permit to travel or promise to pay

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Can I really pay on the train if the only option is card payment?

• Thread starter py_megapixel
• Start date 3 Dec 2019

py_megapixel

Established member.

I fairly regularly make short journeys in the Northern penalty fare zone, purchasing my ticket before making a journey. Depending on the journey, the ticket price is rarely much more than around £5. Several stations local to me have just acquired Northern ticket machines, but they only accept cards. In addition, the ticket offices appear to be sticking to their scheduled opening hours less reliably. While I have a card, I prefer not to use it for very small transactions to avoid large amounts of clutter on my statement, I've had issues with the machine rejecting my card, and I don't always carry a card with me. I know the general consensus on here is that if you don't have a payment card, you can pay on the train, although I can't find anything referencing this in the NRCoT. But, if I do have my card on me, is there an obligation for me to use it to buy the ticket beforehand, or can I still use cash on the train? I'm rather worried that at some point I will be issued a penalty fare for this, and it sounds like it would be awfully complicated to attempt to appeal it, so I'd rather avoid it in the first place.  

RailUK Forums

Harpers Tate

I believe that Northern's machines will do the following: Work through the process as if you are buying the required ticket. When it comes to payment - the machine will offer you a non-card option (whatever phrase they use) which, if selected, will cause the issue of a (free) "Permit To Travel" voucher (ticket). You should always obtain one of these; presenting it to the conductor (etc) will render you eligible for a penalty-free onboard (or failing that, at destination) ticket purchase.  

py_megapixel said: I fairly regularly make short journeys in the Northern penalty fare zone, purchasing my ticket before making a journey. Depending on the journey, the ticket price is rarely much more than around £5. Several stations local to me have just acquired Northern ticket machines, but they only accept cards. In addition, the ticket offices appear to be sticking to their scheduled opening hours less reliably. While I have a card, I prefer not to use it for very small transactions to avoid large amounts of clutter on my statement, I've had issues with the machine rejecting my card, and I don't always carry a card with me. I know the general consensus on here is that if you don't have a payment card, you can pay on the train, although I can't find anything referencing this in the NRCoT. But, if I do have my card on me, is there an obligation for me to use it to buy the ticket beforehand, or can I still use cash on the train? I'm rather worried that at some point I will be issued a penalty fare for this, and it sounds like it would be awfully complicated to attempt to appeal it, so I'd rather avoid it in the first place. Click to expand...

There is a similar case for OP to read on (Oct 2019) https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/promise-to-pay-dispute.188280/  

Has anyone ever seen a Northern guard get fussy about not having a "promise to pay" when trying to pay on board with cash? In my travels around the north this summer, I saw only one person present a PtP to the guard, out of probably a hundred or more people who boarded the train and paid only when challenged - and roughly half of these paid by card despite the presence of the card-accepting TVMs.  

100andthirty

Harpers Tate said: I believe that Northern's machines will do the following: Work through the process as if you are buying the required ticket. When it comes to payment - the machine will offer you a non-card option (whatever phrase they use) which, if selected, will cause the issue of a (free) "Permit To Travel" voucher (ticket). You should always obtain one of these; presenting it to the conductor (etc) will render you eligible for a penalty-free onboard (or failing that, at destination) ticket purchase. Click to expand...

Veteran Member

100andthirty said: How is an ordinary punter expected to know this when confronted with a ticket machine that obviously doesn't have means to atm cash. Are there very clear and prominent notices describing exactly how to do this? Click to expand...

It does not matter if you have a card on you or not. What matters here is the customers chosen method of payment. It is your choice. So if you choose to pay with cash and the ticket machine does not accept cash, then you are entitled to pay on board with cash (of course if there is an open ticket office then you must use that). I would also advise obtaining a promise to pay notice if possible in these circumstances.  

gray1404 said: It does not matter if you have a card on you or not. What matters here is the customers chosen method of payment. It is your choice. So if you choose to pay with cash and the ticket machine does not accept cash, then you are entitled to pay on board with cash (of course if there is an open ticket office then you must use that). I would also advise obtaining a promise to pay notice if possible in these circumstances. Click to expand...

You can, but I wouldn't want to promise that at some point you won't get hassle for not buying with your card. For peace of mind I'd either use a card or an app to buy tickets personally in this situation: but you don't have to if you want to use cash.  

I now choose to pay by cash for my standard commute as I do a lot of travel for work and it makes the expense claim form filling easier if I keep all work transactions on my card. Each day I get a "Promise to Pay" at Rainford Station and IF the guard appears then pay cash on the train. I then transfer to Merseyrail where the Guards have always accepted them. I just explain that there was no Guard selling tickets on the Northern train and they happily tell me to purchase a ticket at destination. At some point I will run into revenue protection at Liverpool Central when transferring between Northern and Wirral lines and it will be interesting to see their approach. The last time I did encounter a revenue check, I was travelling on work tickets so had actually purchased on my card.  

Flying Snail

There is no compulsion to volunteer that you have a card on you and railway staff have no powers of search so this seems to be mainly a problem of people worrying too much about nothing. If the originating station has cash purchasing facilities use them, if it only has permit to travel/promise to pay use that, if none then offer cash at the first opportunity on-board, at changing station IF you have time or at destination. If confronted by revenue protection staff or questioned about not having a ticket give a correct journey and state the lack of cash purchasing facilities, do not lie but do not offer any extraneous irrelevant information such as having a card on you that you do not wish to or cannot use.  

Flying Snail said: There is no compulsion to volunteer that you have a card on you and railway staff have no powers of search so this seems to be mainly a problem of people worrying too much about nothing. Click to expand...

MikeWh said: Maybe, but if I open my wallet to get cash out it is likely that my array of bank/credit/lotalty cards is going to be seen. Click to expand...

Intermodal said: There is no obligation to pay by card if you wish to pay with cash instead and have cash ready. I would think that simply stating that you wish to pay with cash on this occasion should be more than enough of a satisfactory answer to any guard even if you did have a whole rucksack full of cards. Click to expand...

