IFTA License & Decal Renewal: Annual Requirements
CFR Reference: IFTA Articles of Agreement R345 | Max Fine: $1,000
Your IFTA license and vehicle decals expire annually. Without valid credentials, you will need to purchase expensive trip permits at every state border. Most base jurisdictions require renewal by December 31 for the following year.
What It Is
The IFTA license is issued to the carrier (not individual vehicles) and authorizes operation in all IFTA member jurisdictions. IFTA decals are vehicle-specific and must be displayed on each qualified motor vehicle. Both must be renewed annually. The license and decals are issued by your base jurisdiction (the state where your vehicles are based or dispatched from).
Who Needs It
All motor carriers with IFTA-qualified vehicles operating in two or more IFTA jurisdictions. If you hold a current IFTA license, you must renew it annually to continue operating across state lines without purchasing individual trip permits.
Deadline & Frequency
Most base jurisdictions require renewal by December 31 for the following calendar year. Some jurisdictions offer an early renewal period starting in October or November. Check with your base state for exact dates. New decals must be displayed on vehicles by January 1 of the new year.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1
Check your base state's renewal window
Contact your base state's IFTA office or check their website for the renewal period. Most states open renewals in October or November for the following year. Some states send renewal notices by mail or email.
- 2
Verify all quarterly returns are filed
Your base state may not process the renewal if you have outstanding quarterly returns or unpaid tax balances. File any delinquent returns and pay any outstanding taxes before submitting the renewal application.
- 3
Submit the renewal and order decals
File the renewal application with your base state (usually online). Order decals for each qualified motor vehicle. Decal costs are typically $2-$10 per set (two decals per vehicle). Pay the renewal fee (if any) and decal fees.
- 4
Display new decals on each vehicle
Place one IFTA decal on each side of the cab exterior, just behind the cab door. Remove or cover old-year decals. Carry the cab card (IFTA license) in each vehicle. The license and decals must be displayed before operating in IFTA jurisdictions in the new year.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Operating without valid IFTA credentials requires purchasing trip permits at each state border.
- Trip permits cost $15-$50 per state per trip, adding up quickly for multi-state operations.
- Fines vary by state for operating without IFTA credentials.
- Repeated violations may lead to your base jurisdiction revoking your IFTA license.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much do IFTA decals cost?
- IFTA decal costs vary by state but are typically $2-$10 per set (two decals per vehicle). Some states include decals in the license renewal fee. The cost is minimal compared to the alternative of purchasing individual trip permits.
- Where do I place IFTA decals?
- Place one IFTA decal on each side of the cab, positioned on the exterior lower half of the cab behind the driver and passenger doors. The decals should be clearly visible for inspection. Do not place them on the windshield or on the trailer.