Temporary HUT Permits vs Permanent HUT Permits

Nov. 26, 2025, 5:38 p.m.
New York’s Highway Use Tax (HUT) program requires most commercial carriers operating on public highways in the state to obtain either a Temporary HUT Permit or a Permanent HUT Certificate of Registration. While both allow you to operate legally in New York, they serve different purposes and have different requirements. Here’s a full breakdown.
Temporary HUT Permits

What Is a Temporary HUT Permit?

A Temporary HUT Permit is a short-term authorization that allows a qualified motor vehicle to operate in New York before obtaining a permanent HUT Certificate. It is commonly used by:

  • Out-of-state carriers entering NY occasionally

  • Carriers awaiting approval of their permanent HUT registration

  • One-time hauls or rare trips into the state

Key Features of Temporary HUT Permits

  • Validity:  Valid for 3 days

  • Issued instantly online after payment

  • No decal required

  • Ideal for occasional or emergency trips

  • Does not require setting up quarterly HUT filings unless additional travel occurs

What Is a Permanent HUT Permit (Certificate of Registration)?

A Permanent HUT Certificate is required for carriers that regularly operate qualified vehicles on NY highways. After registering, each vehicle must display a HUT decal.

Key Features of Permanent HUT Permits

  • Valid for a full 3-year HUT cycle (renewal required each cycle)

  • Mandatory for routine or frequent NY travel

  • Requires the carrier to file quarterly HUT tax returns

  • Must display a vehicle-specific decal

  • Applies to all qualified power units (usually over 18,000 lbs GVW)

Temporary vs. Permanent HUT: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Temporary HUT Permit Permanent HUT Certificate
Purpose Short-term NY entry Ongoing NY operations
Validity  3 days 3-year cycle
Vehicle Decal Not required Required
Quarterly Filings Not required unless more NY travel happens Required
Best For Occasional visits; waiting for permanent approval Regular NY operations
Cost Structure One-time permit fee Registration + ongoing tax filings

When Should Carriers Choose a Temporary HUT Permit?

Choose a temporary permit if:

  • You rarely enter New York

  • You have an unexpected load that needs immediate access

  • Your permanent HUT registration is still processing

  • You’re unsure whether you’ll continue operating in NY long-term

When Should Carriers Choose a Permanent HUT Certificate?

A permanent certificate is the better choice if:

  • New York is part of your regular operating area

  • Your vehicles frequently haul through or within NY

  • You want to stay fully compliant without repeated temporary permits

  • You need to manage several vehicles that run NY routes

Bottom Line

A Temporary HUT Permit provides quick, short-term access to New York highways, while a Permanent HUT Certificate is designed for carriers with ongoing operations in the state. Choosing the right option depends on your operational frequency and long-term plans in New York.