ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE AK
AlaskaOversize & overweight permits.
Plan an Alaska equipment move around the loaded rig, highway corridor and seasonal restrictions. Check the permit product, pilot cars and any ferry or tunnel conditions before departure.
General information only, not legal advice or a permit. Confirm with the issuing agency before you move. Read the disclaimer
AI-generated illustration · not to scale
- 01Legal size
What is legal without a permit?
Axle limits Legal With a permit- Any axle less than 8′1″ from another axle counts as part of an axle group; axles in a group need at least 3′6″ spacing.
- Tires may carry no more than 600 lb per inch of tire width.
The rule in full8 official sources
General width: 8′6″
Vehicle and load on the state highway system; listed equipment and safety-device exceptions apply.
Loaded height: 15′ / 17′
15′ generally; 17′ on the Dalton and Elliott highways between the Fox Weigh Station and Prudhoe Bay. Verify actual route clearances.
NN semitrailer: 48′
Federal National Network allowance for a tractor with one semitrailer. Longer trailers may qualify under state axle-position and route rules; local roads can differ.
Overall length: No NN cap*
*For a tractor with one compliant semitrailer on the National Network. Other combinations, trailers, projecting loads and local access have separate limits; see the state measurements below.
Interstate weight: 80,000 lb*
*Federal baseline, subject to the bridge formula, registration and postings: 20,000 lb single axle and 34,000 lb tandem. A particular configuration may have a lower limit; state grandfather allowances need verified spacing and route eligibility.
Legal size
General limits: 102 inches (8′6″) wide, 15′ high, 3′ front and 4′ rear overhang; 17′ high on the Dalton and Elliott highways. Length depends on the vehicle configuration. Route, clearance and facility rules still apply.
Weight limits
The lowest of these limits applies. Tires: 600 lb per inch of tire width. Axles: 20,000 lb single, 38,000 tandem, 42,000 tridem, 50,000 quad. A qualifying long-semitrailer tridem: 42,000, 43,500 or 45,000 lb. Then the bridge formula, with or without lift axles. After that apply traction, APU, towing, snow and ice, posting and seasonal limits (50, 75, 85 or 100 percent). Gross weight alone never settles it.
Width, height and overhang
Alaska's general state-highway limits are 8′6″ wide, 15′ high, 3′ front overhang and 4′ rear overhang. Vehicles on the Dalton and Elliott highways between the Fox Weigh Station and Prudhoe Bay may be 17′ high. Length limits depend on vehicle configuration and route; verify actual clearances.
Axle limits: legal and with a permit
Legal: single 20,000 lb, 2-axle group 38,000 lb, 3-axle group 42,000 lb, 4-axle group 50,000 lb. With a permit: . Any axle less than 8′1″ from another axle counts as part of an axle group; axles in a group need at least 3′6″ spacing. Tires may carry no more than 600 lb per inch of tire width.
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Pilot carsWidth over 10′6″Over 10′6″ up to 12′ wide: at least 1 pilot car on all routes.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026What official sources leave open10
Where Alaska’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- Front-overhang pilot car conflict: DOT&PF's General Permit Information sheet (PDF dated November 2024) lists one pilot car for front overhang over 10′ up to 60′ ("Front OH >10’ -60’ One"). The April 2023 Administrative Permit Manual, adopted by reference in 17 AAC 25.320(b), requires flags, OVERSIZE signs and a beacon for front overhang over 10′ up to 25′, and a front pilot car only over 25′ up to 60′. The sheet calls its table a general guide and says pilot car requirements are in the manual, so this file follows the manual; the permit states the pilot cars actually required.
- Holiday scope conflict: manual Section 14 prohibits permitted oversize and overweight vehicles from moving during the Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day periods unless the permit allows it. DOT&PF's Holiday Closures notice (PDF dated April 2026) applies the restriction to widths over 10′6″ on all roads on the Kenai Peninsula south of Potter Weigh Station and on the Parks, Glenn and Richardson highways, and refers to Section 14 for more information.
- DOT&PF names Memorial Day and Labor Day but gives neither their dates nor the rule that fixes them, so their 2027 restriction periods are not listed.
- No sunrise/sunset travel window is published; over-width and over-17′ loads move in daylight only unless they meet the manual's Hours of Darkness lighting and tape rules or the permit specifies otherwise.
