How IFTA Works in California
California is a member of the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA), which simplifies fuel use tax reporting for interstate motor carriers. If your base jurisdiction is California, you’ll apply for an IFTA license with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). Once licensed, you’ll file quarterly reports that detail all miles driven and fuel purchased in each IFTA member state or province.
Key points
- California-based carriers must display two IFTA decals (one on each side of the cab).
- You’ll receive one IFTA license copy for your records and one to keep in each qualified vehicle.
Quarterly fuel tax reports are filed electronically through CDTFA’s online services.
California IFTA Vehicle Requirements
Your vehicle must meet the official IFTA definition of a qualified motor vehicle, which includes:
- Two axles and a gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds (11,797 kilograms), or
- Has three or more axles, regardless of weight, or
- It is used in combination (such as a tractor-trailer) with a total gross vehicle weight over 26,000 pounds.
CA IFTA Renewal and Decals
FTA licenses and decals in California are valid for one calendar year - January 1 through December 31. Renewals typically open in November, and carriers are encouraged to renew early to avoid operating without valid credentials.
Renewal Steps
- Log in to your CDTFA online account.
- Confirm carrier information and renew your IFTA license.
- Order and apply new decals for each qualified vehicle.
- Keep a copy of your new IFTA license in every vehicle.
With IFTA.Online, renewing your IFTA in Arizona is simple. Just select your state and choose “IFTA Renewal” as the service type, and our team will handle the entire process for you.
Quarterly California IFTA Filing Requirements
As a California IFTA licensee, you must file a quarterly fuel use tax return with CDTFA, even if your fleet did not operate during that quarter (a “zero return”).
Your report must include a complete record of total miles driven in each jurisdiction, the total gallons of fuel purchased and consumed, and the details of all tax-paid fuel receipts by jurisdiction. It should also indicate whether any additional tax is due or if a refund is owed for the quarter.
Returns are filed and paid online through CDTFA. Late filing or late payment can result in a 10% penalty or $50 minimum fine, whichever is greater.
When Are Quarterly CA IFTA Returns Due?
| Quarter | Period Covered | Return Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | January to March | April 30 |
| Q2 | April to June | July 31 |
| Q3 | July to September | October 31 |
| Q4 | October to December | January 31 |
What to Expect from an IFTA Audit in California
The CDTFA conducts periodic audits to verify the accuracy of IFTA filings. During an audit, officials review mileage records, including trip sheets or electronic logs, along with fuel purchase receipts, invoices, and the quarterly reports filed through the IFTA system. All IFTA records must be maintained for at least four years, and failure to provide complete documentation during an audit can result in reassessed taxes, penalties, and interest.
Get Help with IFTA Filing in California with IFTA.Online
At IFTA.Online, we simplify every step of IFTA management for California carriers.
Whether you’re applying for your first license, renewing decals, or filing quarterly reports, our team handles the paperwork so you can stay focused on the road. Stay compliant, avoid penalties, and save time - let us handle your IFTA filings today.