MC 522 I Form – The MC 522 I Form, officially titled “Agreement to Prepare and Maintain Records in Accordance with International Registration Plan and California Apportionment Requirements,” is a mandatory California DMV document for motor carriers participating in the International Registration Plan (IRP). It serves as a formal agreement between the registrant and the state, confirming that the carrier will keep accurate operational records to support apportioned vehicle registration.
This one-page form is required for both new IRP applications and annual renewals in California. Without a properly signed MC 522 I, your IRP application will not be processed, and California operating authority will not be granted.
Why the MC 522 I Form Is Required for California IRP Registrations?
California participates in the IRP to allow commercial vehicles that travel in two or more jurisdictions to register with a single base-state plate and cab card while paying fees apportioned by miles driven in each jurisdiction. The MC 522 I Form enforces the recordkeeping obligations outlined in the IRP and California Vehicle Code §8057.
By signing the form, you agree to maintain detailed distance, cost, and vehicle records that can be audited by the DMV. Failure to comply can result in substantial penalties: 20% of apportioned fees for a first offense, 50% for a second, and 100% for a third, plus interest.
Who Must Complete the MC 522 I IRP Apportionment Agreement?
You must submit the MC 522 I Form if you are:
- A California-based motor carrier filing for apportioned (IRP) registration
- Operating vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) or combined gross weight (CGW) typically 26,001 pounds or more that travel in California and at least one other jurisdiction
- Renewing an existing IRP account in California
Registration service agents cannot sign the form — it must be completed and signed by an authorized company official (corporate officer, owner, partner, or authorized employee).
Vehicles operating exclusively in one jurisdiction are not eligible for IRP apportionment and do not require this form.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the MC 522 I Form?
Filling out the MC 522 I is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Read the entire form — It outlines exact recordkeeping rules you are agreeing to follow.
- Enter Registrant Information — Provide your company name and IRP account number (if applicable).
- Provide Authorized Signer Details — Print the name of the authorized employee/officer, sign, enter title, city, state, ZIP code, and date.
- Do not leave fields blank — All required fields must be completed.
Important: The form explicitly states that a registration service agent may not sign on your behalf.
Key Recordkeeping Requirements Detailed in the MC 522 I Form
The MC 522 I Form lists precise records you must maintain for at least four years (current year + three prior years for distance records):
- Distance Records — Driver trip sheets/reports showing origin/destination, routes, odometer readings, total trip distance, and distance per jurisdiction (California requires routes and odometer readings).
- Monthly, Quarterly, and Yearly Summaries — By equipment number, jurisdiction, and fleet.
- Cost Records — Purchase invoices showing full purchase price (including FET, destination charges, trade-ins, and modifications) and purchase dates.
- Additional Requirements — For vehicles 10,000 lbs or less, certified unladen weight certificates may be needed.
All records must support the mileage and cost data reported on your IRP application and be available for audit within 30 days of a DMV request.
Official MC 522 I Form PDF Download (Latest Version)
Direct download link for the official MC 522 I PDF (Revision 12/2019):
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/03/MC-522-I-R12-2019-ASB-WWW.pdf
This is the current, DMV-approved version and can be filled out digitally or printed. Always download directly from the California DMV website to ensure you have the most up-to-date document.
How to Submit the MC 522 I With Your IRP Application?
Include the completed and signed MC 522 I Form with your:
- New IRP application (original registration)
- Annual renewal packet
Mail the full package to:
DMV Registration Operations Division, MS H160
P.O. Box 932320
Sacramento, CA 94232-3200
Keep a copy for your records. The DMV may also request it during any audit or supplemental registration.
Common Questions About the MC 522 I California Apportionment Agreement
Q: Is the MC 522 I Form required every year?
A: Yes — California requires it with every original and renewal application.
Q: Can I use a service agent to complete it?
A: No. Only an authorized company official may sign.
Q: What happens if I don’t keep the required records?
A: Penalties up to 100% of fees plus interest, and possible loss of IRP privileges.
Q: Where can I find more detailed guidance?
A: Refer to the official California IRP Handbook for comprehensive recordkeeping rules.
Benefits of Proper Compliance with the MC 522 I Form
Maintaining accurate records as agreed in the MC 522 I Form protects your business from audit penalties, ensures smooth IRP renewals, and supports accurate fee apportionment across all jurisdictions where you operate. It also demonstrates your commitment to regulatory compliance, which can be critical for fleet operations and future audits.
Get Your MC 522 I Form Today and Stay Compliant
The MC 522 I Form is a simple but essential part of California IRP registration. Download it directly from the official link above, complete it carefully, and include it with your next IRP application or renewal to avoid delays or penalties.
For questions, contact California DMV IRP Operations at (916) 657-7971 or visit the official IRP page: dmv.ca.gov IRP Program.
Stay compliant, protect your fleet, and keep your California apportioned plates valid — download your MC 522 I IRP California Apportionment Agreement PDF today.