The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a cooperative agreement among the 48 contiguous U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and Canadian provinces, designed to simplify the registration of commercial vehicles traveling across multiple jurisdictions. For carriers based in Pennsylvania that operate in more than one state or province, registering under IRP through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is mandatory.
IRP ensures that registration fees are distributed proportionally based on the miles traveled in each jurisdiction, allowing commercial carriers to legally and efficiently operate across state and provincial lines with a single "apportioned" plate and an important document which is cab card. Here's what you need to know about IRP requirements, applications, renewals, and compliance in Pennsylvania.
IRP Requirements in Pennsylvania
Carriers must register under IRP in Pennsylvania if they operate qualifying vehicles in multiple jurisdictions. A vehicle qualifies for IRP if it is used for transporting persons or property, has two axles and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) or registered weight over 26,000 pounds, has three or more axles regardless of weight, or is used in combination when the total weight exceeds 26,000 pounds. Additionally, vehicles must travel in two or more IRP jurisdictions to be eligible.
To register through PennDOT, carriers must maintain an established place of business in Pennsylvania. This means a physical structure, such as an office or garage, owned, leased, or rented by the carrier, where operational records are kept or made available. Once approved, PennDOT will issue apportioned license plates and a cab card for each registered vehicle. The cab card identifies all jurisdictions where the vehicle is authorized to operate, along with the appropriate weight limits for each.
How to Apply for IRP in Pennsylvania
To apply for an initial IRP registration in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:
- Obtain and complete Form MV-550A (Schedule A/E)
- This form collects vehicle details such as VIN, weight, and intended travel jurisdictions.
- Gather the required supporting documents, including:
- Proof of an established business address in Pennsylvania
- Vehicle title or lease agreement
- Valid insurance
- USDOT number
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
You can submit your completed application in either of the following ways:
- In person - Visit PennDOT’s Riverfront Office Center in Harrisburg.
- By mail - Send it to the appropriate PennDOT mailing address listed in the application instructions.
Online applications are not accepted for new IRP accounts, they are only available for renewals or changes to existing registrations.Submitting a complete and accurate application helps avoid processing delays and ensures your fleet can operate without interruption.
IRP Renewal Process
Renewing your IRP registration in Pennsylvania is critical to maintaining legal operations. Renewal notices are sent out in advance of your expiration date, giving you time to prepare all necessary documents. This includes updated vehicle information and accurate mileage data for each jurisdiction traveled during the reporting period.
You must submit your renewal on or before the expiration date to avoid penalties or potential suspension of your IRP credentials. Late renewals can lead to downtime for your fleet, additional fees, and enforcement issues at roadside inspections. It’s highly recommended to submit your renewal early to stay in compliance and avoid disruptions.
Fees, Mileage Reporting, and Compliance in Pennsylvania
IRP registration fees are determined based on the proportion of miles your vehicles travel in each jurisdiction. That’s why keeping precise, up-to-date mileage records is essential. Carriers must track distance traveled in every state or province and maintain monthly, quarterly, and annual summaries as part of their compliance requirements.
PennDOT may audit your mileage records at any time. Under the IRP, PennDOT can audit a registrant’s distance-traveled records. Registrants are notified 30 days in advance and given a checklist to prepare. The auditor reviews records, either on-site or by mail, and if they are missing, incomplete, or not in proper format, penalties of 20%, 50%, or 100% of apportioned fees apply for repeated offenses. After the audit, any fee adjustments must be paid within deadlines, or additional penalties, loss of privileges, and legal collection may follow.
Get Assistance with IRP Registration and Renewals
Navigating the IRP process in Pennsylvania can be time-consuming and complex, especially for new carriers or busy fleet operators. From gathering documents to calculating mileage and submitting applications on time, every detail matters.
Need help? Our skilled team can walk you through every step of the IRP registration or renewal process. We’ll ensure your paperwork is accurate, complete, and submitted on time so you can stay compliant and focused on your business.
Call us today at (888) 202-4927 for personalized assistance with Pennsylvania IRP registration.
