If you’re stressing about your fuel tax decals right now, you’re not alone. This time of year, many who renewed their accounts under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) in December are wondering if they’ll get their new decals before the February 28 deadline.
The scenario usually goes something like this: “I ordered IFTA decals early in December from my state but still have not received them. I know the grace period to display them ends at the end of February. Is it possible to file for temporary decal permits?”
Many states take quite a while to send out the new decals, but they usually make sure to get them out by the end of February. If they’re having trouble with their systems or won’t make that deadline for some other reason, they usually post a notice at https://www.iftach.org/important-notices.php and ask enforcement to allow extra time.
Some states do offer temporary decal permits, but many do not. If you don’t receive your decals by the end of February, temporary fuel permits may be needed. Check with your state for available options.
Options for compliance
Carriers renewing their IFTA license and decals have a two-month grace period (January and February) to display the renewal IFTA license and decals.
To operate in IFTA jurisdictions during the first two months of 2025, carriers must display one of the following:
- A valid 2025 IFTA license and two IFTA decals issued by an IFTA member jurisdiction,
- A valid 2024 IFTA license and two IFTA decals from an IFTA member jurisdiction (only if the renewal application has been filed for 2025), or
- A valid trip permit from the IFTA jurisdiction in which they are operating.
Plan ahead to avoid the stress next year
For stress-free operation into a new calendar year, make a note to file your IFTA renewal application with your base jurisdiction well before December 31.
Carriers renewing credentials may operate with the IFTA decals and license two months prior to the effective date shown on the credentials. For example, your renewed license and decals effective January 1, 2026, can be displayed beginning November 1, 2025.
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Original article published by J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.