IRP from A to Z

Everything you ever wanted to know about the IRP but were afraid to ask!

What is IRP?

The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a registration reciprocity agreement among states of the United States and provinces of Canada providing for payment of license fees on the basis of total distance operated in all jurisdictions.

What is an Apportioned (IRP) Registration?

Apportionment is required for vehicles operating in two or more International Registration Plan (IRP) member jurisdictions that have a combined gross weight of more than 26,000 pounds, including the weight of the vehicle and the maximum load, or is a power unit having three or more axles, regardless of weight. Commercial vehicles weighing less than 26,000 pounds operating intrastate in two or more jurisdictions must apportion.

What is a fleet?

A fleet is one or more Apportionable Vehicles registered in the same jurisdictions.

How much will an Apportioned (IRP) plate cost the first time it is purchased?

Because each jurisdiction has its own fee schedule and depending on the jurisdictions you are going to apportion the cost varies. After submitting an application, you will be provided with an invoice of the fee owed which will reflect the fee for each jurisdiction. The total amount due will be shown at the bottom of the invoice.

Where do I purchase an Apportioned (IRP) plate?

Apportion plates may only be purchased at the following location:

Secretary of State
Commercial and Farm Truck Division
501 S. Second St., Rm. 300
Springfield, IL 62756

Do I have to come to Springfield to apply for an apportioned (IRP) plate?

Since apportioned plates are only sold in Springfield, there are three options to process your application or make payment. The application or payment may be mailed to Springfield (allow 2-3 weeks for processing time), submitted by your remittance agent i.e. ALL ABOUT TRUCKS, INC or brought in person. Remitter agents like WE are bonded and licensed with the Secretary of State’s Office to process applications and submit payment. For fastest service you can make an appointment and come to Springfield. Appointments are available from 8:30 a.m. to noon on weekdays. Please check the holiday closings.

What documents do I need to apply for IRP plates for the first time?

If you’re applying with our help we'll do all the paper work for you.
The only thing that you need to bring is the appropriate paperwork:

·        Proof of ownership of the vehicle. Acceptable forms of proof include a copy of the title in the owner’s name, copies of both sides of the assigned title, a ST-556 tax form, bill of sale within six months of purchase (must be notarized if purchase was between individuals), or an invoice from a dealer signed by both the seller and buyer.

·        Receipted 2290 Schedule 1 (Heavy Vehicle Use Tax). If the vehicle is being registered at a gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more and it has been more than 60 days from the date of purchase.

·        USDOT Number

·        Proof of an established place of business. You must submit three documents, one of which must be a phone bill. Bills must not be more than 60 days old. Other acceptable forms are an Illinois driver's license, rental contract, real estate tax bill, utility bills, insurance documents and corporation papers. 

Can I receive a temporary permit to drive?

Once you have paid the original invoice and have an IRP file in good standing, you may purchase a 45-Day Temporary Apportionment Authorization permit. Permits are sold at certain Secretary of State facilities or wire services.

Can I add jurisdictions to my apportioned (IRP) fleet?

Jurisdictions may be added to your fleet at anytime during the year. If you reported actual mileage on your renewal, you must use those actual miles when adding the jurisdictions. To add jurisdictions without the actual mileage, use the Added Jurisdiction Estimated Mileage Chart in the IRP Manual. You also may provide your own estimates with justification.

Can I transfer my IRP plate to a new truck I just purchased?

IRP plates may be transferred to new units; however, a different unit number is required. You must provide proof of ownership along with the 2290 Schedule 1 if purchased over 60 days from the date of registration and the gross weight exceeds 55,000 pounds. The Registration Identification Card from the vehicle being transferred or an affirmation statement also is required.

How do I upgrade to a different weight?

Vehicles may be upgraded to a higher weight by submitting a supplemental application. Vehicles cannot be downgraded to lower weights. A supplemental application will be required to be submitted and the additional fees will be invoiced to the applicant. Immediate operation at the new weight may be done on a 45 Day Temporary Apportionment Authorization permit, with the application process following in the required time period.

If I drove on my Apportion (IRP) plate for six months and then sold the truck, can I obtain a refund?

Illinois statutes do not allow a refund on the remainder of unused Apportion registrations.

How long do I have to be under "Secured Funds"?

All new applicants are required to pay by secured funds for the first three years of registration. Acceptable forms of payment are cash, money order or certified check. Credit card payments may be made by telephone.

New Applicant Processing

What is required to purchase an apportion plate for the first time?

·        Proof of ownership of the vehicle

·        Receipted 2290 Schedule 1 (Heavy Vehicle Use Tax) if the vehicle is being registered at a gross vehicle weight of 55,000 pounds or more and it has been purchased more than 60 days from the date of purchase.

·        USDOT Number

·        Proof of Residence.

What is acceptable proof of ownership for a vehicle?

·        Copy of a title already issued in the owner’s name.

·        Copies of both sides of an assigned title not over 6 months old.

·        A ST-556 form (sales tax) from an Illinois dealer.

·        Bill of Sale not over 6 months old. Must be notarized if purchased between individuals. Invoices from dealers must be signed by both dealer and buyer in pre-printed signature areas.

What is required to establish Residence?

All applicants must provide a copy of a phone bill. Individuals must provide a copy of their Illinois driver’s license. Corporations must supply a copy of their Illinois corporation papers. Foreign corporations are required to file with the Secretary of State’s Office. In addition three of the following are required.

·        Utility bills (within 60 days of registration)

·        Rental or lease contract for property

·        Real Estate Tax Bill

·        Proof of Insurance

Do I need a 2290 Heavy Use Vehicle Form?

A current 2290 Schedule 1 form is required for vehicles weighing 55,000 pounds or more. The date on the form must be from July 1 to June 30 each year. The name must match the titled owner of the vehicle or have a visible tie to the owner’s name.

Can I add states to only certain vehicles in my firm?

No. If you add jurisdictions, they will be added to every vehicle in your fleet. You do have the option, however, of starting a new fleet for specific vehicles.

Do I have to pay now an invoice for the 2013 renewal?

The invoice for the 2013 renewal must be paid before April 1, 2011. Please pay attention to any special wording on your invoice. A certified check or secured funds required means that your personal or business check will not be accepted without an irrevocable letter of credit from the financial institution that the check is drawn upon. Other acceptable payments include cash (in person only), credit or debit cards, money orders or cashier’s checks.