If your commercial vehicles travel outside of Manitoba for business—whether across Canada or into the U.S.—you need to be aware of the International Registration Plan (IRP). This program is essential for ensuring your fleet remains compliant while operating across multiple jurisdictions. Here’s what Manitoba carriers need to know about IRP and how to register under the plan.
The IRP is a cooperative agreement among most Canadian provinces and U.S. states that simplifies the registration process for commercial vehicles traveling across jurisdictions. Instead of obtaining separate vehicle registration in each region your vehicle operates, the IRP allows you to register once in your home jurisdiction and pay fees that are prorated based on the distance your vehicles travel in each participating jurisdiction.
Once registered, you’ll receive an IRP plate and a cab card for each qualified vehicle. The cab card lists all jurisdictions where the vehicle is allowed to operate under the plan.
You must register under the IRP if:
Your commercial vehicle travels in two or more IRP jurisdictions (including U.S. states)
It meets one of the following criteria:
Has a gross vehicle weight over 11,793 kg (26,000 lbs)
Has three or more axles, regardless of weight
Is used in combination (such as a tractor-trailer) with a combined weight over 11,793 kg
Smaller vehicles used for cross-border business may also voluntarily register under IRP to streamline compliance.
Registering for IRP in Manitoba involves several steps and some planning ahead. Here’s what to do:
1. Contact Your Insurance Broker Early
Before you can get IRP plates, your vehicle must be properly insured. Talk to your insurance broker early in the process to ensure your coverage meets the requirements for IRP registration. You’ll need to show valid proof of insurance before plates can be issued.
2. Set Up an IRP Account with MPI
Reach out to Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) to open an IRP account. This will involve providing business documentation to prove you’re based in Manitoba, such as:
Business license
Utility bills
Manitoba address verification
3. Prepare the Required Documents
You’ll need:
Proof of ownership (vehicle registration documents)
Valid commercial vehicle insurance
Vehicle specifications (weight, make, model, VIN, etc.)
Jurisdictional travel estimates or mileage data
4. Estimate Jurisdictional Travel
MPI will require an estimate of how much you plan to travel in each jurisdiction (province/state). If renewing, you must submit actual mileage records from the prior year.
5. Pay Your Fees
IRP fees are prorated based on the percentage of travel in each jurisdiction. MPI will calculate the total amount due and issue the IRP plate and cab card once payment and documents are complete.
Under the IRP, you’re required to keep detailed records of mileage in each jurisdiction your vehicles operate in. These records are critical for annual renewals and are subject to audit.
Ensure that:
Drivers record mileage per jurisdiction daily
Logs are stored securely and backed up
Mileage software or manual logs are accurate and consistent
IRP registration can feel complex at first, but it’s a vital step in keeping your commercial vehicles compliant and operating efficiently across borders. Planning ahead, especially by coordinating with your insurance broker, will save time and help avoid costly delays.
If you’re unsure where to start or need help with documentation, don’t hesitate to contact Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) or a fleet licensing consultant familiar with IRP requirements.
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