- No fixed size threshold for police or trooper escorts; the manual says coordination may be required.
- No published single-trip maximum dimensions or permit axle weights; SWOOP lists only its self-issue limits.
- No Alaska statement found on carrying the permit electronically, or on pilot car certification reciprocity beyond State-approved flagger training.
- Legal gross weight has no single cap in 17 AAC 25.013; it follows the Bridge Gross Weight Formulas, so no weight markers are shown. The superload card carries the 250,000 lb threshold.
- The context page lists a 48′ National Network semitrailer and a 34,000 lb federal tandem; 17 AAC 25.012(e)(1) allows a 53′ semitrailer in combination on all routes and 17 AAC 25.013 allows 38,000 lb on a 2-axle group.
- Older permit attachments still hosted on the DOT&PF site differ from the 2023 manual: Attachment PC says C.B. radios are the only approved radio communications (the manual also accepts company radios), and Attachment HD calls for corner tape when width exceeds 10′ (the manual says over 10′6″). This file follows the manual.
The rule in full3 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Up to 8′6″ wide, including the load, moves without a permit; wider needs one.
Width 10′6″: 1 pilot car
Over 10′6″ up to 12′ wide: at least 1 pilot car on all routes.
Width 12′: 2 pilot cars
Over 12′ up to 14′ wide: at least 2 pilot cars on all routes and 16″ red or fluorescent orange flags at the widest point on each side, unless the permit says otherwise.
Width 14′: 3 pilot cars · 45 mph
Over 14′ up to 18′ wide: at least 3 pilot cars on all routes, 16″ flags on all four corners and a 45 mph limit, unless the permit says otherwise.
Width 16′: Road review possible
Permits for structures or other loads over 16′ wide may be coordinated with DOT&PF maintenance and operations staff, who review the roadway and recommend whether to allow the move.
Width 18′: 4 pilot cars · 40 mph
Over 18′ wide: at least 4 pilot cars on all routes. Top speed is 40 mph up to 22′ wide and 35 mph over 22′, unless the permit says otherwise.
Width 18′: Superload
Over 18′ wide is a superload; send the request at least five business days ahead.
- 12Alaska DOT&PF — Superload Notice Checked
Height 15′: Legal height
Up to 15′ high moves without a permit; 17′ is legal on the Dalton and Elliott highways between the Fox Weigh Station and Prudhoe Bay.
Height 16′6″: Height pole · Glenn Hwy
Over 16′6″ high, when passing under a bridge on the Glenn Highway between MP 0 and MP 27: a front pilot car with a height pole at least 6″ above the load.
Height 17′: Height pole · all routes
Over 17′ high: a front pilot car with a height pole, a 45 mph limit, and daylight only unless equipped with the lighting and reflective tape the manual requires.
Height 18′: Superload
Over 18′ high is a superload; send the request at least five business days ahead.
- 12Alaska DOT&PF — Superload Notice Checked
Length 75′: Legal combination length
Off the National Highway System routes, a truck or tractor combination may be up to 75′ long overall.
Length 85′: 1 pilot car
Combinations over 85′ up to 100′ long: at least 1 pilot car on all routes.
Length 100′: 2 pilot cars
Combinations over 100′ up to 150′ long: at least 2 pilot cars on all routes.
Length 150′: 3 pilot cars
Over 150′ long: at least 3 pilot cars on all routes.
Length 150′: Superload
Over 150′ long is a superload; send the request at least five business days ahead.
- 12Alaska DOT&PF — Superload Notice Checked
Overhang 3′ front: Legal overhang
Without a permit, a load may stick out 3′ past the front bumper and 4′ past the rear.
Overhang 4′ rear: Flag the overhang
Rear overhang over 4′ up to 10′ on a legal-length load: flag the overhang with a red or fluorescent orange flag at least 16″ square.
Overhang 10′ rear: Light bar or rear pilot car
Rear overhang over 10′ up to 20′: an extended light bar or a rear pilot car, plus OVERSIZE signs and an amber beacon at the end of the load.
Overhang 20′ rear: Rear pilot car
Rear overhang over 20′ up to 35′: a rear pilot car and a 16″ red flag at the end of the load.
