Launching a new interstate trucking operation involves navigating complex registration requirements, and for Indiana-based carriers, the Indiana Form INIRP-BN (State Form 55550) is a cornerstone of this process. Known as the “New Account Schedule BN,” this document is designed specifically for motor carriers establishing a new account under the International Registration Plan (IRP). Its primary function is to declare the jurisdictions (states and Canadian provinces) where your fleet intends to operate and to establish the estimated mileage for each, which directly impacts your registration fees. Unlike renewal forms that rely on historical data, this form allows new entrants to project their operations using standardized mileage estimates. Additionally, it serves as a formal declaration of your carrier type and a sworn affidavit of financial responsibility (insurance coverage), ensuring that your fleet meets Indiana’s legal requirements before hitting the road. Whether you are a private carrier hauling your own goods or a “for-hire” common carrier, filling out this form accurately is crucial to avoid registration delays and potential fines for non-compliance.
What Is Indiana Form INIRP-BN
The Indiana Form INIRP-BN is a registration schedule used by the Indiana Department of Revenue’s Motor Carrier Services Division. It is exclusively for new IRP accounts or for existing accounts adding a new fleet that has no prior mileage history. The form captures three critical sets of data:
- Fleet Information: Basic details about your business and where the fleet is based.
- Jurisdictional Selection: A checklist of all U.S. states and Canadian provinces where you want your vehicles to be proportionally registered. The form includes pre-calculated “estimated miles” for each jurisdiction, which are used to determine the fees for new fleets that lack actual mileage records.
- Financial Responsibility: A mandatory section where you provide proof of valid insurance or other financial backing, certifying that your vehicles are covered in case of accidents.
How To File Indiana Form INIRP-BN
This form is typically submitted as part of your initial IRP application packet. It should be filed with the Indiana Department of Revenue, Motor Carrier Services Division. Because it establishes your base registration fees, it must be processed before your apportioned license plates and cab cards can be issued. You should ensure all sections are complete, particularly the insurance information, as incomplete forms will be rejected. Once completed and signed, the form is usually mailed or delivered to the IRP Unit along with your other registration documents (like Schedule A). Always keep a copy of the completed form and your insurance policy details for your business records.
How To Complete Indiana Form INIRP-BN
Section 1: Fleet And Applicant Details
- Line 1: Registrant Name: Enter your business name exactly as it is registered with the Indiana Secretary of State or the Indiana Department of Revenue. If your IRP application name differs from your legal title name, you may need a lease agreement or title change.
- Lines 2-6: Fleet Street Address: Enter the physical street address where the fleet is based, if it is different from the main business address you provided on Schedule A. This includes the County, City, State, and ZIP Code.
- Lines 7-11: Fleet Mailing Address: Enter the mailing address where you want to receive credentials (plates, stickers) and correspondence for this specific fleet, if it differs from your main mailing address.
- Line 12: IRP Account Number: Enter your Indiana IRP Account Number if one has already been assigned.
- Line 13: Fleet Number: Enter the specific number assigned to this fleet, if applicable.
- Line 14: New Account: Mark the “Yes” box if this is a new account application.
- Line 15: Type of Carrier: You must check only one box that best describes your operation:
- Private Carrier: Hauling your own goods.
- Exempt Commodity Carrier: Hauling specific exempt goods.
- “For Hire” Carrier (Common Carrier): Hauling goods for others for a fee.
- Household Goods Carrier: Specializing in moving personal household items.
Section 2: Jurisdiction Selection
This section contains a list of all IRP member jurisdictions (states and provinces) with their two-letter codes (e.g., AL for Alabama, ON for Ontario).
- Action: Place an X in the column next to every jurisdiction where you want proportional registration.
- Mileage: The form displays pre-set estimated mileage figures for each jurisdiction (e.g., AL is 1,735, CA is 4,422). These standard estimates are used for new fleets without history. You generally do not need to change these unless instructed otherwise.
- Total Fleet Miles: At the bottom, there is a summary section for official use to calculate Indiana Miles and Total Fleet Miles.
Section 3: Mileage Period And Insurance
- Line 16: Reporting Period: Enter the year for the mileage reporting period. This typically covers July 1 of one year through June 30 of the next.
- Certification: Read the perjury statement carefully. By signing, you verify the information is true and that you have financial responsibility (insurance).
- I agree: Check “Yes” to confirm your agreement.
- Signature: The owner or responsible officer must sign and date the form, and provide their job title.
- Insurance Information: You must provide details about your financial responsibility:
- Name of Your Insurance Company: Enter the full name of the insurer, not the local agency.
- Policy Number: Enter your active policy number. Note: If you are self-insured or have an Indiana Motor Carrier Authority (IMCA) number, enter that number here instead. If you have a bond deposited with the Treasurer, write “BOND” in the company name area.
- Insurance Company Telephone Number & Address: Provide the contact details for the insurer.
Warning: Falsifying the financial responsibility section is a serious offense punishable by jail time, fines up to $10,000, and driver’s license suspension.