How to Apply for an EIN for a Trucking Business in Washington

Jan. 9, 2026, 7:31 p.m.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS. Most trucking businesses in Washington need an EIN to operate legally, file taxes, hire drivers, and obtain permits.
EIN for a Trucking Business in Washington

For trucking permits in washington visit https://www.washingtontruckingonline.com/

 

1. Determine If Your Trucking Business Needs an EIN

You must apply for an EIN if your Washington trucking business:

  • Is an LLC, corporation, or partnership

  • Has or plans to hire employees

  • Files federal excise taxes

  • Registers with FMCSA, IFTA, IRP, or opens a business bank account

Sole owner-operators without employees may use an SSN, but an EIN is strongly recommended for compliance and privacy.

2. Gather Required Information Before Applying

Before starting the EIN application, have the following ready:

  • Legal business name (or owner’s name if sole proprietor)

  • Business structure (LLC, corporation, partnership, sole proprietor)

  • Responsible party’s name & SSN/ITIN

  • Business address (Washington or out-of-state)

  • Start date of the trucking business

  • Reason for applying (e.g., started a new business)

  • Industry type: Transportation / Trucking

3. Apply for an EIN Online (Fastest Method)

The online IRS application is the quickest and most common option.

Steps:

  1. Go to the https://www.einregister.online/

  2. Select your Application type

  3. Choose your business structure

  4. Enter business and responsible party details

  5. Submit the application

EIN is issued immediately after successful submission
 
 Available Monday–Friday during IRS hours

5. Use Your EIN for Trucking Registrations in Washington

Once issued, your EIN is required for:

  • FMCSA registration (USDOT & MC Number)

  • IFTA fuel tax registration

  • IRP apportioned plates

  • Washington UTC carrier authority

  • Business bank accounts

  • Insurance filings

  • Hiring drivers & payroll reporting

6. Common EIN Mistakes Trucking Businesses Should Avoid

  • Applying with the wrong business structure

  • Using a personal address instead of business address

  • Applying multiple times (creates duplicate EINs)

  • Entering incorrect owner information

  • Applying before officially forming an LLC or corporation

7. Do Out-of-State Trucking Companies Need an EIN for Washington?

Yes. Non-Washington trucking companies operating in Washington still need an EIN for:

  • FMCSA compliance

  • IFTA & IRP registration

  • Washington intrastate authority (if applicable)

 

Final Thoughts

Applying for an EIN is one of the first and most important steps when starting a trucking business in Washington. It enables legal operation, regulatory compliance, and smooth tax reporting.

EIN for a Trucking Business in Washington