DOT Guides › IFTA quarterly fuel tax return due dates
IFTA quarterly fuel tax return due dates
If you hold an IFTA license, you file a fuel tax return with your base state every quarter, even if you drove no miles.
| Quarter | Covers | Due |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Jan–Mar | April 30 |
| Q2 | Apr–Jun | July 31 |
| Q3 | Jul–Sep | October 31 |
| Q4 | Oct–Dec | January 31 |
When a due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, base jurisdictions generally accept the return on the next business day. Check with your base state.
The IFTA license and decals themselves renew annually; decals are generally valid through December 31.
What missing it can cost
Your base state can charge $50 or 10% of the late tax, whichever is greater, plus interest (for U.S. fleets, 2 points above the IRS underpayment rate), and can revoke your IFTA license if the delinquency is not resolved (IFTA Articles of Agreement R1220, R1230, R1270).
Sources: www.iftach.org · cdtfa.ca.gov
FAQ
Do I file if I had no miles?
Yes. IFTA licensees file a quarterly return even with zero miles.
Official sources
Last reviewed October 2026.