How UCR differs from IRP and IFTA

Dec. 20, 2025, 4:59 p.m.
Understanding the difference between UCR, IRP, and IFTA is critical for carriers operating across state lines. While they’re often mentioned together, they serve very different purposes.
How UCR differs from IRP and IFTA

UCR (Unified Carrier Registration)

Purpose: Regulatory registration
Who it applies to:

  • Interstate motor carriers

  • Freight brokers

  • Freight forwarders

  • Leasing companies

Key points:

  • Annual registration based on fleet size

  • No plates, decals, or mileage reporting

  • Required even if you operate only occasionally in interstate commerce

  • Funds state enforcement and safety programs

 Think of UCR as a permission-to-operate registration, not a tax or plate program.

 IRP (International Registration Plan)

Purpose: Vehicle registration & plate apportionment
Who it applies to:

  • Interstate carriers with vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVW

  • Vehicles with 3+ axles, regardless of weight

Key points:

  • Provides apportioned license plates

  • Fees are divided among states based on miles driven

  • Requires annual renewal and mileage records

  • Does not apply to brokers

 IRP determines where and how your truck is plated.

 IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement)

Purpose: Fuel tax reporting
Who it applies to:

  • Interstate carriers operating qualified motor vehicles

Key points:

  • Quarterly fuel tax reporting

  • Tracks fuel purchased vs miles driven in each state

  • Issues IFTA decals for vehicles

  • Ensures fuel taxes are fairly distributed among states

 IFTA controls fuel tax compliance, not registration.

 Side-by-Side Comparison

Program Main Purpose Applies To Reporting Required Plates/Decals
UCR Regulatory registration Carriers, brokers No No
IRP Vehicle registration Carriers only Annual mileage Apportioned plates
IFTA Fuel tax reporting Carriers only Quarterly fuel reports Fuel decals

 Common Misconceptions

  •  “I have IRP, so I don’t need UCR” → Incorrect

  •  “Brokers don’t need UCR” → Incorrect

  •  “IFTA covers registration” → Incorrect

Each program is separate and mandatory if you meet the criteria.

 Final Takeaway

If you operate interstate:

  • UCR = authority-based compliance

  • IRP = registration & plates

  • IFTA = fuel taxes

Most interstate carriers need all three, while brokers usually need UCR only.

 

https://plan.ucr.gov/