Trip permits

What is a trip permit?

Trip permits allow vehicle owners to operate their unlicensed vehicles on public highways. A vehicle is considered unlicensed if:

  • The vehicle tabs are expired.
  • or
  • The current gross weight isn’t enough for the load being carried.

Vehicles that qualify

  • You can get a trip permit for:
    • Any 1 vehicle up to 3 times in any 30-day period.
    • Any 1 recreational vehicle (RV) up to 2 times in a 1-year period. Recreational vehicles include motor homes, travel trailers, camp trailers, and campers.
  • You can’t get a trip permit for non-highway and off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles and ORV use class vehicles. The permits are only for vehicles being used on public highways.

How to get a trip permit

Visit any vehicle licensing office to purchase a trip permit.

  • Please bring along cash or check to pay the fees. Each trip permit costs $25 (some offices may charge an additional service fee).
  • No exchanges, refunds, or credits are given for trip permits once they have been purchased.

How to use a trip permit

Each trip permit is valid for 3 consecutive days, beginning with the first day of use.

  • You must complete, sign, and date the trip permit before you operate the vehicle.
  • Any correction or alteration of data on the permit invalidates it.

Related laws and rules

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