Texas

The IFTA diesel fuel tax rate in Texas is 20.0¢ per gallon, which is 9.6¢ lower than your home state (Montana: 29.6¢/gal). Low rate; flat excise tax; no state income tax keeps fuel tax low. 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.

Texas participates in IRP; registration through TxDMV. Texas intrastate motor carrier operating authority through TxDMV; registration required for vehicles over 26,000 lbs. Your IRP registration covers operating in Texas as long as it is listed on your cab card. If Texas is not on your cab card, you will need a temporary trip permit: $25 for 72-hour temporary trip permit; available online through TxDMV.

Toll facilities in Texas: Extensive toll network: Dallas North Tollway, Sam Houston Tollway, Hardy Toll Road, SH 130 (Austin bypass), NTTA system (Dallas-Fort Worth), CTRMA (Austin), HCTRA (Houston), multiple managed lanes. SH 130 truck toll: ~$20 for full length; Dallas-Fort Worth toll system extensive with TollTag; Houston HCTRA system uses EZ TAG; truck tolls $2-$15 per plaza depending on road and axles.

Single-trip permit: $30; annual permit: $120; TxDMV Motor Carrier Division; self-issue available for routine loads. Permits required for loads over 8.5 ft wide, 14 ft high, 65 ft single, 80,000 lbs; Texas OS/OW permit system is comprehensive. 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; Texas DPS enforces hazmat routing; restrictions through Houston Ship Channel area, Dallas-Fort Worth metro, and border crossings. All drivers transporting hazardous materials must have a valid CDL with hazmat endorsement (HME), which requires a TSA background check. Check Texas's specific routing requirements before hauling hazmat loads through the state.

Multiple weigh stations and DPS inspection sites statewide; stations on I-10, I-20, I-35, I-45; border inspection 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 Texas DOT at https://www.txdot.gov/ or the tax authority at https://comptroller.texas.gov/. Additional motor carrier information: https://www.txdmv.gov/motor-carriers.