Iowa

The IFTA diesel fuel tax rate in Iowa is 32.5¢ per gallon, which is 54.8¢ lower than your home state (California: 87.3¢/gal). Includes excise tax. 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.

Iowa participates in IRP; registration through Iowa DOT Motor Vehicle Division. No separate state operating permit; UCR registration required. Your IRP registration covers operating in Iowa as long as it is listed on your cab card. If Iowa is not on your cab card, you will need a temporary trip permit: $25 for temporary trip permit; available at weigh stations.

Single-trip permit: $10; annual permit: $25; Iowa DOT permit office. Competitive permit fees; overweight permits updated per Iowa HF 979 (2025); ton-fee may apply for overweight. 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 apply; Iowa DOT enforces routing guidelines. All drivers transporting hazardous materials must have a valid CDL with hazmat endorsement (HME), which requires a TSA background check. Check Iowa's specific routing requirements before hauling hazmat loads through the state.

Weigh stations on I-80, I-35, I-29; active enforcement. 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 Iowa DOT at https://iowadot.gov/ or the tax authority at https://tax.iowa.gov/. Additional motor carrier information: https://iowadot.gov/motor-carriers.