Washington Truck Permits are Avaliable at https://www.washingtontruckingonline.com/
1. Interstate Operating Authority & USDOT Numbers
All New Mexico carriers that transport freight across state lines—including into Washington—must have:
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A valid USDOT Number
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Appropriate interstate operating authority (MC number) from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
These federal credentials authorize legal interstate operations and are required before entering Washington.
2. Washington Permits & Registrations
IFTA – Fuel Tax
Washington participates in the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). New Mexico carriers that operate in Washington must:
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Be IFTA-registered in New Mexico
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Report Washington miles and fuel use on quarterly IFTA returns
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Pay the appropriate fuel tax unless using valid trip permits
IFTA simplifies fuel tax reporting across all member states.
IRP – Apportioned Registration
Carriers with regular operations in Washington should participate in the International Registration Plan (IRP):
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Vehicles operating extensively in Washington must be included in apportioned registration
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IRP allows carriers to legally operate in multiple states with apportioned plates
Short-term or intermittent trips may not require IRP if carrier qualifies for trip permits.
Washington Trip Permits
Out-of-state carriers can obtain Washington trip permits if they are not IRP or IFTA-registered for Washington mileage. These permits:
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Cover short stays or limited operations
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Are typically obtained online through the Washington Department of Licensing or at ports of entry
Check weight, unit count, and trip duration requirements before purchasing permits.
3. Weight, Height & Size Limits
Washington has state-specific:
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Weight limits
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Height and length restrictions
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Bridge and roadway load postings
Before entering, verify that your equipment complies with Washington standards and obtain any necessary oversize/overweight permits for loads beyond legal dimensions.
4. Insurance Requirements
To legally operate in Washington, carriers must maintain:
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Minimum commercial liability insurance per FMCSA and state standards
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Proof of insurance must be current and available for inspection
Insurance filings are verified through the FMCSA SAFER system.
5. UCR – Unified Carrier Registration
Federal law requires interstate carriers to enroll in the UCR program. If your carrier operates in more than one state:
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You must register annually at https://www.fmcsa.me/
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Pay fees based on fleet size
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Carry your UCR certificate during operations
Washington law enforcement routinely checks UCR during roadside inspections.
6. ELD & Safety Compliance
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and recordkeeping must meet FMCSA standards. Washington inspectors will check:
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Logs
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ELD device compliance
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Supporting documentation during inspections
Ensure drivers are trained and equipment is properly configured.
7. Washington Weigh Stations & Enforcement
Washington State Patrol and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers conduct:
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Scale house checks
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Roadside inspections
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Safety and compliance enforcement
Drivers should be prepared to present:
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USDOT/MC numbers
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IFTA/IRP credentials
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Insurance proof
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UCR certificate
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Permits relevant to trip
8. Penalties & Violations
Failure to comply with Washington’s requirements can result in:
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Fines and civil penalties
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Out-of-service orders
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Delays in freight movement
Early compliance prevents costly interruptions.
Quick Compliance Checklist
Before entering Washington, confirm:
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USDOT and interstate authority are active
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IFTA registration and reporting plan includes Washington miles
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IRP registration (if required) is current
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Washington trip permits obtained (if needed)
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UCR registration and certificate on hand
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Minimum insurance coverage is in place
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ELD and logbooks are FMCSA-compliant
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Weight/oversize permits (if necessary) are obtained