IRP Registration in Iowa

The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a federal agreement that allows commercial vehicles to travel across multiple U.S. states (and Canadian provinces) with just a single apportioned plate and a cab card. For truckers based in Iowa, IRP compliance means you don’t need separate permits for each state - your fees are apportioned based on the miles driven in each jurisdiction. Iowa DOT handles your IRP account, issues plates and cab cards, and ensures your compliance across state lines.

Iowa IRP Registration Requirements

To qualify for IRP through Iowa, your business must meet “base jurisdiction” criteria which means that you have a physical business address in Iowa (P.O. Boxes are not accepted), your business has operational control and records kept or made available in Iowa and one of your IRP-registered vehicles accumulates mileage in Iowa.

Iowa requires IRP registration for most interstate commercial vehicles, including:

Vehicles with two axles and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) over 26,000 pounds
Vehicles with three or more axles, regardless of weight
Vehicles used in combination (e.g., tractor-trailers) with a combined GVW over 26,000 pounds

If you’re only operating within Iowa or have a light vehicle under the thresholds above, you may not need IRP - but if you cross state lines, it’s mandatory.

Documents Required to Apply

Iowa has a detailed list of documents you’ll need to submit when applying for IRP:

Vehicle title or title application (Iowa title preferred)
Proof of Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (IRS Form 2290) for vehicles over 55,000 lbs
USDOT number (must be active and match your Iowa business info)
Mileage schedule showing miles traveled in each state over the previous reporting year
Fleet schedule listing all vehicles you want to register
Three proofs of business presence in Iowa, such as utility bills, insurance, or lease agreements
Record Retention Statement acknowledging your duty to keep mileage and fuel records for audit purposes

You may also need to file a Schedule G for leased vehicles or vehicles temporarily removed from service.

The Iowa IFTA Application Process

Fill out Form 441041 (Iowa IFTA application) and sign the Record Retention Statement (Form 442069)
Pay a $10 application fee, plus $0.50 per set of decals. Iowa issues one set of decals per vehicle
Provide three proofs of business address in Iowa. A temporary 30-day license is available for qualifying applicants
Submit all documents via email or mail - in-person applications are not accepted

Quarterly Fuel Tax Filings

You must file even if no fuel was consumed - that’s known as a “zero report.” Late filings are subject to a $50 or 10% penalty, whichever is greater, plus interest

Q1	(Jan–Mar)	April 30
Q2	(Apr–Jun)	July 31
Q3	(Jul–Sep)	October 31
Q4	(Oct–Dec)	January 31

Stay Compliant on the Road - Let Us Handle Your IRP and IFTA

Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing for another year, staying compliant with IRP and IFTA requirements in Iowa is essential for keeping your trucks on the road - and avoiding costly penalties. From maintaining accurate mileage and fuel records to filing renewals and quarterly reports on time, the administrative side of trucking can be overwhelming.