Overhang 25′ front: Front pilot car
Front overhang over 25′ up to 60′: a front pilot car, plus OVERSIZE signs and an amber beacon at the end of the load.
Overhang 35′ rear: 2 pilot cars
Rear overhang over 35′: 2 pilot cars.
Overhang 60′ front: 2 pilot cars
Front overhang over 60′: 2 pilot cars.
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- Identify every road owner and obtain the required separate approvals for federal, tribal, municipal, borough, port, railroad and private segments.
- Alaska's seasonal restriction map excludes non-DOT roads; check those roads with their owners.
SuperloadOver 18′ W/H · 150′ L · 250,000 lb
A load is a superload when it is:
- Over 150′ long
- Over 18′ wide
- Over 18′ high
- 250,000 lb gross or more
- Request at least 5 business days ahead; these requests need additional analysis
Overweight and bridge checksUp to 125% without bridge check
Overweight permits up to 125% of legal axle, axle-group or gross weight can be issued without further bridge checks. Heavier permits carry these top speeds:
- Over 125% to 140% of legal: 45 mph
- Over 140% to 150%: 40 mph
- Over 150% to 175%: 35 mph
- Over 175%: 25 mph
Height route surveyCarrier surveys every over-height route
For any over-height move, the permittee must survey the whole route for the lowest overhead clearances before travel and physically measure the load's width, length and height.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026Exact route on the applicationOver 14′ W · 150′ L · 16′6″ H
The application must give the actual route for loads over 14′ wide, over 150′ long, over 16′6″ high, and for every overweight permit.
13Alaska DOT&PF — Information Required When Applying for Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026Roads off the state systemLocal ordinance applies
Movement off the state highway system is subject to local ordinance.
617 AAC 25 — Commercial Vehicle Size, Weight & Permit Regulations (DOT&PF reproduction, incl. amendments eff. 1/11/2024) · checked Oct 13, 2026Single-trip permit3 days (5 if over 400 mi)
A single-trip permit covers one move over three days, not counting Sundays and designated holiday periods; a trip over 400 miles one way may get five days.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026Self-issue in SWOOPUp to 12′ W · 16′ H · 100′ L
Single-trip permits can be self-issued at akswoop.com up to these limits, unless special requests apply:
- 100′ long
- 16′ high
- 12′ wide
- 125% weight
- 10′ overhang
Official route and permit tools- AK SWOOP permit systemApply for and self-issue permits (myAlaska sign-in)
- CVCSC permits pageContacts, manual, regulations and forms
- Permit application formPaper application
- Seasonal weight restrictionsSpring weight limits by road
- Holiday closures and travel restrictionsHoliday movement limits
- Alaska 511Road conditions before moving
- Bridge formula chartLegal gross by axle spacing
The rule in full11 official sources
Other road owners
Identify every road owner and obtain the required separate approvals for federal, tribal, municipal, borough, port, railroad and private segments. Alaska's seasonal restriction map excludes non-DOT roads; check those roads with their owners.
Ferries and the Whittier Tunnel
The ferry system (AMHS) and the Whittier Tunnel decide separately. Confirm the vessel, port or tunnel schedule, class and permit with them. A highway permit alone is not enough.
Who applies
The owner, operator, lessee or hired mover who is financially responsible applies. The permit covers one vehicle and cannot be transferred. The applicant certifies the facts; the driver, owner and lessee all remain responsible for compliance.
SWOOP self-issued permits
SWOOP self-issued single permits have published application limits of 100′ long, 16′ high, 12′ wide, 125% of legal weight and 10′ of overhang. Extended permits have limits of 85′ long, legal height, 10′6″ wide, 125% of legal weight and 10′ of overhang. Use the full loaded measurements and legal weight to select the permit type.
- 11Alaska DOT&PF — SWOOP Permit Types Checked
Superloads
A load is a superload when it is over 150′ long, over 18′ wide, over 18′ high, or 250,000 lb or more. Exactly 150′ or 18′ is not a superload, but exactly 250,000 lb is. Apply with complete details at least five business days ahead, then wait for engineering review and the permit.
Superload
A load is a superload when it is: Over 150′ long. Over 18′ wide. Over 18′ high. 250,000 lb gross or more. Request at least 5 business days ahead; these requests need additional analysis.
