What is an Oversize/Overweight permit?

  • An Oversize and/ or Overweight permit allows travel along state-maintained roads when operating at dimensions and/or weights that exceed legal limitations. Most cases these are obtained for non-divisible loads.

When do I need an Oversize/Overweight permit?

  • When traveling on roads in excess of that state's legal dimensions
    • Exceeding a gross weight of 80,000 pounds or legal axle weight
    • Exceeding 8'6" in width
    • Exceeding 13'6" in height (Some states legal is 14'0")
    • A trailer/load length exceeding 53'0" (Varies state to state)
  • Some states may have exceptions/exemptions on different circumstances
    • Type of load (Farm equipment, Construction equipment, Forestry equipment)
    • Over length only (beams, poles, logs, etc.)
    • Disaster relief
  • What types of Oversize/Overweight permits are there?
    • Superload Permit: is a oversize/overweight permit with dimensions that exceed a standard issue permit. They vary by state and additional information may be needed when requesting a superload permit such as a route survey, insurance, or drawings.
    • Self-Propelled Permit: Is an oversize/overweight permits specific to the movement of a vehicle operating under its own power. (Cranes, drill-rigs, etc.) Additional information varies by state which could involve drawings and more extensive axle information.
    • Mobile Home Permit: is an oversize permit specific to the movement of a mobile home or office when exceeding legal dimensions. Specific mobile home information (year, make, plate, and serial number) may be required.
    • County/City Permit: is an oversize/overweight permit issued by a county/city/township that grants travel on roads not under a state's jurisdiction.
    • Turnpike Permit: is an oversize/overweight permit issued for a travel on a turnpike that is not consider under the jurisdiction of the state.