It's not a question of legal tender, as that has a much more restrictive definition that isn't applicable to ticket machine purchases.  

hkstudent said: You always have to right to pay in legal tender despite other forms of payment exist. Click to expand...

hkstudent said: , if TVM only accept cash but you only have card; then you actually can't travel, right? Click to expand...

Western Sunset

hkstudent said: You always have to right to pay in legal tender despite other forms of payment exist. But, if TVM only accept cash but you only have card; then you actually can't travel, right? Click to expand...

Forum Staff

Legal tender is not applicable. See: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/times_fares/ticket_types/45185.aspx for details of accepted payment methods.  

Failing to use a card-only TVM when you have a card that you are perfectly capable of using (personal card, have plenty of funds on, know the PIN to, etc.) and instead proposing to pay in cash may tend to indicate an intention to "pay only when challenged" which could, in theory at least, lead to a prosecution under the Regulation of Railways Act. No precedent has been set regarding this, nor, to my knowledge, whether a byelaw prosecution could succeed in those circumstances. In practice, of course, 99 times out of 100 guards will be more than happy to sell you a ticket and leave both parties to get on with their respective days.  

island said: Failing to use a card-only TVM when you have a card that you are perfectly capable of using (personal card, have plenty of funds on, know the PIN to, etc.) and instead proposing to pay in cash may tend to indicate an intention to "pay only when challenged" which could, in theory at least, lead to a prosecution under the Regulation of Railways Act. Click to expand...

island said: No precedent has been set regarding this Click to expand...

If it were proven that the passenger had no impediment to using his or her card and just felt like paying cash – which might be established in a number of ways, such as through questioning – then it is entirely possible that an RRA prosecution might ensue. Of course savvy passengers won’t give them that evidence. But not all passengers read this forum or are experts on railway law. Dismissing points as “absolute rubbish” because you disagree with them is beneath you, Mike.  

cactustwirly

island said: Failing to use a card-only TVM when you have a card that you are perfectly capable of using (personal card, have plenty of funds on, know the PIN to, etc.) and instead proposing to pay in cash may tend to indicate an intention to "pay only when challenged" which could, in theory at least, lead to a prosecution under the Regulation of Railways Act. No precedent has been set regarding this, nor, to my knowledge, whether a byelaw prosecution could succeed in those circumstances. In practice, of course, 99 times out of 100 guards will be more than happy to sell you a ticket and leave both parties to get on with their respective days. Click to expand...

Puffing Devil

cactustwirly said: No it couldn't, as the ToC would have to prove the intent, and paying by cash for a rail fare definitely isn't intent to avoid a rail fare. Click to expand...

TurbostarFan

On moderation.

yorkie said: Legal tender is not applicable. See: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/times_fares/ticket_types/45185.aspx for details of accepted payment methods. Click to expand...

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Reentry Permit FAQs: Your Most Common Questions Answered

As a U.S. immigration lawyer , I’ve helped many U.S. lawful permanent residents to get their reentry permit. After numerous consultations, I’ve noticed that many people have the same questions regarding reentry permits.

In this guide, I’m going to answer the most common questions that I am asked about reentry permits.

If you have any questions, or if you need help with your reentry permit, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected] . I’m very responsive via email and I’d be happy to help you.

1. Why do I need a reentry permit?

2. do i need a reentry permit even if i’m traveling for less than a year, 3. can i file my reentry permit application while i’m outside of the u.s., 4. how long will my reentry permit be valid for, 5. how much does the reentry permit application cost (what is the uscis filing fee), 6. how long does it take to get my reentry permit, 7. do i have to stay in the u.s. until my biometrics appointment, 8. can i get my reentry permit application expedited, 9. can i have my biometrics taken outside of the u.s., 10. can uscis use the biometrics they already have on file from before, 11. do my children have to do biometrics also, 12. how many times can i renew my reentry permit, 13. if i enter the u.s. before my reentry permit expires, can i use it to come back to the u.s. again before it expires, 14. if i need to reschedule my biometrics appointment, can i select the day that i want the new appointment to take place.

As a U.S. permanent resident (green card holder) you are allowed to travel outside of the U.S. However, certain travel can be harmful to your status. Here are some examples of travel that can be harmful to your status:

Travel Over 1 Year

If you leave the U.S. for over a year, your green card in no longer valid for readmission to the U.S. If you do not have a valid green card and you leave the U.S. for over a year, you would have to apply for a returning resident visa (SB-1) to re-enter the U.S. The SB-1 visa can be very difficult to obtain as it has multiple requirements that must be met.

With a valid reentry permit, you could seek re-admission to the U.S. without applying for a returning resident visa.

Travel Over 180 Days

If you leave the U.S. for over 180 days, when you seek re-admission to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may inspect and interrogate you to see whether you have been maintaining your permanent resident status or whether you have abandoned your status as a permanent resident.

In this case, a reentry permit helps to establish that you intend to remain a permanent resident and that you do not intend to abandon your green card.

Unable to Get a Passport from Home Country

In certain cases, you may need a reentry permit because you cannot get a passport from your home country.

If you cannot get a passport from your country, you may be able to use a reentry permit instead of a passport. The reentry permit is a small booklet with multiple pages to place entry/exit stamps. Many countries accept a reentry permit in place of a passport. To find out whether the country you plan to travel to will accept a reentry permit, you may contact their embassy or consulate in the U.S.

New Permanent Resident Planning to Travel (Even if for Less than 180 Days)

Another reason you may want to apply for your reentry permit is if you have recently become a permanent resident and you plan to travel (even if for less than 180 days). I have come across many situations where lawful permanent residents who recently got their green card left the U.S. for less than 180 days and were subject to more intense inspection upon re-entry to the U.S.

If you recently became a permanent resident and plan to travel (even if for less than 180 days) you may want to consider applying for a reentry permit.

