How to Renew Your Trucking Permits Hassle‑Free in 2026

The essential 2026 guide for carriers who want to stay compliant and stress‑free.

Renewing your key permits shouldn’t be a last‑minute scramble. Use this guide to stay ahead, avoid fees, and keep your business rolling smoothly.

1. 2026 Renewal Deadlines You Can’t Miss

✔️ Form 2290 (Heavy Vehicle Use Tax)

• Due each year between July 1 and August 31.
  
• Required for IRP and other state tags.

✔️ IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement)

• Decals and license expire December 31.
  
• Required if you operate across multiple states.

✔️ UCR (Unified Carrier Registration)

• Annual fee due by December 31.
  
• Law enforcement checks it.

✔️ MCS‑150 Biennial DOT Update

• Required every 2 years, even if no operational changes.
  
• Failure may lead to DOT number suspension.

✔️ NM WDT (New Mexico Weight Distance Tax)

• Applies if you travel through New Mexico.
  
• Quarterly filings, annual renewal.

✔️ KYU (Kentucky Weight‑Distance Tax Inventory Update)

• Required if you use Kentucky roads with vehicles over 59,999 lbs combined.
  
• Must keep your inventory list current and file quarterly. (Drive KY)
  
• Not renewing or not updating inventory triggers serious penalties. (TSNAmerica)

✔️ FMCSA Random Drug & Alcohol Program

• Mandatory if you operate under an active DOT number.
  
• Must be maintained year‑round.

✔️ Corporate Filings

• Annual registration/report, depending on your jurisdiction.

Ensures your LLC or corporation remains active and in good standing.

2. Documents You’ll Need

Have these ready for an efficient renewal process:

• EIN or SSN
  
• USDOT / MC number
  
• VIN
  
• Gross vehicle weight
  
• State registration
  
• Insurance details
  
• Active corporate status
  
• For KYU: updated vehicle list with VINs, plates, weights.

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect VIN entries
  
• Wrong vehicle weight declarations
  
• DOT number inactive or flagged
  
• Delayed filing
  
• For KYU: failing to update vehicle inventory or missing quarterly filings

4. Let CDL Services Handle It All

Our team will manage:

• Document review and submission
  
• Liaison with federal/state agencies
  
• Permits 2290, IFTA, UCR, IRP, NM WDT, KYU
  
• Compliance tracking
  
• Support in case of issues
  

5. Don’t Wait – Renew Early

Beat the rush, stay compliant:

• Avoid late‑filing penalties
  
• Ensure timely issuance of decals/licenses
  
• Keep operations uninterrupted and legal