Will You Be Charged Fuel Tax at the Pump?
Yes. When you buy diesel in Washington, the fuel price generally includes Washington fuel taxes at the pump, just like any other fuel purchase. The fuel permit does not exempt you from paying fuel tax on fuel purchases.
Then What Does the Fuel Permit Do?
The Washington Fuel Permit is designed for carriers that are not registered under IFTA. Instead of obtaining IFTA credentials and filing quarterly fuel tax reports, you can purchase a temporary fuel permit that authorizes operation in Washington for a limited period (typically 3 consecutive days).
Example
Suppose you enter Washington with a 80,000-pound truck and do not have IFTA:
- You purchase a Washington Fuel Permit.
- You fuel up in Spokane and pay the pump price, including applicable fuel taxes.
- You operate legally in Washington during the permit period.
- No separate Washington IFTA account is required for that trip.
Common Misunderstanding
Many carriers think a fuel permit means they can buy tax-free fuel. That's not how it works. The permit is a compliance mechanism for operating without IFTA credentials; it does not eliminate fuel taxes on fuel purchases.
Short Answer
Can I buy fuel with a Washington Fuel Permit?
Yes.
Will I pay fuel tax when purchasing fuel?
Yes, fuel taxes are generally included in the price at the pump.
Does the permit replace IFTA for a short trip?
Yes, that's one of its primary purposes for qualifying carriers operating temporarily in Washington.