North Carolina

The IFTA diesel fuel tax rate in North Carolina is 41.0¢ per gallon, which is 12.3¢ higher than your home state (South Carolina: 28.8¢/gal). Rate increased Q1 2026; includes excise tax plus inspection 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.

North Carolina participates in IRP; registration through NC DMV. No separate state motor carrier permit; UCR registration required. Your IRP registration covers operating in North Carolina as long as it is listed on your cab card. If North Carolina is not on your cab card, you will need a temporary trip permit: $35 for temporary trip permit.

Toll facilities in North Carolina: Triangle Expressway (NC 540/NC 147); Monroe Expressway (US 74); I-77 Express Lanes (Charlotte). NC Quick Pass or E-ZPass accepted; Triangle Expressway truck tolls: $2-$6; I-77 Express Lanes: dynamic pricing; all-electronic tolling.

Single-trip permit: $10; annual permit: $100; NCDOT Oversize/Overweight Permit Unit. Permits required for loads over 8.5 ft wide, 13.5 ft high, 65 ft single, 80,000 lbs. 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; NC follows FHWA routing; restrictions through Charlotte and Raleigh metro areas. All drivers transporting hazardous materials must have a valid CDL with hazmat endorsement (HME), which requires a TSA background check. Check North Carolina's specific routing requirements before hauling hazmat loads through the state.

Weigh stations on I-95, I-85, I-77, I-40, I-26; 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 North Carolina DOT at https://www.ncdot.gov/ or the tax authority at https://www.ncdor.gov/. Additional motor carrier information: https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/title-registration/registration/Pages/irp.aspx.