Warned/Advised by CBP

If you are a U.S. permanent resident with a history of prolonged stays outside of the U.S. CBP may advise you that you are at risk of abandoning your lawful permanent resident status. If you are advised by CBP, then you should apply for a reentry permit to help protect your status. Please note that a reentry permit is not a guarantee that you will be readmitted to the U.S. But it can be helpful to protect your status.

Yes, as mentioned in my answer above, travel for less than a year can still put your status as a lawful permanent resident at risk.

There are three separate reasons why you may want a reentry permit (even if you are leaving the U.S. for than a year).

• Travel over 180 Days (please see above explanation)
• Unable to get passport from home country (please see above explanation)
• New permanent resident planning to travel even if for less than 180 days (please see above explanation)
• Warned/Advised by CBP (please see above explanation)

I am often asked if a reentry permit application can be filed while the applicant is outside of the U.S. The answer is no. If you are outside of the U.S. when your reentry permit application is filed, it will be denied . Even worse, your filing fee check will be cashed by USCIS. This means that you will have wasted $660. You must be in the U.S. when your reentry permit application is filed, received, and accepted by USCSIS . It is one of the most important requirements to get your reentry permit.

I often get asked how long the reentry permit will be valid for. The answer is: it depends.

A reentry permit is usually valid for 2 years . However, in certain cases, a reentry permit is valid for less than 2 years.

According to the immigration regulations, a reentry permit will only be valid for 1 year if since you became a permanent resident, or during the last 5 years (whichever is less), you have been outside of the U.S. for more than 4 years in total. CFR Section 223.2C2 .

Also, if you are a conditional permanent resident, your reentry permit may be issued for less than 2 years. A reentry permit cannot be issued for longer than your conditional permanent resident status. So, for example, if your conditional permanent resident status is set to expire in 18 months, you will not get a 2-year reentry permit. If approved, your reentry permit would be valid up until the last day of your conditional permanent resident status.

As of the time that I am writing this article, the USCIS filing fee for a reentry permit application for an adult (from age 14 to 79) is $660.

For applicants under 14 years old or over 79 years old, the USCIS filing fee for a reentry permit application is $575.

You can check current USCIS filing fees for a reentry permit application by clicking this link .

A reentry permit application typically takes between 3 to 5 months to get processed. You can check the current processing times by clicking this link .

There is some conflicting information on this particular question. Here are some excerpts to explain USCIS position toward leaving before the biometrics are completed:

• “Departure from the United States before a decision is made on an application for a Reentry Permit usually does not affect the application. However, if biometric collection is required and the applicant departs the United States before biometrics are collected, the application may be denied.” (USCIS Instructions for Form I-131)
• “Travel is not advisable. If an applicant leaves and comes back, his or her application may be denied while abroad, and he or she may not be able to get back into the country.” (USCIS “Questions and Answers: USCIS Biometric Changes for Reentry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents”)
• “If the [lawful permanent resident] departs from the U.S. while the I-131 is pending, but before the biometrics are taken, then the adjudication of the I-131 reentry permit application will not be affected as long as the applicant returns to the United States to attend the biometrics appointment before the first year of foreign travel has ended. In such case, the [lawful permanent resident] could apply for reentry to the United States using only his or her I-551 Permanent Resident Card if he has been absent for less than one year.” (USCIS “Questions and Answers: USCIS Biometric Changes for Reentry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents”)

As you can see from the above excerpts, there is conflicting information regarding whether you may leave the U.S. after your reentry permit application is filed but before your biometrics appointment.

In my experience, in certain cases it is ok to leave the U.S. after your reentry permit application is filed and then to return for your biometrics appointment. However, in certain cases, I would not recommend this.

To discuss the particular facts of your case, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected] .

It depends. USCIS grants expedited processing on a case by case basis. There are multiple reasons why USCIS may decide to expedite your reentry permit application; these reasons include:

• Urgent humanitarian crisis
• Compelling U.S. government interest
• USCIS error
• Severe financial loss to a company or person (if certain conditions are met)

If expedited processing is approved, your case can be adjudicated much quicker than standard processing times.

If you would like to request expedited processing of your reentry permit, there are additional steps that must be completed. I’d be happy to discuss these steps with you. Feel free to email me at [email protected] .

Very rarely. There are extremely rare exceptions where USCIS may permit biometrics to be taken outside of the U.S., but this is extremely rare.

No, even if you just had your biometrics taken by USCIS for some other reason (such as a green card renewal), you will still have to do biometrics again for your reentry permit application.

Children under 14 years old do not have to pay the biometrics fee of $85. However, USCIS may still request that they attend a biometrics appointment.

Technically you do not renew a reentry permit, instead, the process is to apply for a new reentry permit. There is no limit to the number of times you can apply for a reentry permit. I have personally come across people who have had 4 or more reentry permit.

However, it is important to know that if you have been outside of the U.S. for more than 4 years since getting your green card or within the last 5 years (whichever is less) your reentry permit will only be valid for 1 year instead of 2 years.

Yes, a reentry permit is valid for multiple entries. This means that you can continue to use your reentry permit to enter and exit the U.S. as long as it is stall valid and not expired.

If you cannot attend your biometrics appointment as scheduled, you may be able to reschedule the appointment. The new appointment must take place within 120 days from the day you filed your reentry permit application.

If you need to reschedule your biometrics appointment, you may request a day that you would like the new appointment to take place. There is no guarantee that USCIS will schedule the new biometrics appointment for the day that you requested. However, in many cases, if certain steps are followed, USCIS may reschedule the biometrics appointment for the day that is requested.

I hope that you found this information very helpful. If you have any questions about reentry permits or if you need help with your reentry permit, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected] . I’m very responsive via email and I would be happy to help you.

• USCIS “Questions and Answers: USCIS Biometric Changes for Reentry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents”
• Reentry Permit Guide: Everything to Know to get Your Reentry Permit
• Business Immigration: Law and Practice, 2 nd 2: Chapter 4
• USCIS Processing Times
• USCIS Expedite Criteria

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Essential Guide to Truck Trip Permits: Everything You Need to Know

Truck trip permits are temporary licenses that allow commercial trucks to travel in jurisdictions where they are not registered. These permits ensure that trucks comply with local regulations and pay appropriate taxes. They are commonly used by carriers to transport goods across different states or provinces.

