When Do You Need a Temporary Fuel Permit in Washington?

Nov. 9, 2025, 6:35 p.m.
Operating a commercial vehicle through Washington State requires compliance with specific fuel tax regulations. If your vehicle or fleet isn’t registered under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA), you may need a Temporary Fuel Permit before entering or operating within the state.
Temporary Fuel Permit in Washington

What Is a Temporary Fuel Permit?

A Temporary Fuel Permit allows carriers who are not IFTA-licensed to legally travel in Washington and pay fuel taxes for a short period—typically covering up to three days (72 hours).
It ensures that all carriers, regardless of where they are based, contribute their fair share of fuel taxes for using Washington’s highways.

Who Needs a Temporary Fuel Permit?

You need a Washington Temporary Fuel Permit if:

  • Your commercial vehicle has two or more axles and a gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds (11,793 kg), and

  • You are not registered with IFTA, or

  • Your vehicle is not displaying valid IFTA decals or the license for your base jurisdiction.

This applies to out-of-state carriers, leased operators, or new companies that haven’t yet received their IFTA credentials.

Situations Requiring a Temporary Fuel Permit

  1. One-time or short-term deliveries into Washington.

  2. Rental or leased trucks not covered under your company’s IFTA license.

  3. Testing or demonstration vehicles used temporarily in the state.

  4. New carriers waiting for IFTA credentials to be processed.

  5. Interstate moves when you’re not normally operating in Washington.

How Long Is the Permit Valid?

Washington’s Temporary Fuel Permits are typically valid for three consecutive days.
During this period, the vehicle can legally enter and operate in Washington without IFTA decals, provided the trip complies with all other regulations.

Where to Obtain a Temporary Fuel Permit

You can purchase a Washington Temporary Fuel Permit through:

  • The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) authorized agents, or

  • Permit service providers approved by WSDOT, available 24/7 online or by phone.

Permits can often be issued instantly via email or fax once payment is made.

Cost of the Permit

The cost varies slightly depending on the service provider but generally ranges from $25 to $35 per permit. Additional service fees may apply.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating in Washington without a valid IFTA license or Temporary Fuel Permit can result in:

  • Fines or penalties,

  • Vehicle impoundment, or

  • Delays at ports of entry or weigh stations.

Compliance is essential to avoid costly disruptions to your operations.

Key Takeaway

If your truck or fleet is not IFTA-registered, and you’re traveling through Washington, you must obtain a Temporary Fuel Permit before entering the state.
This ensures compliance with Washington fuel tax laws and helps maintain smooth, uninterrupted operations on state highways.