To obtain bond please call to (503) 386-4187
Who Must Obtain an Oregon HUT Bond?
You generally need a Highway Use Tax Bond if you:
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Operate commercial vehicles over 26,000 pounds
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Travel on Oregon highways subject to weight-mile tax
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Have a history of late payments or compliance issues
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Are required by ODOT to provide financial security
Both Oregon-based and out-of-state carriers may be required to post a bond.
Why Is the Bond Required?
The bond protects the State of Oregon by guaranteeing:
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Payment of weight-mile taxes
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Filing of accurate mileage reports
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Compliance with Oregon motor carrier regulations
If a carrier fails to pay taxes owed, ODOT can make a claim against the bond.
How Is the Bond Amount Determined?
ODOT determines the bond amount based on:
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Estimated monthly weight-mile tax liability
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Fleet size
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Past payment history
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Risk assessment
The required bond amount may increase if tax liability rises.
Surety Bond vs. Cash Deposit
Carriers typically have two options:
Surety Bond
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Purchased through a licensed surety company
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Pay a small percentage (premium) of the total bond amount
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Most common option
Cash Deposit
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Deposit the full required amount directly with ODOT
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Ties up working capital
Most carriers prefer a surety bond because it preserves cash flow.
What Happens If You Don’t Maintain the Bond?
If your bond is canceled or expires:
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ODOT may suspend your registration
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You may be prohibited from operating in Oregon
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Penalties and interest may apply
Continuous bond coverage is required for ongoing operations.
How Long Is the Bond Valid?
The Oregon Highway Use Tax Bond typically:
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Remains active as long as required by ODOT
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Must be renewed annually (depending on the surety provider)
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Can be adjusted if tax liability changes
When Is a Bond Not Required?
Some carriers may not need a bond if:
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They operate lighter vehicles not subject to weight-mile tax
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They consistently maintain strong compliance history
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They operate under temporary permits
However, ODOT has final authority in determining bond requirements.
Key Takeaway
The Oregon Highway Use Tax Bond is a compliance safeguard required by the Oregon Department of Transportation to ensure motor carriers pay their weight-mile taxes on time.
Understanding your bond requirements helps prevent costly penalties, operational disruptions, and registration suspensions.