- 12Alaska DOT&PF — Superload Notice Checked
Overweight and bridge checks
Overweight permits up to 125% of legal axle, axle-group or gross weight can be issued without further bridge checks. Heavier permits carry these top speeds: Over 125% to 140% of legal: 45 mph. Over 140% to 150%: 40 mph. Over 150% to 175%: 35 mph. Over 175%: 25 mph.
Height route survey
For any over-height move, the permittee must survey the whole route for the lowest overhead clearances before travel and physically measure the load's width, length and height.
Exact route on the application
The application must give the actual route for loads over 14′ wide, over 150′ long, over 16′6″ high, and for every overweight permit.
Roads off the state system
Movement off the state highway system is subject to local ordinance.
Single-trip permit
A single-trip permit covers one move over three days, not counting Sundays and designated holiday periods; a trip over 400 miles one way may get five days.
Self-issue in SWOOP
Single-trip permits can be self-issued at akswoop.com up to these limits, unless special requests apply: 100′ long. 16′ high. 12′ wide. 125% weight. 10′ overhang.
- 11Alaska DOT&PF — SWOOP Permit Types Checked
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$40- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full1 official source
Example agency fee
$40 for a nondivisible load 8′7″ wide, 13′ high and 70′ long at 72,000 lb gross, on a five-axle truck with a 48′ trailer, for 100 miles in Alaska. It assumes an 80,000 lb legal gross limit. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
Alaska's fee depends on the permit product and the loaded vehicle. The calculator itemizes the published charges it can price. Local permits, escorts, tolls, payment charges and ODPermit services are separate.
- 05Pilot cars
When do you need pilot cars?
1 rear, or an extended light barMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
Height poleOver 17′ · pole 6″ above load
Loads over 17′ high follow a front pilot car carrying a height pole at least 6″ above the highest point of the load.
- No height pole is required north of the Fox Weigh Station
Police and troopersMay be required case by case
When an adequate emergency traffic lane cannot be provided, large buildings or structures may have to be reduced in size, and coordination with local police or State troopers may also be required.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026Pilot car vehicleCar or light truck · sign · beacon
Pilot cars must be legal-size passenger vehicles or light trucks that are not towing a trailer, and they need:
- Commercial vehicle insurance
- OVERSIZE, WIDE LOAD or LONG LOAD sign
- Roof-mounted amber beacon visible for at least 500′
Pilot car equipmentPaddle · triangles · extinguisher
Every pilot car carries at all times while escorting:
- 18″ or 24″ STOP/SLOW paddle
- Three bi-directional reflective triangles
- 5 B:C fire extinguisher
- Highly reflectorized vest, shirt or jacket
- Flashlight with a red cone or lighted wand
Pilot car driverState-approved flagger training
Pilot car drivers must complete State-approved flagger training and carry proof of it.
- At least 18 for noncommercial vehicles, 19 for intrastate and 21 for interstate commercial vehicles
Where pilot cars run1 leads · 2 lead and follow
One pilot car leads the load unless the permit says otherwise; with two, one leads and one follows.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026RadiosCB in the truck · two-way radio
The truck needs a working CB, and every pilot car must be able to talk with the truck and each other; company radios are acceptable for that.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026Convoys2 loads · 200′ total · 14′ max
A convoy is limited to:
- No more than 3 off-road units or 2 vehicles with loads
- 200′ combined length, not counting pilot cars
- 14′ maximum width
Convoy pilot carsFront and rear · CONVOY signs
A convoy needs two pilot cars, one at the front and one at the rear, both showing a CONVOY sign as well as the OVERSIZE signs.
- Convoys are not allowed in the Anchorage or Fairbanks urban areas
Long single-unit vehiclesOver 65′: 1 · over 85′: 2
Single-unit vehicles or loads over 65′ up to 85′ long need at least 1 pilot car on all routes; over 85′, at least 2.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full3 official sources
Pilot cars by width
Loads over 10′6″ wide through 12′ require at least one pilot car. The manual specifies at least two above 12′ through 14′, at least three above 14′ through 18′ and at least four above 18′, unless the permit states otherwise for those wider bands. Follow the permit's count and placement requirements.
Height pole and length
Above 17′, a front height-pole pilot car is ordinarily required. A route section previously determined in writing to have no overhead structures or utilities does not require that pilot car; north of the Fox Weigh Station, the pole is not required. Length-based pilot-car requirements depend on whether the move uses a single-unit vehicle or a combination.
