Maine IRP Information

First, you need to obtain a USDOT number if your vehicle Is used to transport the types and quantities of hazardous materials requiring a safety permit in intrastate commerce. Once this is completed, you’re ready to apply for the IRP and IFTA permits.    

What is IRP?  The International Registration Plan is a reciprocity agreement between the United States and Canada that simplifies the process of collecting and disbursing registration fees among jurisdictions.  Fees are based on the number of miles traveled in each state (jurisdiction) and the type of vehicle involved. The IRP fees are paid in addition to the IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement), which manages the collection and disbursement of quarterly fuel use taxes.  It’s important to note that the IRP fees do not exclude drivers from state or local fees or taxes.

Maine IRP Registration

Before applying for your IRP apportioned plate, you should make sure you and your vehicle meet all necessary qualifications.  You’ll need documentation that proves you have an established place of business. The business must be a physical structure with a street address and is open during regular business hours.  You will also need to provide the names of employees (not contractors).

A qualifying motor vehicle is one that is designed, maintained, and used for transporting people or property across two or more jurisdictions.  Other qualifications include:

1. The vehicle has two axles with a gross vehicle weight that exceeds 26,000 pounds, or
2. Three or more axles regardless of weight, or
3. Is used in combination if the GVW of said combination exceeds 26,000 pounds

IRP fees vary from one jurisdiction to another. The fees are determined by the weight of your vehicle plus the miles traveled in each state on your route.

Detailed information about the qualifications is available at the Maine IRP website.  When your application is approved, you’ll receive one apportioned plate and one cab card for each vehicle in your fleet.  Now, you can get on the road and start making money.

Renewing Your Maine IRP Plates

IRP plates and cab cards are valid for one year only.  You’ll receive a renewal notice with detailed information on how to apply.  Before beginning the renewal process, you’ll need to complete the IRP Registrant Certification form.  Your renewal application must be received at least 30 days before the due date to avoid penalties or fines.  Keep in mind that you’ll need to be compliant with all IFTA quarterly payments before renewing the IRP apportioned plate.

How TruckingOffice Can Make Your Job Easier

Being an independent motor carrier can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with a long list of reports, forms, and deadlines to keep track of.  The time involved in all the paperwork can make a dent in the time you spend driving. That’s why you need TruckingOffice. Our software was designed specifically to help drivers save time and money.

Imagine being free from worrying about due dates, documentation, and all the other administrative aspects of your business.  We track invoices, dispatches, IRP and IFTA reporting, vehicle maintenance, fuel use, mileage, and more.  Also, all of your information is secure and in one place where it can be accessed anytime.

We’ll make it easy for you to get started.  Try our 30-day free trial and find out how much easier your job can be.