1) What are Truck Trip Permits: All You Need to Know

2) how to obtain truck trip permits: a step-by-step guide, 3) understanding the importance of truck trip permits: explained, 4) truck trip permits vs. permanent registration: which is right for you, 5) common misconceptions about truck trip permits: debunked, 6) truck trip permits: the rules and regulations you should be aware of, 7) how to calculate the cost of truck trip permits: a helpful breakdown.

9) Top Tips for a Smooth Truck Trip Permit Application Process

10) the future of truck trip permits: emerging trends and technologies.

Truck trip permits are temporary permits that allow commercial trucks to operate on certain routes or jurisdictions where they don’t have permanent registration or authority. These permits are required when trucks need to travel outside of their home jurisdiction or when they exceed certain weight or size restrictions. Truck trip permits provide temporary authorization for trucks to travel legally and safely, ensuring compliance with various regulations and requirements. They typically have specific validity periods, fees, and conditions that vary depending on the jurisdiction. It is important for trucking companies and drivers to obtain the necessary truck trip permits to avoid penalties or legal issues while operating in unfamiliar areas.

To obtain truck trip permits, follow these steps:

1. Research permit requirements: Visit the relevant website or contact the transportation department of the state or country you will be traveling through. Understand the specific permits, fees, and any restrictions for your vehicle type and load.

2. Gather necessary documents: Typically, you will need documents such as vehicle registration, proof of insurance, driver’s license, and ownership documents. Make sure to have these ready before applying.

3. Fill out the application: Download or obtain the required permit application form. Fill it out accurately and completely, providing all the necessary information such as vehicle details, trip duration, routes, and load specifications.

4. Calculate fees: Determine the permit fees based on the distance traveled, number of days, and any additional factors mentioned in the application guidelines. Ensure you have the required payment method ready, such as credit card or check.

5. Submit the application: Review the application for any errors or missing information. Once satisfied, submit the completed application along with the required documents and fees to the appropriate authority as mentioned in the application guidelines. This can usually be done online, in person, or through mail.

6. Await approval: The permit authority will review your application, verify the information provided, and determine if any additional requirements are necessary. This process may take some time, so be patient.

7. Receive the permit: Once your application is approved, you will receive the truck trip permit. This may be in the form of a physical document or a digital copy that you can print or display electronically.

8. Adhere to permit conditions: Read the permit thoroughly and ensure you comply with any conditions or restrictions mentioned, such as weight limitations, specific routes, or time restrictions.

9. Carry and display the permit: Place the permit in a visible location, usually on the windshield, as required by the authority. This allows easy verification for authorities and helps avoid any unnecessary delays or penalties.

10. Renew or obtain additional permits if necessary: If your trip extends beyond the validity of the initial permit, ensure you renew it in a timely manner. If you need permits for subsequent trips, follow the same process again.

Remember, the process for obtaining truck trip permits may vary among different states, countries, or regions. It is essential to check the specific guidelines of the area you will be traveling through to ensure compliance.

Truck trip permits are an essential part of the transportation industry as they ensure compliance with state regulations and promote safety on the roads. These permits are necessary for commercial trucks to legally operate in different jurisdictions, allowing them to transport goods across state lines.

One of the main reasons why truck trip permits are important is that they provide revenue to states. Trucking companies are required to purchase permits to compensate for their use of state infrastructure such as roads and bridges. This revenue is then used to maintain and improve the transportation system, benefiting all road users.

Another vital aspect is that truck trip permits help ensure compliance with weight and size regulations. Different states have varying restrictions on truck dimensions, axle weights, and overall weight limits. Trucking companies need to obtain permits that account for these restrictions in each state they pass through. This prevents trucks from causing damage to roads and bridges, improving safety for all motorists.

Furthermore, truck trip permits also help in tracking and monitoring trucks. Permit systems require trucking companies to provide details about the goods being transported, including their origin, destination, and the route taken. This information allows authorities to monitor the movement of goods and helps prevent illegal activities such as smuggling or the unauthorized use of certain roads.

In summary, truck trip permits play a crucial role in the transportation industry. They ensure compliance with state regulations, contribute to state revenue, promote safety on the roads, and enable effective monitoring of truck movements. Understanding their importance is essential for trucking companies to operate legally and responsibly.

The answer to this question depends on various factors, such as the duration of your truck trips, the frequency of your trips, and your specific needs.

If you are planning on making frequent trips with your truck throughout the year, it may be more cost-effective and convenient to opt for permanent registration. This allows you to have unrestricted access to travel across state lines without the need to constantly apply for trip permits. Permanent registration is typically valid for several years, reducing paperwork and administrative tasks.

However, if your truck trips are sporadic or occur on a short-term basis, truck trip permits might be more suitable. Trip permits are temporary permits issued by specific states that allow you to travel within those states for a limited period, typically up to 30 or 90 days. These permits are often required if you are not registered in the state where you are operating your truck or if you exceed the weight or size limits set by that state.

Ultimately, you should consider your specific hauling needs, the frequency and duration of your trips, as well as your budget, to determine whether truck trip permits or permanent registration is the better option for you. It may also be beneficial to consult with local authorities or industry professionals for further guidance based on your specific circumstances.

There are several common misconceptions about truck trip permits that have been debunked. These include:

1) Misconception: Truck trip permits are only required for interstate travel. Debunked: Truck trip permits are required for both intrastate and interstate travel. These permits ensure that trucks are compliant with state-specific regulations, regardless of the travel distance.

2) Misconception: Truck trip permits are only needed for oversized or overweight loads. Debunked: While it is true that some permits are required for oversized or overweight loads, there are also permits that cover other aspects such as temporary registrations, fuel tax reporting, and temporary authority to operate in certain jurisdictions.

