Kentucky

The IFTA diesel fuel tax rate in Kentucky is 22.0¢ per gallon, which is 6.5¢ lower than your home state (Arkansas: 28.5¢/gal). Includes supplemental highway user tax; variable component based on average wholesale price. This rate is reported on your quarterly IFTA return and net taxes owed or credited are calculated based on miles driven vs. fuel purchased in each jurisdiction.

Kentucky participates in IRP; registration through KY Transportation Cabinet. Kentucky weight distance tax (KYU) required for trucks over 59,999 lbs; 2.85 cents per mile. Your IRP registration covers operating in Kentucky as long as it is listed on your cab card. If Kentucky is not on your cab card, you will need a temporary trip permit: $30 for 10-day temporary trip permit; KYU temporary permit required for heavy vehicles.

Toll facilities in Kentucky: Several toll bridges: Louisville I-65 bridges, Gene Snyder (I-265 section); Mountain Parkway (tolls ended). Louisville-area river crossings: $2-$12 per truck axle; RiverLink transponder required; toll-by-plate at higher rate.

Single-trip permit: $30; annual permit: $120; KYTC permits. Permits required for loads over 8.5 ft wide, 13.5 ft high, 65 ft single, 80,000 lbs; coal haul roads have separate regulations. Always obtain permits before entering the state with oversize or overweight loads, as fines for operating without proper permits can be substantial.

Federal hazmat requirements; restrictions through Louisville metro tunnels; designated hazmat routes on interstates. All drivers transporting hazardous materials must have a valid CDL with hazmat endorsement (HME), which requires a TSA background check. Check Kentucky's specific routing requirements before hauling hazmat loads through the state.

Weigh stations on I-75, I-65, I-64, I-71; KYU enforcement at weigh stations. Bypass programs available: PrePass, Drivewyze. Carriers with good safety records and proper credentials may qualify for bypass at equipped stations, saving time and fuel.

For the most current IFTA rates, permit fees, and operating requirements, visit the Kentucky DOT at https://transportation.ky.gov/ or the tax authority at https://revenue.ky.gov/. Additional motor carrier information: https://drive.ky.gov/motor-carriers/Pages/default.aspx.