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A white farm-plated truck is positioned in a field, surrounded by vibrant green hills. Text reads, "Crossing State Lines with Farm-plated Truck".

April 17, 2022

Do You Want To Cross State Lines With A Farm-Plated Truck?

If you are a farmer you must own a farm-plated truck. You might also face situations where you have to cross state lines with your grain or livestock. You could also be carrying farm equipment across state lines. Whatever the purpose is, getting into another state and back to your farm can be made far less complicated if you are aware of this information. Most states across the country would let you cross into their state lines with your farm plates that are already bolted or fixed on your trailers or tractors or trucks.

However, You May Need To Fulfill A Few Requirements Such As:

Having A USDOT Number

If you are a farmer and want to cross state lines, you must have a USDOT number. In case your vehicle has a GVWR of more than 10,000 LBS or if the combined gross vehicle weight rating of your truck and trailer or any other combination of automobile or adjoining apparatus is more than 10,000 lbs, you will need to apply for a USDOT number. 

If your gross weight or the combined weight of your tractor and trailer combination or any other similar apparatus comes out to be more than 26,000 LBS and you want to cross state lines with that vehicle, you will also have to register for the unified carrier registration program. In addition to this, you will also have to apply for your IFTA fuel tax.

Do Weight Distance Tax States Come Into The Picture?

A few requirements have been listed above but if you are looking to cross into any of the weight distance tax states such as New York, Oregon, and Kentucky, you will have to fulfill this requirement as well.

New York

If the gross vehicle weight of the automobile that you are driving including any of the combined truck or trailer combinations is more than 18,000 LBS, you will have to register for the New York Highway Use Tax.

Oregon

Oregon doesn’t require you to file for your IFTA fuel tax. You can pay the Oregon weight distance tax right at the border which turns out to be very convenient.

Kentucky

If you want to enter Kentucky, you will have to apply for a USDOT number and register for the IFTA fuel tax with your home state as well. This applies to you if the gross weight of your vehicle is more than 26,000 LBS. If the gross vehicle weight turns out to be more than 60,000 LBS when you are crossing into Kentucky, you must apply for the Kentucky KYU number as well.

The Unified Carrier Registration Program

If you intend to cross state lines with your trailer or truck or truck and trailer combination or tractor and trailer combination that has a weight of more than 26,000 lbs, you must have a USDOT number and the IFTA fuel tax as well. Registering for the Unified Carrier Registration program is also a requirement you will have to fulfill.

The driver must be at least 21 years old and must have a CDL driver’s license. In case you travel more than 100 air miles from your farm that is located in your home state, it is essential to fill out a logbook for the entire trip.

FAQ

Who Needs a USDOT Number?

Businesses that run commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds—whether carrying passengers or moving freight—are required to register with the FMCSA and obtain a USDOT number. This number serves as a unique identifier that allows federal regulators to track and review a company’s safety records.

How Much Does a USDOT Number Cost?

Acquiring a USDOT number is free when processing with the FMCSA. For a hassle-free process with one-on-one assistance, visit: https://dotcompliancegroup.com/usdot-number-application-form/ or call 972-232-2218.

What Documents and Information Are Required?

To obtain a USDOT number, you will need to provide your business and operational details and identification. This includes legal business name, physical and mailing address, contact information, EIN number and/or SSN, type of business, cargo/cargo type, and operating authority.

How Long Does It Take to Get a USDOT Number?

Applying for a DOT Number can be done as fast as a few minutes. To obtain your DOT number today, visit: https://dotcompliancegroup.com/usdot-number-application-form/ or call 972-232-2218.

What if I renewed my UCR with DOT Compliance Group last year?

If you renewed with us last year, please check your Customer portal. If auto-renewal is still active, your UCR will automatically renew. If you have turned off auto-renewal, you’ll need to submit your renewal here on this page.

If I Pre-Register for 2026 UCR, when will I be charged the total amount?

The total amount will be charged on October 1, 2026 for the 2026 year.

I am an Ag Exempt Farmer. Am I exempt from registering for UCR?

No, if you cross over state lines you are required to register for UCR. Your Ag exemption does not apply to UCR.

If I am an Amazon or Postal Service Contractor do I have to register for UCR?

Yes. Even though you do not cross state lines, your parcels do. That makes you an Interstate carrier and you would be required to register at the 0-2 fleet size.

Who is Exempt from UCR?

Private Motor Carriers of Passengers and All Motor Carriers operating solely within Hawaii, except those involved in moving household goods for individual shippers.

What states do not currently participate in UCR?

Currently Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Vermont, Wyoming, & the District of Columbia are non-participating states. (This information is current as of 6-16-2023. For the most up-to-date information check the FMCSA website.)

If my base state is a non-participating state that means UCR does not apply to me, correct?

No, if you operate as an interstate carrier and cross into a state that does participate, then you are required to register with UCR.

Who must comply with DOT regulations?

Any business operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) with a USDOT number is required to comply with DOT regulations. This requirement applies to motor carriers, freight forwarders, brokers, and companies operating under a hazardous materials permit.

What documents are required for a DOT audit?

Documents required during an inspection include but may not be limited to:

  • State driver’s license or commercial driver’s license
  • Medical examiner’s certificate
  • Record of duty status
  • Vehicle registrations
  • Periodic inspections document for all vehicles being operated
  • Shipping papers or bills of lading
  • Information for hazardous materials being transported
  • Proof of insurance

How can companies avoid common DOT violations?

Companies can avoid common DOT violations by maintaining accurate records, including driver logs, vehicle inspections, and required documents. Regular vehicle maintenance and pre-trip inspections help prevent safety-related violations. Proper training ensures drivers follow Hours-Of-Service rules, secure cargo correctly, and meet CDL and medical requirements. Using technology like ELDs and fleet management software can streamline compliance and reduce the risk of penalties.

What happens during a DOT compliance review?

During a DOT compliance review, or audit, officers review both the vehicle and the driver to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. They check registration, insurance, inspection reports, and inspect safety equipment and vehicle systems for proper operation. Drivers’ licenses, medical cards, hours-of-service records, and logbooks or ELDs are also examined. The inspection helps identify violations and ensure safety on the road.

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