3) Misconception: Truck trip permits are expensive and time-consuming to obtain. Debunked: While the cost and time required to obtain truck trip permits vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific requirements, they are generally affordable and can be obtained relatively quickly. Many states have simplified online application processes to make it easier for truck owners and operators.

4) Misconception: Once a truck trip permit is obtained, it is valid indefinitely. Debunked: Truck trip permits have specific validity periods, usually ranging from a few days to a few months. It is essential to ensure that permits are renewed or extended in a timely manner to avoid any violations.

5) Misconception: Truck trip permits are unnecessary as long as you have proper registration and insurance. Debunked: While proper registration and insurance are important, they do not replace the need for truck trip permits. These permits are specific to each state’s regulations and ensure compliance with additional requirements such as weight restrictions, route limitations, and safety measures.

In conclusion, understanding the truth behind these common misconceptions about truck trip permits is crucial for truck owners and operators. It allows them to navigate the complexities of interstate and intrastate travel efficiently while remaining compliant with state regulations.

Truck trip permits are important documents that allow trucks to travel on certain roads or jurisdictions. There are several rules and regulations that truck drivers should be aware of when obtaining and using these permits.

1) Obtain the necessary permits: Before starting a trip, truck drivers must ensure they have the required permits for the specific jurisdictions they will be traveling through. Permits can usually be obtained from the appropriate state or regional transportation authority.

2) Know the permit requirements: Different jurisdictions may have different permit requirements, such as weight restrictions, size limitations, or travel time restrictions. It is crucial for truck drivers to familiarize themselves with these requirements to avoid any penalties or violations.

3) Plan the route carefully: Truck drivers should plan their routes in advance, taking into account any limitations or restrictions imposed by the permits. This includes avoiding roads or bridges that have weight or height restrictions that the truck may not meet.

4) Display permits correctly: Once obtained, truck trip permits should be displayed correctly on the vehicle. The permits are usually attached to the front windshield or conspicuously displayed on the front of the truck, as per the regulations of the issuing authority.

5) Comply with permit conditions: Truck drivers must adhere to the conditions and limitations set by the permits. This may include speed restrictions, designated travel routes, or specific dates and times of travel. Failure to comply with these conditions can result in fines or permit revocation.

6) Stay updated with permit requirements: Rules and regulations pertaining to truck trip permits may change over time. Therefore, truck drivers should regularly check for updates or changes in the permit requirements of the jurisdictions they frequently travel through.

Overall, truck drivers should prioritize obtaining the necessary permits, understanding their requirements, and complying with the regulations to ensure safe and legal travel while avoiding any penalties or violations.

To calculate the cost of truck trip permits, follow these steps:

1) Determine the specific permits you need for your truck trip. Different states and jurisdictions require different permits based on factors like the weight of your truck , the states you’ll be passing through, and the type of cargo you’ll be carrying.

2) Research the permit fees for each jurisdiction you’ll be traveling through. You can find this information on state department of transportation websites or by contacting the relevant authorities directly.

3) Calculate the total number of permits you’ll need by considering the number of jurisdictions you’ll be passing through and the specific permits required for each.

4) Add up the individual permit fees to obtain the total cost of permits for your truck trip. Take into account the duration of your trip as fees may vary depending on the length of time the permits are valid.

5) Don’t forget to factor in any administrative or processing fees associated with obtaining the permits. Some jurisdictions may charge additional fees for application processing or paperwork.

6) Consider using online permit service providers, which can streamline the permit acquisition process for a fee. While this will add to your overall expense, it can save you time and effort.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to accurately calculate the cost of truck trip permits, ensuring compliance and smooth operations during your journey.

Truck Trip Permits: How They Impact Interstate Travel

Truck trip permits play a significant role in regulating interstate travel for trucks. These permits are required by law for commercial vehicles to ensure compliance with weight, size, and safety regulations. They are issued by the appropriate state authority and must be obtained before a truck can legally cross state lines.

The primary impact of truck trip permits on interstate travel is the facilitation of regulatory compliance. Different states have different regulations regarding the weight, size, and configuration of trucks allowed on their roads. Permits help enforce these regulations by ensuring that trucks meet the specific requirements of each state they pass through.

Additionally, truck trip permits also generate revenue for states. These permits often come with fees or taxes that trucking companies must pay, which contribute to the state’s transportation funds. This revenue is then used to maintain and improve the infrastructure on interstate highways, benefiting all travelers.

Moreover, truck trip permits help improve road safety. By requiring trucks to comply with weight limits and size restrictions, the permits contribute to reducing the risk of accidents caused by overloaded or improperly configured trucks . This not only protects the truck driver but also other motorists on the road .

However, truck trip permits can also have some drawbacks. The process of obtaining permits can be time-consuming and bureaucratic, requiring trucking companies to navigate through various state regulations and paperwork. This can lead to delays in transportation, affecting business operations and delivery timelines.

In conclusion, truck trip permits have a significant impact on interstate travel. They ensure regulatory compliance, generate revenue for states, improve road safety, but also come with administrative challenges. Overall, these permits play an essential role in maintaining order and safety on our nation’s highways.

Here are some top tips for a smooth truck trip permit application process:

1. Research and understand the permit requirements: Start by researching the specific permit requirements for your truck trip, including any documentation or forms needed. Having a clear understanding of the process will help you stay organized and avoid any delays.

2. Plan ahead: Apply for your permit well in advance of your planned trip to allow for any potential processing time. Some permits may take longer to process than others, so planning ahead is essential to avoid last-minute complications.

3. Gather all necessary information: Make sure you have all the required information and supporting documents ready before starting the application process. This may include vehicle registration details, driver information, insurance documentation, and any specific trip details.

4. Complete the application accurately: Pay close attention to all fields in the application form and provide accurate information. Mistakes or incomplete information can lead to rejection or delays in the processing of your permit.

5. Be prepared to pay fees: Some truck trip permits may have associated fees. Determine the fees in advance and be prepared to pay them during the application process. Ensuring that you have appropriate payment methods available will help speed up the process.

