Temporary Fuel Permits for Non-IFTA Vehicles

Nov. 30, 2025, 2:52 p.m.
For carriers operating across state lines without an active IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) license, temporary fuel permits are essential for staying compliant. These permits allow non-IFTA-qualified vehicles to travel legally through a state while covering the fuel tax owed for that trip. Every state has its own rules, costs, and validity periods, making it important for carriers to understand how temporary fuel permits work and when they’re required.
Temporary Fuel Permits in Kentucky

What Is a Temporary Fuel Permit?

A temporary fuel permit is a short-term authorization that substitutes for an IFTA license and decals. States require it for any commercial vehicle over 26,000 lbs GVW or with three or more axles, when traveling interstate without an active IFTA account.

These permits ensure the state receives the fuel tax owed for the miles driven within its borders.

Who Needs a Temporary Fuel Permit?

You must obtain a temporary fuel permit if:

  • Your vehicle meets IFTA weight/axle thresholds and

  • You do not hold a valid IFTA license, or

  • Your IFTA decals are missing, damaged, or expired, or

  • You are an out-of-state carrier making a one-time or occasional trip

  • Your IFTA account is suspended due to tax issues or reporting errors

This applies to both U.S. and Canadian carriers.

When Are Temporary Fuel Permits Used?

Carriers typically need these permits in situations like:

  • Newly purchased trucks not yet added to an IFTA account

  • Short-term interstate work, such as a one-time haul

  • Seasonal or part-time carriers that do not need yearly IFTA licensing

  • Owner-operators leased to carriers who don’t manage their fuel tax

  • Fleet vehicles temporarily removed from IFTA reporting

 Validity Period

Most states issue temporary fuel permits lasting:

  • 10 days

Cost of Temporary Fuel Permits in Kentucky

 

  • Cost is $95

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating without a proper temporary fuel permit can lead to:

  • Heavy fines

  • Trip delays or detention at weigh stations

  • Possible vehicle impoundment

  • Back taxes and penalty assessments

  • Suspension of credentials in the traveled state

States like Oregon, New Mexico, and New York have especially strict fuel tax enforcement.

How to Obtain a Temporary Fuel Permit

Carriers can get these permits through:

1. https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/

2. Phone  (502) 842-1467

Permits must be obtained prior entering the state!

What Information Is Required?

Expect to provide:

  • USDOT number

  • VIN

  • Plate number & state

  • Vehicle weight

  • Truck/trailer configuration

  • Origin and destination

  • Number of states you will cross

Having this ready ensures fast permit processing.

When Temporary Fuel Permits Make Sense

Temporary permits are ideal for:

  • New carriers not yet registered with IFTA

  • Carriers adding vehicles mid-year

  • Occasional interstate trips

  • One-truck operators who rarely leave their home state

  • Fleets testing new routes or contracts

If you travel interstate regularly, securing an IFTA license is more cost-effective.

Final Takeaway

Temporary fuel permits keep non-IFTA vehicles compliant when traveling across state lines. Understanding when they’re needed, how long they last, and how to obtain them helps carriers avoid fines and delays while ensuring smooth, legal transportation operations.