Get answers to common questions about trucking compliance, IFTA filing, IRP registration, Form 2290, DOT authority, and more.
What is IFTA and who needs to file it?
IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) is a cooperative agreement among U.S. states and Canadian provinces that simplifies fuel tax reporting for interstate motor carriers. If you operate a qualified motor vehicle (vehicle with two axles and a gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds, or three or more axles regardless of weight) across multiple jurisdictions, you need an IFTA license and must file quarterly fuel tax reports. Learn more about our IFTA filing services.
When are IFTA quarterly reports due?
IFTA quarterly reports are due on the last day of the month following the end of each quarter:
- Q1 (January - March): Due April 30
- Q2 (April - June): Due July 31
- Q3 (July - September): Due October 31
- Q4 (October - December): Due January 31
Late filings can result in penalties and interest charges.
What records do I need to keep for IFTA?
IFTA requires you to maintain detailed records for at least four years, including:
- Fuel purchase records (receipts showing date, location, gallons, fuel type, seller)
- Distance records (trip sheets, GPS logs, ELD data)
- Vehicle information and identification
- Trip origin and destination
- Route traveled
- Beginning and ending odometer/hubodometer readings
- Total miles traveled per jurisdiction
How long does IFTA filing take?
With proper documentation (fuel receipts, mileage logs), IFTA filing typically takes 1-2 business days when working with Consultran. The key is maintaining accurate quarterly records. We recommend using our services to ensure accurate calculations and timely filing to avoid penalties.
What is IRP registration and how does it work?
IRP (International Registration Plan) is a registration reciprocity agreement for commercial vehicles operating in more than one jurisdiction. Instead of registering your vehicle in each state you operate, IRP allows you to register once in your base jurisdiction and receive apportioned plates. Registration fees are distributed among the jurisdictions based on the percentage of miles you travel in each. See our IRP registration page for detailed information.
How much does IRP registration cost in Minnesota?
IRP registration costs vary based on several factors including vehicle weight, jurisdictions traveled, and mileage distribution. Base fees in Minnesota start around $200-300 per vehicle, but total costs depend on your specific operation. Contact Consultran at (651) 482-1124 for a detailed quote based on your fleet.
When is Form 2290 due and what vehicles require it?
Form 2290 (Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax) is due annually by August 31st for vehicles placed in service during July. For vehicles first used after July, the return is due by the last day of the month following the month of first use.
Form 2290 is required for highway motor vehicles with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. Vehicles traveling 5,000 miles or less (7,500 miles for agricultural vehicles) may be eligible for a tax suspension.
What happens if I miss the Form 2290 deadline?
Missing the Form 2290 deadline results in penalties and interest charges from the IRS. Additionally, you cannot renew your vehicle registration without a stamped Schedule 1 (proof of payment). Consultran can help you file late returns and minimize penalties.
What is the difference between a DOT number and MC number?
A DOT number is a unique identifier assigned by the FMCSA to companies that operate commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce. An MC (Motor Carrier) number is operating authority that permits a company to operate as a for-hire carrier transporting regulated commodities.
Private carriers only need a DOT number, while for-hire carriers need both DOT and MC numbers.
How much does it cost to get DOT authority?
Basic costs for obtaining DOT authority include:
- FMCSA filing fee: $300
- BOC-3 process agent designation: $50-150
- UCR registration (2026): $46-$44,836 (based on fleet size; brokers/forwarders/leasing companies pay $46)
- Insurance requirements: Minimum $750,000 for general freight
- State-specific authority fees (varies by state)
Consultran can help you navigate these requirements and ensure proper filing.
How long does it take to get DOT authority?
The FMCSA typically processes DOT/MC authority applications within 10-15 business days. However, you must wait an additional 18-20 days before your authority becomes active (to allow time for protests). Total timeline is approximately 4-6 weeks from application to active authority.
Do owner-operators need a drug testing program?
Yes, if you operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) requiring a CDL in interstate commerce, you must comply with FMCSA drug and alcohol testing regulations. This includes pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and return-to-duty testing. Consultran offers DOT drug testing consortium services to help owner-operators and small fleets comply with these requirements.
What is the DOT random testing rate?
The FMCSA requires annual random drug testing at a minimum rate of 50% of the average number of driver positions, and random alcohol testing at 10%. Tests must be truly random and spread throughout the year.
What is UCR and who needs to register?
UCR (Unified Carrier Registration) is an annual registration required for motor carriers, motor private carriers, brokers, freight forwarders, and leasing companies that operate in interstate commerce. For 2026, registration fees range from $46 (0-2 vehicles; also the amount brokers, forwarders, and leasing companies pay) up to $44,836 (1,001+ vehicles). UCR registration must be renewed annually.
How do I start a trucking company in Minnesota?
Starting a trucking company requires several key steps:
- Form a legal business entity (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
- Obtain a DOT number and MC authority (if for-hire)
- File BOC-3 process agent designation
- Secure proper insurance coverage
- Register for UCR
- Obtain IFTA and IRP credentials
- Implement a DOT drug testing program
- Ensure driver qualifications and vehicle inspections are compliant
Consultran can guide you through each step and handle the regulatory paperwork. Call us at (651) 482-1124 to get started.
Can Consultran help with compliance in states other than Minnesota?
Yes! While we are based in Roseville, Minnesota, we assist motor carriers nationwide with federal compliance requirements including IFTA, IRP, Form 2290, DOT authority, UCR, and drug testing. We can handle state-specific requirements for Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and other states throughout the country.
If you don't see your question answered here, please contact us. Our compliance experts are ready to help you navigate the complex world of trucking regulations.
Phone: (651) 482-1124
Email: consultran@consultran.com
Location: 2353 Rice Street, Suite 232, Roseville, MN 55113
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