The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a registration reciprocity agreement between U.S. states and Canadian provinces that simplifies how commercial carriers register their vehicles for interstate travel. Commercial carriers operating across multiple states or provinces need apportioned license plates to legally travel without registering separately in each jurisdiction. Michigan is an active participant in IRP, and carriers meeting certain criteria must register through Michigan if it is their base jurisdiction.
Who Needs IRP in Michigan?
IRP applies to commercial vehicles that meet one or more of the following:
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) over 26,000 pounds (for two-axle vehicles)
- Vehicles with three or more axles regardless of weight
- Combinations of vehicles with a total weight over 26,000 pounds
Vehicles must also be used in interstate commerce, traveling across state or provincial lines.
Examples include trucking companies, owner-operators, and carriers transporting goods or equipment interstate.
How to Register for IRP in Michigan
To register your vehicle under IRP in Michigan, your business must first establish Michigan as its base jurisdiction by maintaining a physical address and operational records in the state.
You will need to complete the IRP application, which requires detailed information about your fleet, including vehicle identification numbers, weights, and expected miles in each jurisdiction. Supporting documents are necessary for the application process, such as:
- Proof of your Michigan business address
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
- Vehicle titles or certificates of origin
- Proof of payment of the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) (if applicable)
Insurance documentation - Safety compliance information
Applications can be submitted online via Michigan’s Commercial Vehicle Information System (CVIS) or in person at designated service centers. Registration fees are calculated based on vehicle weight and the percentage of miles traveled in each jurisdiction.
Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT)
If you have recently purchased a new or used commercial vehicle, you should contact the IRS to determine if the federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax applies. Generally, vehicles with a GVW over 55,000 pounds are subject to this tax. When registering your vehicle within 60 days of purchase, Michigan does not require you to provide proof of HVUT payment to process your IRP application. However, it is important to comply with federal tax regulations to avoid any penalties.
Michigan IRP Audit Process
The Michigan IRP Audit Unit may select your account for an audit to verify that the mileage you have reported and your compliance with IRP regulations are accurate. If you are selected for an audit, you will be required to submit a completed Pre-Audit and Internal Control Questionnaire, detailed trip records for the audit period, and quarterly vehicle distance summaries for the vehicles included in the audit. The audit unit will compare the trip records you provide with your quarterly summaries and the distances reported on your IRP renewal applications to ensure consistency. If you have questions or need assistance with the audit process, you can contact the Michigan IRP Audit Unit by email at [email protected] or by phone at 517-335-6119.
IRP Renewals in Michigan
Michigan IRP registrations must be renewed annually. To renew, you are required to submit updated mileage reports that detail the miles driven in each jurisdiction over the past year, provide any updated vehicle or business information, and pay renewal fees based on your updated mileage and fleet details. Failure to renew on time or to provide accurate information can result in fines, penalties, or suspension of your registration.
Get Help with Your IRP Registration Service
IRP registration can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for new carriers or those operating across multiple jurisdictions. Our professional service can help manage every aspect of your registration, from checking your eligibility and gathering the necessary documents to submitting your application and reminding you of renewals. If you want to simplify your Michigan IRP registration and ensure compliance, call us at (888) 202-4927 to speak with our experienced specialists.
