement, if applicable
- USDOT and MC numbers
- Estimated distance by jurisdiction (or actual distance if renewing)
- Valid insurance documents
- Proof of payment for Form 2290 (Heavy Vehicle Use Tax)
If that sounds like a lot - it is. But the good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
As a Certified Registration Service Agent for Arkansas, IRP Registration Services handles it all for you. Just call us at (888) 202-4927. You won’t need to make a trip to the DMV. Our team fills out your forms, submits them electronically, and typically gets your IRP license plate, cab card, and weight decal processed within three business days. No stress, no lines - just results.
Do I Also Need an IFTA Sticker in Arkansas?
If your vehicle qualifies for IRP, there’s a strong chance it also needs to be registered under IFTA (the International Fuel Tax Agreement). IFTA ensures that fuel taxes are fairly shared among states and provinces, based on where fuel is used.
You’ll need an IFTA sticker if your vehicle:
- Has two axles and a GVW over 26,000 lbs
- Has three or more axles
- Is used in combination with a total GVW over 26,000 lbs
Carriers based in Arkansas are required to apply for IFTA decals and file quarterly fuel tax reports. And here’s where we can help again: when you register for IRP with us, you can also opt to add IFTA. One application. One call. Full compliance.
Arkansas IRP Renewal Process
IRP registration in Arkansas isn’t forever. It needs to be renewed every year. While the DFA often sends reminders, the responsibility falls on you as the registrant.
To renew your IRP account, you’ll need to:
- Report actual miles driven in each jurisdiction
- Confirm your insurance is current
- Submit proof of your HVUT (Form 2290)
- Pay all applicable fees before your expiration date
Failing to renew on time can lead to late fees, suspension, or worse - your vehicles being taken off the road.
That’s why so many Arkansas carriers trust IRP Registration Services with their renewal process. We track your deadlines, collect the necessary data, and file everything accurately and on time. Whether you’re managing one truck or twenty, our job is to keep your operation compliant and rolling forward.
call us at (888) 202-4927 or start your application online today. We’ll handle the paperwork so you can focus on the road ahead.
Weight Decal Chart
| GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RANGE | WEIGHT DECAL | GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RANGE | WEIGHT DECAL |
| 10,001 – 15,000 | 15 | 45,001 – 50,000 | 50 |
| 15,001 – 20,000 | 20 | 50,001 – 54,999 | 54 |
| 20,001 – 26,000 | 26 | 55,000 – 60,000 | 60 |
| 26,001 – 30,000 | 30 | 60,001 – 65,000 | 65 |
| 30,001 – 35,000 | 35 | 65,001 – 70,000 | 70 |
| 35,001 – 40,000 | 40 | 70,001 – 75,000 | 75 |
| 40,001 – 45,000 | 45 | 75,001 – 80,000 | 80 |
Keep in mind, the weight decal shows the maximum weight ranges handled by the declared gross weight.