Washington Entry Requirements for New York Based Motor Carriers

Dec. 25, 2025, 4:14 p.m.
If you operate a New York–based trucking company and plan to enter Washington State, you must meet specific state and federal entry requirements before crossing the border. Washington has strict enforcement at weigh stations and ports of entry, and non-compliance can lead to fines, delays, or out-of-service orders.
Washington Permits for New York Carriers

For Washington Trip and Fuel Permits visit here - https://www.washingtontruckingonline.com/

 

1. Interstate Operating Authority

New York carriers entering Washington for interstate commerce must have:

  • A valid USDOT number

  • Active FMCSA operating authority (for-hire carriers)

  • Proper carrier registration under UCR

Washington recognizes federal authority, but proof must be available in the vehicle.


2. IRP Registration or Washington Trip Permit

 IRP Apportionment

  • Vehicles must be registered under IRP with Washington listed on the cab card

  • If Washington is not included, you must obtain a Washington trip permit

 Trip Permit

  • Required for non-IRP or incomplete IRP registrations

  • Must be purchased before or at entry


 3. IFTA Fuel Tax Compliance

New York carriers operating in Washington must have:

  • Valid IFTA license

  • Properly displayed IFTA decals

  • Accurate fuel and mileage records

If not IFTA-registered, a temporary fuel permit may be required.

 


 5. Ports of Entry & Weigh Stations

All commercial vehicles must:

  • Stop at open Washington weigh stations

  • Present credentials upon request

  • Comply with weight, safety, and tax inspections

Washington State Patrol conducts roadside and port-of-entry enforcement statewide.


 6. Oversize & Overweight Permits

New York carriers hauling loads exceeding Washington legal limits must obtain:

  • Oversize/overweight permits before travel

  • Approved routing and travel time authorization

Permits are required even for one-time trips.


 7. Documents Drivers Must Carry

Drivers should have immediate access to:

  • IRP cab card or trip permit

  • IFTA license & decals

  • Proof of WMT registration (if applicable)

  • ELD records

  • Vehicle inspection reports

  • Insurance documentation


 8. Enforcement & Penalties

Washington strictly enforces:

  • WMT compliance

  • Permit validity

  • Weight and safety regulations

Penalties may include:

  • Citations and fines

  • Back taxes and interest

  • Vehicle out-of-service orders

  • Permit suspensions


 Washington Entry Checklist for New York Carriers

 USDOT number & FMCSA authority
 IRP cab card including Washington or trip permit
 IFTA license & decals
 Oversize/overweight permits (if applicable)
 Complete driver and vehicle documentation


 Key Takeaway

For New York-based motor carriers, entering Washington requires more than just IRP and IFTA. Trip permits, and strict port-of-entry compliance are critical to operating legally and avoiding costly enforcement actions.

 

https://www.dot.ny.gov/divisions/operating/osss/truck/driver