What Are Trip & Fuel Permits in Washington?
Washington State requires certain out-of-state commercial vehicles to buy temporary permits if they are not properly registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) and/or don’t participate in the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA):
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Trip Permit — Allows operation of a commercial vehicle not fully registered in Washington on public highways for a short period (typically 3 days).
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Fuel Permit — Required if you do not pay fuel tax under IFTA and you’ll drive a vehicle in Washington that meets certain weight/axle thresholds.
These permits let carriers legally operate without full IRP/IFTA credentials for limited trips only.
When Do You Need a Trip Permit?
Out-of-state carriers need a Temporary Trip Permit when:
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The vehicle is not registered under IRP.
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You intend to operate that commercial vehicle in Washington State.
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It’s a one-time haul, newly purchased/leased vehicle, or temporary operation outside your base jurisdiction.
A trip permit lets you haul legally for up to 3 consecutive days.
When Do You Need a Fuel Permit?
You must also buy a Fuel Permit if:
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Your carrier does not participate in IFTA, and
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Your vehicle is diesel/propane powered and either:
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Has 2 axles and GVW over 26,000 lbs,
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Has 3 or more axles (any weight),
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Or is a combination of vehicles over 26,000 lbs.
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Fuel permits cover the fuel tax obligation while you’re in Washington for the permit period.
Validity & Limits
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Trip permits are typically valid for 3 consecutive days.
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You can’t use more than 3 trip permits per vehicle in any 30-day window.
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Fuel permits cover a 3-day period.
Fees (Approximate)
Washington’s official fees vary slightly by source, but generally:
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Trip Permits: $95
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Fuel Permits: $95
How to Obtain Them
You can buy trip & fuel permits through these channels:
1. https://www.washingtontruckingonline.com/
2. (206) 339-6683
Important Compliance Notes
Carry the permit in the vehicle at all times.
The vehicle must otherwise comply with state weight, size, and safety laws.
A trip permit doesn’t replace IRP or IFTA if you regularly operate in Washington — those registrations are required if you’re doing ongoing interstate commerce.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating without required permits when entering Washington can lead to:
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Fines (often several hundred dollars or more).
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Vehicle detainment or impoundment by enforcement (e.g., Washington State Patrol).
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Delivery delays until compliance is verified.
Quick Summary
| Situation | Needed Permit? |
|---|---|
| Operating non-IRP truck in WA for short haul | Trip Permit |
| No IFTA and hauling heavier commercial vehicle | Fuel Permit |
| Regular interstate trucking (ongoing) | IRP/IFTA registration, not temporary permits |