6. Utilize online platforms: Many jurisdictions offer online platforms for permit applications, which can streamline the process. Take advantage of these platforms as they often provide a user-friendly interface, document uploading capabilities, and real-time updates on the application status.

7. Regularly check the application status: After submitting your application, regularly check the status to stay updated on its progress. Utilize any tracking or monitoring tools provided by the permit issuing authority to ensure a smooth process.

8. Follow up if needed: If your permit application is taking longer than expected or if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to follow up with the issuing authority. Contact their customer service team and inquire about the status of your application or any additional steps required.

9. Keep copies of the permit: Once your permit is issued, make sure to keep copies of it for your records. These copies will serve as proof that you have the necessary authorization for your truck trip and may be required when crossing state or national borders.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared for a smooth truck trip permit application process, ensuring that your journey goes as planned without any unnecessary delays or complications.

The future of truck trip permits will be shaped by emerging trends and technologies that aim to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance overall operational performance.

One trend that is likely to influence truck trip permits is the advancement of digitalization and automation. As technology continues to develop, trucking companies are increasingly adopting digital platforms and automation tools to streamline permit application processes. This could include online permitting systems that eliminate the need for paper applications, enabling faster and more efficient processing of permits.

Another emerging trend is the use of data analytics and predictive modeling. Truck trip permits can benefit from advanced analytics that analyze historical data to forecast demand patterns and identify potential bottlenecks in freight movement. By leveraging this data, authorities can proactively plan and manage truck trips, minimizing congestion and optimizing traffic flow.

In terms of sustainable transportation, the future of truck trip permits will likely see a stronger emphasis on environmental regulations and emissions reduction. With the growing concern over climate change, truck permits may incorporate stricter requirements for cleaner vehicles, encouraging the adoption of electric or hybrid trucks. Authorities may also incentivize eco-friendly practices through reduced permit fees or preferential treatment for carriers that adhere to emission standards.

Furthermore, as trucking networks become more interconnected and integrated, there is potential for the use of emerging technologies such as connected vehicles and smart infrastructure. These technologies can facilitate real-time communication between trucks and permit authorities, enabling better coordination and management of truck trips. For instance, real-time data on road conditions, traffic, and weather can be used to optimize routes and improve safety.

Overall, the future of truck trip permits will be shaped by the application of innovative technologies and the pursuit of sustainability goals. By embracing digitalization, data analytics, and automation, authorities can streamline permit processes and enhance the overall efficiency of trucking operations. Additionally, incorporating environmental considerations and leveraging emerging technologies will contribute to a more sustainable and resilient trucking industry.

Sure! Here’s an example of a table in HTML format about Truck Trip Permits:

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This table includes information about the state, permit type, application process, cost, and validity period for different truck trip permits. Feel free to customize it as per your specific requirements.

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Don't feed the meter. Save money and buy a parking permit at these L.A. and O.C. beaches

For the record :

10:16 a.m. July 26, 2024 : Correction: An earlier version of this story stated Los Angeles County’s parking permits were for two lots at Dockweiler State Beach, one permit is for a lot in San Pedro.

In California, the public beaches are free. It's the parking spaces that will cost you.

The public lots at the beach charge either an hourly rate (in Orange County) or a flat fee for a block of time (in Los Angeles County). Then there are public and commercial lots and on-street parking farther from the waves, which, depending on how many wagon-loads of kids and gear you're schlepping, may not be a viable option.

While you may find plenty of ways to save money on parking, especially if you're willing to walk a bit, the fees charged at the public beach lots are used to support the communities that beachgoers visit.

In Los Angeles County, parking revenue helps to cover the cost of maintaining roughly 23 miles of the county coast, said Nicole Mooradian, spokesperson for the county's Department of Beaches and Harbors.

In Redondo Beach, meter revenue goes toward the city's general fund and supports operational expenses for parks, public works and public safety, including the local police and fire departments.

"There is a cost to every maintenance activity by the city, from street sweeping to picking up trash strewn on the street, or furniture put out on the curb," said Redondo Beach City Councilmember Zein Obagi.

To support the communities you frequent this summer while saving money and avoiding the hassle of feeding a meter (average cost: $1.50 an hour), there is the option of a parking pass.

Some cities and counties offer annual parking permits that allow you unlimited use of public parking facilities, including the metered spaces in their beach lots. Others offer passes with more limits, but still provide uninterrupted blocks of prepaid parking time.

The price tag can be high — as much as $200. Let the sticker shock subside, though, and consider that if you fed the typical meter $200, you would get about 133 hours of boogie boarding, laying on the sand and beach volleyball. That translates to 16 to 27 full days at the beach, depending on your level of endurance.

These are the beaches in Los Angeles and Orange County that sell parking permits that can be used at meters and, in some cases, parking lots.

Los Angeles County

The County's Department of Beaches and Harbors offers two types of parking permits: the annual senior parking pass and the annual beach parking pass.

The senior pass is $25 and available to California residents who are 62 and older. This pass allows parking at all county-run parking lots on nonholiday weekdays. On nonholiday weekends the pass allows for free parking from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Senior pass application can be downloaded online or applied for in person at the visitors center at 4701 Admiralty Way in Marina Del Rey. For more information, call 424-526-7777.

The annual beach parking pass costs $150 and is valid at the Grand Avenue lot at Dockweiler State Beach and the White Point/Royal Palms lot in San Pedro.

The pass is valid Monday through Friday year-round and on weekends during the off-season. On summer weekends it's valid after 4 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend to the last Sunday in September.

Annual pass applications can be mailed to 4519 Admiralty Way, Suite B in Marina del Rey. For more information, call 310-821-1081.

Redondo Beach offers an annual parking meter permit for $170. The city website says the price is $110, but the City Council decided to raise the fee during a June 23 meeting.

The parking permit is valid at any parking meter within city limits and works from the date of purchase until Oct. 31.

Permits can be purchased at Redondo Beach City Hall at 415 Diamond St. or through the online payment portal .

