Who Must Pay KYU in Kentucky?
KYU applies to commercial motor carriers if they:
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Operate vehicles with a gross weight of 60,000 pounds or more (including truck and trailer combined).
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Operate on Kentucky highways, either intrastate or interstate.
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Have a USDOT number and engage in commercial operations.
Exemptions may apply for:
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Recreational vehicles
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Certain farm vehicles
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Vehicles already registered under other Kentucky-specific programs
How KYU Is Calculated
KYU is based on gross vehicle weight (GVW), not miles traveled. Kentucky publishes an annual weight-based fee schedule, which carriers use to determine their tax liability.
Example:
A 70,000-pound commercial truck registered in Kentucky may pay a higher KYU fee than a 60,000-pound truck, regardless of how many miles are driven in the state.
How to Register and File KYU
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Register with the https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/ , select Permanent License (KYU / KIT number) option
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Add the number of vehicles in your fleet and their gross weights.
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Pay the tax quarterely or as required by the KYU schedule, payments are made through your Personal Cabinet after registration.
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Maintain records of registration and payments for auditing purposes.
Online filing is available for convenience and ensures faster processing.
Note: For occasional trip select the Temporary Fuel Permits option.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to register, underreporting vehicle weight, or missing deadlines can result in:
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Fines and interest charges
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Vehicle registration holds
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Out-of-service orders for commercial vehicles
Staying compliant ensures smooth operations and avoids costly enforcement actions.
Why KYU Matters for Trucking Companies in Kentucky
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Ensures fair contribution to highway maintenance based on vehicle impact.
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Helps trucking companies avoid legal and financial penalties.
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Keeps operations in good standing with state and federal transportation authorities.
Key Takeaway
Any commercial truck operating in Kentucky with a gross weight of 60,000 pounds or more must comply with KYU regulations. Timely registration, accurate reporting, and proper payment are essential for maintaining compliance and supporting Kentucky’s transportation infrastructure.