Temporary Fuel Permits in Kentucky (IFTA Alternative)

Feb. 14, 2026, 2:07 p.m.
For commercial carriers operating in Kentucky, fuel tax compliance is critical. While most carriers use the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) to report multi-state fuel taxes, temporary fuel permits are an alternative for out-of-state or short-term operators. These permits allow carriers to legally purchase and use fuel in Kentucky without registering under IFTA. Understanding how they work can save time, prevent penalties, and streamline short-term operations
Temporary Fuel Permits in Kentucky (IFTA Alternative)

What Is a Temporary Fuel Permit?

A temporary fuel permit in Kentucky:

  • Is issued by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC)

  • Allows short-term commercial operations without full IFTA registration

  • Covers fuel tax liability for a limited period or trip

  • Is often used by out-of-state trucks or owner-operators visiting Kentucky for a short duration

This permit is particularly useful for carriers making single deliveries or seasonal trips.

 Who Needs a Temporary Fuel Permit?

Temporary fuel permits are generally required for:

  • Out-of-state carriers operating in Kentucky without IFTA registration

  • Vehicles traveling intrastate or interstate for a short period

  • Owner-operators delivering to or picking up loads in Kentucky

  • Small fleets that do not operate frequently enough to justify IFTA registration

If your operation is regular and multi-state, IFTA registration may still be the better long-term solution.

 How to Obtain a Temporary Fuel Permit

  1. Determine Eligibility – Your fleet must be temporarily operating in Kentucky and not IFTA-registered.

  2. Gather Vehicle Information – Include USDOT number, license plate, and GVW.

  3. Complete the Permit Application – Online  at  https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/

  4. Pay Applicable Fees – Fees are typically based on vehicle weight and permit duration.

  5. Display the Permit in the Vehicle – Must be visible to enforcement personnel during operation.

 Permit Duration and Fees

  • Duration can range from single-trip to several days or weeks depending on the permit type

  • Fees vary based on vehicle class and gross vehicle weight

  • Permits must be renewed or replaced if operations extend beyond the original permit period

 

 Compliance Tips

  • Carry the permit at all times while operating in Kentucky

  • Ensure that the permit matches the vehicle weight and trip purpose

  • Avoid operating beyond the permit expiration date to prevent fines

  • Consider IFTA registration for frequent multi-state operations to simplify reporting

 Summary

Temporary fuel permits in Kentucky provide a short-term alternative to IFTA registration for out-of-state or occasional carriers. They:

  • Allow legal fuel use and compliance

  • Reduce administrative burden for short-term operations

  • Require careful adherence to duration, weight, and fee requirements

For carriers visiting Kentucky occasionally, these permits are a convenient and compliant solution.

 

Temporary Fuel Permits in Kentucky (IFTA Alternative)

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