How to Get a Temporary Fuel Permit in Washington

Nov. 3, 2025, 11:47 a.m.
If you’re a commercial carrier operating in or through Washington State without an active IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) license, you’ll need a Temporary Fuel Permit to stay compliant. This short-term permit allows you to legally purchase and use fuel in the state without facing fines or penalties. Let’s break down when you need one, how to get it, and what it covers.
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1. What Is a Temporary Fuel Permit?

A Temporary Fuel Permit is a short-term authorization that allows commercial vehicles to operate in Washington without an IFTA decal or fuel tax license.

It’s typically used by:

  • Out-of-state carriers entering Washington for a single trip or limited duration.

  • New trucking businesses that haven’t yet received their IFTA credentials.

  • Carriers borrowing or renting trucks not covered under their IFTA license.

This permit ensures that the proper fuel taxes are paid to the state during your operation period.

2. When Do You Need a Temporary Fuel Permit in Washington?

You’ll need a Temporary Fuel Permit if:

  • Your truck has a gross vehicle weight (GVW) over 26,000 pounds, or

  • You operate a vehicle with three or more axles, and

  • You do not have a valid IFTA license and Washington IFTA decals displayed.

Essentially, if you’re traveling through Washington commercially without IFTA credentials, you must obtain a temporary fuel permit before entering the state.

3. How Long Is the Permit Valid?

Washington’s Temporary Fuel Permits are usually valid for three (3) consecutive days from the time of issuance.

This timeframe covers one-time trips or short-term operations — perfect for delivering loads or traveling through the state without needing full registration.

4. How to Apply for a Washington Temporary Fuel Permit

You can obtain a Washington Temporary Fuel Permit in one of the following ways:

A. Through the  

  • Visit the www.washingtontruckingonline.com

  • Or call to (206) 339-6683

  • Provide your truck’s registration, USDOT number, and trip details.

  • Pay the applicable fee  $95

 

 

5. Information You’ll Need to Apply

When applying, have the following details ready:

  • Company name and USDOT number

  • Truck/trailer plate numbers

  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)

  • Unit weight and number of axles

  • Origin and destination points

  • Payment method (credit card or account with a permit service)

6. Displaying the Permit

Once issued, the Temporary Fuel Permit must be:

  • Printed and kept in the cab of the vehicle at all times.

  • Presented upon request by enforcement officers at weigh stations or roadside inspections.

Failure to have a valid permit on hand may result in fines or being placed out of service until compliance is met.

7. Penalties for Operating Without a Fuel Permit

Operating in Washington without proper IFTA credentials or a Temporary Fuel Permit can result in:

  • Fines up to $100 or more per violation

  • Trip delays due to inspection holds

  • Additional taxes and penalties assessed retroactively

It’s always cheaper and easier to secure a permit before entering the state.

8. Final Thoughts

A Washington Temporary Fuel Permit is a simple, affordable solution for non-IFTA carriers making short trips into the state. Whether you’re hauling freight for a one-time delivery or testing new routes, this permit ensures your operation stays compliant and penalty-free.

Always keep your permit paperwork in the cab, follow Washington’s weight and fuel tax rules, and renew or upgrade to a full IFTA license if you operate in multiple states regularly.