Start TMS Free Trial Now!

Stop paying your IFTA, and start managing it.  Trucking Management Software (TMS) makes it easy!

As an independent motor carrier in the state of Iowa, you are required to register for an IRP apportioned plate if you operate in two or more jurisdictions.  What is IRP for trucking? The International Registration Plan a reciprocity agreement between the US and Canada that simplifies the process of collecting and distributing registration fees among member jurisdictions.  If you’re new to the trucking industry, you’ll need to know the following main points about the IRP before applying for your apportioned plates.

Iowa IRP Registration

If you operate one or more commercial vehicles outside of Iowa, you only need to register with your home jurisdiction.  You will be registering your “fleet” which can be one or more vehicles. The fees are determined by the distance traveled in all jurisdictions by each vehicle in your fleet.   The IRP office will distribute the fees among jurisdictions accordingly.

The IRP has several qualifications that must be met before your application can be approved.  First, you need to show that you have an established place of business in the state. The business should be a physical structure with a documented street address.  You will also need to prove that the business operates during regular hours with one or more employees on site. All operational records must be maintained and made available at the location.  

Next, you’ll need to meet the vehicle qualifications.  A qualifying vehicle is one that is designed, maintained, and used to transport persons or property.  The power unit should meet these requirements:

  1. Have two axles and a GVW in excess of 26,000 pounds, or have three axles regardless of weight.  
  2. Have three axles regardless of weight.
  3. Be used in combination with the GVW of the combination exceeding 26,000 pounds.

Several forms must be completed in the registration process.  A list of these documents is available here.  The Iowa DOT website also allows you to file your IRP and IFTA applications and make payments online.

After your registration is approved, you’ll receive an IRP apportioned plate and cab card for each vehicle in your fleet.  

Renewing Your IRP Iowa Plates

IRP plates are valid for one year only.  The renewal date is based on the month during which you began operations.  About 90 days before the renewal is due, the IRP will send a notice outlining all pertinent information for renewing your registration.  The renewal must be received by the IRP office 30 days before the due date to avoid penalties.

You can find the necessary forms and submit the renewal application online here.

When you decided to become a professional trucker, you had visions of building your business and enjoying the adventure of the open road,  Your dream probably didn’t include mountains of paperwork and deadlines and penalties. That’s why we created TruckingOffice. We take care of the administrative side of your operation so you can be free to drive that rig and make money.

How TruckingOffice Can Make Your Life Easier

How can TruckingOffice make your professional life easier?  We’ve put together a remarkable software package that manages all aspects of keeping you compliant with IRP and IFTA.  Our program also tracks mileage, invoices, dispatches, vehicle maintenance, and more.  All transactions are secure, error-free, and your information is all in one place for easy access anytime.  

Learn why thousands of truckers are out there driving while you’ve been sitting here filling out forms and reports.  Escape the hassle and get back behind the wheel. Sign up for our 30-day free trial today to find out why you need TruckingOffice to help you take control of your operation.