Abbreviation: IRP

International Registration Plan

A cooperative vehicle registration agreement among U.S. states, D.C., and Canadian provinces that allows commercial vehicles to operate across member jurisdictions under a single apportioned registration plate.

Under IRP, registration fees are apportioned among jurisdictions based on miles operated in each. A carrier registers with their base jurisdiction and receives apportioned plates valid in all member jurisdictions. IRP applies to qualified motor vehicles (over 26,000 lbs GVWR, or 3+ axles) operating in two or more IRP member jurisdictions. Owner-operators with their own authority must obtain IRP registration from their base state.

Related: ifta , owner operator , operating authority , dot number

Last updated: May 29, 2026