When Do You Need a Permit?
Permits are required when your load exceeds legal dimensions or weight limits. These limits vary by state, but here are the general federal maximums:
| Dimension | Legal Maximum | Permit Required When |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 8'6" (102") | Over 8'6" |
| Height | 13'6" (most states) | Over 13'6" (varies by state) |
| Length (trailer) | 53' | Over 53' or total combo limits |
| Overhang (rear) | 4' | Over 4' rear overhang |
| Gross Weight | 80,000 lbs | Over 80,000 lbs |
Height limits vary significantly. Washington allows 14' on most routes, while Oregon is 14' on interstates but lower on some state routes. Always verify for your specific route.
Types of Permits
Single Trip Permits
Issued for one specific load, one specific route, within a defined time window (typically 5-10 days).
- Most common for occasional oversize loads
- Route-specific—deviations not allowed
- Cost: $15-100+ depending on state and dimensions
- Can often be obtained same-day or next-day
Annual/Blanket Permits
Cover multiple trips over a year for loads within specified dimensions.
- Best for frequent oversize haulers
- Usually limited to moderate oversize (e.g., 12' wide max)
- Cost: $100-500+ per year per state
- May have route restrictions
Superload Permits
Required for extremely large or heavy loads that exceed normal permit limits.
- Typically over 16' wide, 16' tall, 150' long, or 200,000+ lbs
- Require route surveys and engineering analysis
- May take weeks to obtain
- Often require multiple escorts and restricted travel times
PNW State Requirements
🌲 Washington State
- Permit Portal: WSDOT Commercial Vehicle Services
- Max Height (no permit): 14'
- Escort required: Over 14' wide or 16' tall on most routes
- Travel times: Some routes restricted to daylight hours
- Weekend travel: Generally allowed, some holiday restrictions
🌲 Oregon
- Permit Portal: ODOT Trucking Online (TOL)
- Max Height (no permit): 14' on interstates, varies on state routes
- Escort required: Over 14' wide (one), over 16' wide (two)
- Travel times: 30 min after sunrise to 30 min before sunset for some loads
- Note: Oregon has many low-clearance routes—verify heights carefully
🥔 Idaho
- Permit Portal: Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
- Max Height (no permit): 14'
- Escort required: Over 14'6" wide or 16' tall
- Travel times: Daylight only for most oversize
- Note: Mountain routes may have additional restrictions
Escort/Pilot Car Requirements
Escorts (pilot cars) are required based on load dimensions. Requirements vary by state:
| Dimension | Front Escort | Rear Escort | Police Escort |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-12' wide | Usually no | Usually no | No |
| 12-14' wide | Often yes | Sometimes | No |
| 14-16' wide | Yes | Often yes | Sometimes |
| Over 16' wide | Yes | Yes | Often yes |
| Over 15' tall | Height pole | Sometimes | Varies |
Budget $1.50-2.50 per mile per escort vehicle. A two-escort, 500-mile move could add $1,500-2,500 to your costs. Factor this into rate negotiations.
Permit Application Process
- Gather load information: Exact dimensions (L×W×H), weight, axle configuration
- Determine route: Origin, destination, preferred highways
- Apply online: Most states have online permit systems
- Await approval: Simple permits: hours to 1-2 days. Complex: 1-2 weeks+
- Review route: Note restrictions, required stops, travel windows
- Arrange escorts: If required, book certified pilot cars
- Carry permit: Original permit must be in cab during transport
Common Permit Mistakes
- Underestimating dimensions—always measure twice
- Forgetting to include trailer height in total height
- Not accounting for load shift during transport
- Missing permit expiration dates
- Deviating from permitted route
- Traveling outside permitted hours
- Failing to carry physical permit copy
Permit Services
Many carriers use permit services to handle the complexity of multi-state moves:
- Benefits: Expertise, speed, route optimization, reduced errors
- Cost: $25-75 per permit plus state fees
- Best for: Multi-state moves, superloads, time-sensitive shipments
We Handle Permits For You
Our Heavy Haul service includes full permit coordination. Tell us the load—we handle the paperwork.
Contact Heavy Haul Team