The city also offers $25 senior parking permits valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 at two parking lots, the one at 309 The Esplanade and Lot 4 (near Veteran's Park Senior Center).

Senior permit applications can be downloaded and mailed to the City of Redondo Beach c/o Parking Enforcement Unit, Senior Parking Permits, P.O. Box 270, along with a check and a copy of your current driver's license. The application can also be turned in and paid for in person at City Hall.

Santa Monica offers monthly, semiannual or annual beach parking permits and a senior permit at a discounted rate. The monthly permit costs $27. The semiannual that is valid from now through December costs $105; the annual permit works from January through December and costs $155.

All the permit options allow you to park in most Santa Monica beach lots during hours of operation, excluding the Pier Deck, the Annenberg Beach House, and all short-term lots.

The $25 senior permit is valid from April 1 through March 31 and allows you to park in most Santa Monica Beach lots, excluding the Pier Deck and short-term parking areas.

Permits can be purchased online , in-person at the Parking Operations Office at 144 4th Street in Santa Monica, or by mailing required documents to the Parking Operations Office.

Long Beach offers annual day and overnight parking passes to the public, but the cost depends on the lot you'd like to use.

An annual overnight parking pass valid from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. at Alamitos Beach, Junipero Beach, Belmont Memorial Pier and La Verne costs $336.

Annual day parking passes for Marina Green, 54th Place, Colorado Lagoon Marina Park and Granada Beach cost $155 for non-seniors and $75 for seniors. The permits are valid from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The passes can be purchased through the city's online portal or in person at the Parking Operations Office at 420 Pine Ave. in Long Beach. For more information, call 562-570-8055.

Orange County

Through Orange County's Parks department, the public can purchase annual parking passes for Capistrano and Sal Creek Beaches, which can be used to park all day (but not overnight) at lots that are gated or have meters.

A regular pass costs $55 and a senior pass costs $35, and are effective for one year from the date of purchase.

Parking passes can be obtained at the Heritage Hill Historical Park, Irvine Ranch Historic Park, OC Sailing and Events Center or the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. For more information, call the annual pass help desk at 714-619-8057 or email annualpass@parking concepts.com.

Huntington Beach offers a beach parking permit for $195 that's valid at the following locations: meters along Pacific Coast Highway and Beach Boulevard; city beach parking lots from Beach Boulevard to the pier; the Pier Plaza "Pay-by-Plate" lots at 6th Street; the parking lot adjacent to the Warner Avenue Fire Station and boat launch; and the Main Promenade parking structure on Walnut and Olive Streets.

A senior pass is offered for $100 and is valid at the same locations.

The pass is not valid on Main Street or residential or business meters.

Parking passes can be purchased in person at 103 Pacific Coast Highway or online . For more information, call 714-536-5281.

Newport Beach has two parking permit offerings: the Balboa Pier Municipal Lot overnight parking permit and the annual parking permit.

The Balboa Pier permit allows you to park during the day or overnight (from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m.) without paying a day use fee. The fee for the permit varies; if purchased anytime from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30, it costs $300.75. If the permit is purchased from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31 it's $75.25. It expires Dec. 31.

The annual parking permit can be used at most city lots, as well as paid spaces that display a painted "A." There's a map online that shows where the designated parking spots are located. The The permit costs $209.25 if purchased from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30, or $52.25 if purchased from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31. A senior who purchases either permit will get a 50% discount.

Whatever the purchase date is, the permits expire Dec. 31.

The permits can be purchased online or in person at the Newport Beach Civic Center at 100 Civic Center Drive.

San Clemente offers an annual metered parking permit for $50 to residents or $100 to nonresidents. This permit can be used at any city-operated metered space at North Beach, Linda Lane, Parque Del Mar/Pier Bowl or T-Street. The permit does not apply to state-operated metered spaces at the Calafia State Beach and Trestles State Beach lots.

The permit is valid for 12 months. For more information on how to purchase one, call the city's Finance Division at 949-361-8315 or email [email protected].

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times .

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Wind farms' benefits to communities can be slow or complex, leading to opposition and misinformation

Mary Katherine Wildeman And Melina Walling

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

Wind turbines operate, Tuesday, May 7, 2024, in Paxton, Ill. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel)

After NextEra proposed a wind farm in Greeley County, Nebraska two years ago, Robert Bernt, a dairy farm owner in the area, helped to mobilize community members against the idea.

His group held town hall meetings and ran ads on the radio , arguing the wind farm would “fragment” the community, by lowering property values and leaving “decaying blades in our landfills.”

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Bernt estimated Greeley is the eighth county where he has fought a wind project. “In every case, people were upset because they felt they weren’t told the truth,” Bernt said.

To Bernt, the truth is that wind developers under-deliver on their economic promises to communities and harm the environment. He said people’s taxes don’t go down, and wind farms take away from an area’s natural beauty, noting rural Nebraska could use a boost in tourism income.

Bernt’s words are an echo of those commonly cited by wind power’s opponents, with arguments often hinging on the idea that wind developers under-deliver on their promises. Unpicking facts from fiction — and the gray area of people’s personal feelings in between — is difficult. And even some local leaders who can see money flowing into government coffers say they had trouble understanding a complex taxing system at first.

While wind power can contribute millions per year to rural communities, an independent Associated Press analysis found , these economic arguments have at times been drowned out by health and safety concerns, as well as accusations that wind is taking away from a local economy in other ways. Local laws effectively blocking wind or solar projects are increasingly common, said Matthew Eisenson, of the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia University.

“When you have extremely restrictive local ordinances it can stop major wind and solar projects from moving forward,” Eisenson said.

Wind developers told the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in a January report at least a quarter of applications to build wind projects were canceled in the last five years, with local rules and community opposition cited as some of the leading reasons.

John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union and an advocate of wind power, said its opponents are increasingly organized and often cite the same arguments in each community.

Many anti-wind coalitions cite declines in local property values, for instance. A December review by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found reduced property value for homes within one mile of turbines, but those values rebounded after construction finished.

