Subject: Transponder - Annual User Fee and Renewal Process
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has seen an alarming rise in the number of transponder
replacements being requested every year by the Trade. This message is informational and is intended to offer some reminders and guidance about the purchase of the annual User Fee and the renewal process.
The transponder is a sticker that contains an electronic chip that transmits information about a vehicle and border crossing User Fee payment status to CBP. User Fees are valid for a calendar year only; however, a new transponder does NOT need to be issued for each vehicle each year. When the User Fee is renewed for a vehicle, the user fee payment status tied to that vehicle’s transponder is automatically extended for that year.
Transponders have a life span of up to 10 years and remain with the vehicle, even if sold. If the vehicle is sold, that vehicle must be deactivated from the prior owner’s fleet through the use of the Decal and Transponder Online Procurement System (DTOPS), or an email may be sent to [email protected] outlining the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and a brief message requesting deactivation of that transponder.
Transponders will ONLY require replacement when non-operational, damaged, or lost. However, transponders are associated with the vehicle’s VIN and must remain with the vehicle to which it was assigned at all times.
For complete details on the User Fee program and transponders, please visit the User Fee Decal and Transponder website. If you have additional questions or need assistance, please contact the User Fee Decal and Transponder helpdesk at (317) 298-1245, or [email protected].