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A cab card is a critical document in commercial trucking that serves as official proof of a truck’s apportioned registration under the International Registration Plan (IRP). If you operate across multiple U.S. states or Canadian provinces, you are required to carry a cab card in your vehicle. But what exactly does it contain, why is it essential, and how does it connect to other registrations like IRP plates, IFTA, and state-specific systems like the Texas IRP or Florida IRP?
This article answers all those questions and more, with complete guidance for fleet operators and owner-operators.
What Is a Cab Card?
A cab card is a registration document issued once your vehicle is registered under the IRP (International Registration Plan). It shows the jurisdictions where the vehicle is authorized to operate, along with the apportioned registration fees paid in each of those jurisdictions. Think of it as a passport for your truck.
If you’ve ever asked, “What is a cab card for truckers?” or “What is a cab card for truck drivers?”, the short answer is: it’s a mandatory document that proves you’ve met the regulatory requirements to operate interstate.
What Does the IRP Cab Card Include?
A valid IRP cab card will typically contain:
- IRP account number
- Vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- List of all jurisdictions where the vehicle is registered
- Apportioned plates number
- Weight limitations
- Cab card registration information (make, model, and year)
This is why the cab card is a registration card. It functions similarly to a car’s registration but for commercial vehicles that operate across state lines.
Learn more: Cab Card Is Registration Card
What Is IRP?
The International Registration Plan (IRP) is a cooperative agreement among the U.S., D.C., and Canadian provinces. It facilitates the equitable collection of apportioned registration fees based on the total distance traveled in each jurisdiction. This eliminates the need for individual state registrations.
IRP meaning is often misunderstood. While some refer to it as a tax, it is actually a registration and fee-distribution system.
Related reading: What Is IRP
Who Needs a Cab Card?
You must obtain a cab card if:
- You operate a commercial vehicle weighing over 26,000 pounds
- Your vehicle has three or more axles
- You cross state or international borders
This applies whether you operate a semi-truck, tractor-trailer, or intermodal vehicle. States like Texas, Florida, Indiana, New Jersey, and Illinois all require cab cards for IRP-eligible vehicles.
IRP Plates and Apportioned Registration
When you register under IRP, you receive IRP apportioned plates and a cab card. These plates are valid in all member jurisdictions.
Key related terms:
- Apportioned plates
- Apportioned plates requirements
- Apportioned plates Florida
- Apportioned plates Texas
- Apportioned tag agency
- Apportioned registration Texas
Each of these connects to your IRP account and must match what’s listed on your cab card.
See the full comparison: Truck Registration vs IFTA vs IRP
IRP State Services & Systems
Here are some key portals and services based on where you operate:
- Florida IRP: Florida IRP Login
- Texas IRP Login: TxIRP Login
- Illinois IRP Phone Number: Check with the Illinois Secretary of State
- Indiana IRP Phone Number: Call the Indiana BMV
- NJ IRP Login: Via New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
You can manage IRP renewal, access your IRP number, or view your IRP application details in these portals.
IRP Renewal and Cab Card Updates
The IRP registration renewal must be completed annually. Once renewed, your new cab card is issued reflecting any updates to your fleet, miles traveled, or jurisdictions.
You can perform your IRP renewal online via state portals like:
- Texas IRP Renewal Online
- Florida IRP Application Portal
If you’re using a third-party IRP registration service, ensure they are authorized and experienced.
Related: How to Get IFTA License
How to Get a Cab Card
To obtain a cab card, you need to:
- Open an IRP account in your base state
- Complete the IRP application
- Provide your insurance cab and compliance documents
- Pay the apportioned registration fees
Special instructions are available for:
- How do I get a cab card in Texas
- Texas cab card example
- Texas IRP Registration
- Texas IRP Online Access Application
For an example: Texas Cab Card
Cab Card Examples and Meaning
Many truckers look for a cab card example or wonder about cab card meaning. A cab card is not just a paper you carry in the truck—it’s a legal proof of your IRP registration. It shows that your vehicle has the proper authority to operate across borders.
Related Topics
- What does IRP stand for? — It stands for International Registration Plan
- Define IRP — A reciprocal agreement that redistributes registration fees
- What does IRP mean in trucking? — It determines how fees are shared among jurisdictions
- What is an IRP vehicle? — A commercial truck operating in multiple states or provinces
Compliance & Reports
Staying compliant means managing your transportation compliance basics, including:
- IRP insurance requirements
- Cab score and cab report monitoring
- Regular IRP renewal application submissions
- Ensuring your IRP office documentation is current
Learn more: Transportation Compliance Basics
Conclusion
A cab card is far more than just a document; it’s a vital part of your commercial vehicle registration and transportation compliance. Whether you operate in Illinois, Indiana, Texas, or Florida, you must understand how your IRP account, IRP plates, and cab card work together. By keeping these records accurate and current, you ensure smooth, legal operations across all jurisdictions.
Explore more: Commercial Trucking Documents Checklist