Other debunked claims include: Studies have found no significant impact of turbines on bird life. And there is no established link between low-frequency noise from wind turbines and human health, according to a report authored by Eisenson. They point to, among other references, one study of Australian wind farms in which complaints related to noise and human health were rare until the phrase “wind turbine syndrome” was coined in a self-published book. A dramatic spike in complaints then followed.

“Every fear, every misinformation that you can imagine gets put on the barn wall,” Hansen said. “We have rural communities who are going out of their way to pursue agendas that are counterproductive to their own interests.”

Some claims may be harder for wind proponents to address. Wind developers stress accidents where turbines fall down or catch fire are rare, but the incidents tend to be widely publicized when they do happen, and often appear on anti-wind social media channels. Public information showing industry-wide tracking of such accidents does not exist, though experts updating the National Wind Turbine Database may see catastrophic turbine failures, and say it is very uncommon.

And while about 90% of wind turbines can be recycled, for the time being that may not include the blades themselves. Wind developers are working on solutions to keep turbines out of landfills.

Even presented with facts about wind power and its subsequent tax benefits, however, people don’t always buy in. That’s something Kathy Croker saw during her 25 years as an appraiser and 17 as an assessor before joining the board of supervisors in Buena Vista County, Iowa, one of the first counties in the nation to have big wind projects. She says she always thought wind turbines were “kinda cool,” and says she’s seen firsthand the tax implications for the county, including millions of dollars to the school district.

But she said from her position in local government that people didn’t necessarily trust her when she told them wind power might actually help with taxes.

“In my experience, the larger population does not think about the benefits of a larger tax base,” she said. “There is a general mistrust.”

Other people say their minds were changed by talking to particular community members.

Like Cindy Ihrke, the vice chair of the board of Ford County, Illinois, who said she wasn’t against wind initially. She acknowledged some of the benefits of existing wind farms, but doesn’t think what they’ve done for the county is good enough to want more of it.

Then Ihrke says that she heard about people in the county “having problems or having to leave their homes,” which led her to desire more strict zoning regulations in Ford County.

One of those people, Ted Hartke, says that the noise from a nearby wind farm led his family to leave their home about 10 years ago. He said they couldn't sleep and that they could “sense it in the house" when the turbines were running.

Hartke, an engineer and surveyor, says he initially supported wind power, but has since become an ardent opponent in public meetings and on social media.

He feels his family experienced real harm, saying “there’s a lot of victims just like us.” But he also mentioned that being “so pissed off” has led him to find out more and more about wind online.

“It seems like my Facebook feed just feeds me this stuff,” he said.

Facebook groups that often feature repeating group members and memes rife with misinformation have been documented as a highly effective tool at stalling local interest in wind projects, at times spreading fear-mongering false claims related to health or property values.

The Greeley county board of commissioners voted to allow a special use permit for NextEra despite the vocal opposition. Work is scheduled to begin on the Greeley County project in 2025, a NextEra spokeswoman said in a statement. She noted the project is a roughly $200 million capital investment for the company, and will pay out $27 million in lease payments to landowners over the farm's expected 30-year life in addition to the taxes NextEra will pay.

The agreement reached between NextEra and the county government requires the company to set aside millions for an eventual decommissioning and to support local roads. Bernt said it is one of the more generous agreements he has seen, but “only because there was enough attention brought to the issues” by concerned community members.

The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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CBP Reminds Travelers to Obtain the I-94 Permit Early

SAN DIEGO— U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials in San Diego are anticipating an increase in applications by Mexican travelers for the required I-94 permit during the Easter holiday season and spring break. Mexican border crossing card (or "laser visa") holders who plan to make an extended visit to the United States during the upcoming travel season are urged to obtain the essential document early instead of waiting until the day of travel.

"We urge travelers to obtain the required document as much as a week or two early to avoid congestion and potential delays," said Pete Flores, director of field operations for the ports of entry on the California border with Mexico. "If they apply now they will obtain the essential document faster and more conveniently. Travelers may obtain the permit 24 hours a day at both the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa ports."

Under U.S. immigration law, an applicant for admission into the U.S. as a temporary visitor for business or pleasure must prove to a CBP officer that their projected stay in the U.S. will be temporary.

Unless otherwise exempted, each foreign traveler admitted into the United States is issued an I-94 permit (arrival/departure record), as evidence of the terms of their admission.

Mexican citizens entering the country through the southern land border with a border crossing card ("laser visa") are exempted from the requirement for an I-94 permit unless they are intending to remain in the U.S. for more than 30-days and/or will travel more than 25 miles from the border. Applicants who present a border crossing card (or laser visa) are not eligible to work in the United States.

Those applicants requiring an I-94 permit must demonstrate that they are financially solvent and have sufficiently strong ties to their country of origin, including a home abroad they do not intend to abandon.

"Ties" are the various aspects of a person's life that bind him or her to his or her country or residence. Some examples of ways to document these ties can be pay stubs for a person's employment/income, a house or apartment mortgage or rental receipt, bank account records, utility bills, etc.

It is not possible to specify the documents applicants for admission should carry, since each applicant's circumstances vary greatly. Applicants should carry with them whatever documents they think demonstrate their individual circumstances.

All traveling family members need to be present during the I-94 application process.

The I-94 permit, which costs $6, allows visitors to travel further than 25 miles from the border and remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days.

By U.S. law, a foreign traveler must possess his or her entry documents, and if required, the I-94 permit, with them at all times while in the United States.

In addition, at checkpoints, U.S. Border Patrol agents check foreign travelers for entry documents and the I-94 permit. Travelers not in possession of their entry documents and an I-94 permit may have their visa cancelled and be deported from the United States.

More information about the CBP form for an I-94 permit can be found online at Entering the U.S. - Documents required for Foreign Nationals (International Travelers) .

As the busiest land border port in the nation with 35,000-40,000 vehicles and 20,000 pedestrians daily entering the U.S. through its gates, the San Ysidro facility is one of the Southwest border stations most affected by heavy holiday I-94 processing.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.