Differences Between KY Trip Permits and KYU Licenses

Dec. 7, 2025, 8:16 p.m.
Kentucky requires certain carriers to comply with state fuel tax and temporary operating regulations. Two common credentials—Kentucky Trip Permits and KYU Licenses—serve different purposes. Understanding the difference ensures carriers stay compliant while operating in or through Kentucky.
KY Trip Permits

What Is a KYU License?

A KYU License is Kentucky’s permanent weight-distance tax account.
It applies to carriers who:

  • Operate commercial motor vehicles over 59,999 pounds

  • Drive interstate or intrastate in Kentucky

  • Regularly enter or operate in the state

Key Points About KYU Licenses

  • Long-term credential: once issued, it remains active until canceled.

  • Required quarterly mileage and tax reporting.

  • Covers all qualified vehicles in a carrier’s fleet.

  • Must display a KYU number (no physical decal).

  • Failure to file reports may result in penalties or suspension.

Used by: Regular or recurring carriers operating heavy vehicles (60,000 lbs+).

What Is a Kentucky Temporary Trip Permit?

A Kentucky Trip Permit is a temporary permit allowing carriers without proper credentials to travel legally through Kentucky.

Common Reasons to Use a KY Trip Permit

  • The carrier does not have a KYU license.

  • The operation is occasional, one-time, or infrequent.

  • The vehicle is traveling interstate but not registered under IFTA or IRP.

  • The vehicle is entering Kentucky unexpectedly and needs temporary compliance.

Key Features of Trip Permits

  • Valid for 72 hours.

  • Issued per vehicle, per trip.

  • No quarterly tax filings required.

  • Ideal for out-of-state carriers who seldom enter Kentucky.

Used by: Out-of-state or temporary operators who do not maintain a KYU account.

Major Differences at a Glance

Feature KYU License KY Trip Permit
Purpose Permanent weight-distance tax account Temporary authorization to operate in KY
Who Needs It Carriers over 59,999 lbs operating regularly in KY Carriers without KYU entering occasionally
Validity Period Ongoing until canceled 72 hours
Reporting Quarterly tax filings required No reporting required
Cost Structure Tax based on miles driven Flat permit fee
Best For Frequent or regular KY travel One-time or rare trips

How to Choose the Right One

Choose a KYU License if you:

  • Operate heavy CMVs (60,000+ lbs)

  • Travel through Kentucky regularly

  • Want long-term compliance without buying repeated permits

Choose a KY Trip Permit if you:

  • Are an out-of-state carrier entering KY infrequently

  • Don’t want to maintain a KYU account

  • Only need to cover a short period of travel