If you are a trucking company operating out of Ontario, Canada, you may need to register for an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) license in the province.

Not based here? Click here to obtain a general guide on how to calculate your IFTA miles & fuel tax.

If you were wondering whether or not you're exempt, know that you must register and file for IFTA if you have:

  • A vehicle with three or more axles
  • A vehicle that exceeds 11,767 kg or 26,000 lbs

Table of Contents

  • How to register for an IFTA license in Ontario
  • Ontario IFTA License Costs, Fees, and Penalties
  • Ontario IFTA License Renewal
  • How to File Ontario IFTA
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How to register for an IFTA license in Ontario

Ontario is your base jurisdiction for IFTA licensing and reporting if you:

  • you operate the vehicle from a place of business in Ontario
  • you keep the vehicle records in Ontario or will make the records available to the Ontario Ministry of Finance
  • the vehicle travels in Ontario and at least one other jurisdiction.

A motor carrier that enters Ontario with a qualified motor vehicle more than five times in a calendar year requires obtaining an IFTA license or interstate trucker license.

You can complete the Ontario IFTA application online at https://www.services.fin.gov.on.ca/OTP/Gentax/_/

‍You will need to fill out an Ontario Application for IFTA here.

Ontario IFTA License Costs, Fees, and Penalties

‍Cost & Fees

There is a required decal fee of $10 per set.

‍Penalties

If you do not file your IFTA tax return or pay any taxes owing, you may be charged interest and penalty, and your IFTA license may be cancelled.

A person committing an offence relating to the improper use of coloured fuel in Ontario is liable to a fine and related charges on first offence of $465. Fines of up to $1 million or imprisonment for up to two years are possible for other offences under the Fuel Tax Act, such as tampering with coloured fuel. Offenders will also be audited and may be assessed tax, penalties and interest.

Ontario IFTA License Renewal

Prior to the end of the year, a renewal application will be issued automatically to eligible IFTA licensees.

The licence and the decals are valid for one year from January 1st to December 31st, and need to be renewed each year.

Important Documents & Online Filing

Certified ELD for Ontario commercial motor vehicles

How to File Ontario IFTA

Under IFTA, you are required to file quarterly motor fuel tax reports with your base jurisdiction.

The schedule is as follows:

  • January to March: Due April 30
  • April to June: Due July 31
  • July to September: Due October 31
  • October to December: Due January 31

You can file IFTA quarterly tax reports online at Ontario Tax: https://www.services.fin.gov.on.ca/OTP/Gentax/_/

There is a guide on completing the Ontario IFTA filing here.

Learn more about Switchboard Mileage Calculator: a free PCMiler alternative to automating IFTA mileage reports

If you need additional help in filing your IFTA, we're happy to help.

Give us a shout at team@onswitchboard.com, and let us guide you and getting your IFTA taken care of.
Other States & Provinces
Illinois IFTA How-to Guide
Québec IFTA How-to Guide
California IFTA How-to Guide
Virginia IFTA How-to Guide
Michigan IFTA How-to Guide
Washington IFTA How-to Guide
Ohio IFTA How-to Guide
Alberta IFTA How-to Guide
Ontario IFTA How-to Guide
British Columbia IFTA How-to Guide
Texas IFTA How-to Guide
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