Pilot-car operators
Pilot-car operators must meet Alaska's age, license, training, equipment, sign, light, radio, position and spacing rules. They carry proof of training. Where the permit and an older general attachment differ, follow the permit.
Height pole
Loads over 17′ high follow a front pilot car carrying a height pole at least 6″ above the highest point of the load. No height pole is required north of the Fox Weigh Station.
Police and troopers
When an adequate emergency traffic lane cannot be provided, large buildings or structures may have to be reduced in size, and coordination with local police or State troopers may also be required.
Pilot car vehicle
Pilot cars must be legal-size passenger vehicles or light trucks that are not towing a trailer, and they need: Commercial vehicle insurance. OVERSIZE, WIDE LOAD or LONG LOAD sign. Roof-mounted amber beacon visible for at least 500′.
Pilot car equipment
Every pilot car carries at all times while escorting: 18″ or 24″ STOP/SLOW paddle. Three bi-directional reflective triangles. 5 B:C fire extinguisher. Highly reflectorized vest, shirt or jacket. Flashlight with a red cone or lighted wand.
Pilot car driver
Pilot car drivers must complete State-approved flagger training and carry proof of it. At least 18 for noncommercial vehicles, 19 for intrastate and 21 for interstate commercial vehicles.
Where pilot cars run
One pilot car leads the load unless the permit says otherwise; with two, one leads and one follows.
Radios
The truck needs a working CB, and every pilot car must be able to talk with the truck and each other; company radios are acceptable for that.
Convoys
A convoy is limited to: No more than 3 off-road units or 2 vehicles with loads. 200′ combined length, not counting pilot cars. 14′ maximum width.
Convoy pilot cars
A convoy needs two pilot cars, one at the front and one at the rear, both showing a CONVOY sign as well as the OVERSIZE signs. Convoys are not allowed in the Anchorage or Fairbanks urban areas.
Long single-unit vehicles
Single-unit vehicles or loads over 65′ up to 85′ long need at least 1 pilot car on all routes; over 85′, at least 2.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
Night moves need authorization on the permit.- Weekend and urban limits depend on the permit, route and load size.
Independence Day 2027Independence Day falls on Sunday, July 4, 2027, so holiday movement restrictions run for 84 hours from 12:00 pm Friday, July 2. Which loads are covered: see the holiday travel ban card.
- Jul2Restriction starts at 12:00 pm
- Jul3Independence Day weekend
- Jul4Independence Day
- Jul5Independence Day weekend
The rule in full7 official sources
Convoys
Convoy moves need their own single-trip permit, with limits on load count and size, route area, two escorts, signs, spacing, traffic control and darkness. Several similar loads do not make a convoy without that permit.
Night travel
Moving in darkness needs authorization and the lighting and tape plan, or Attachment HD. Weekend, holiday, rush-hour, weather and route limits still apply unless the permit says otherwise.
Weekends and towns
Weekend limits, and limits in seven named urban areas, depend on the load size, route, season, permit type and what the permit says. There is no single statewide answer.
Check each segment
Check local time and the permit's conditions for every segment, including the seven defined urban areas and your width, length and overhang.
Night moves
Night moves need written authorization plus the lighting and tape attachment or an approved plan. They do not lift weekend, holiday, rush-hour, weather, facility or route limits.
Speed limits for permitted loads
Overwidth, overheight, overhang and overweight moves have speed restrictions that depend on the load and its percentage of legal weight. Some bridge crossings require reduced speed and travel along the center. Follow the issued permit's speed conditions for each road and bridge, and check current route conditions.
Fairbanks winter rules
Winter rules for Fairbanks North apply October 1–April 15. They depend on the route, permit type, size, escort position, Coldfoot conditions and trailer setup. They apply only there, not statewide.
Weekend limits
Permits may bar movement after noon on Saturday and any time on Sunday; the permit says where and when its restrictions apply.
Urban peak-hour limits
When the permit says so, permitted loads may not travel inside these urban areas during its travel restrictions: Anchorage. Eagle River. Fairbanks. Juneau. Kenai/Soldotna. Ketchikan. Palmer/Wasilla.
Hours of darkness
Over-width loads move in daylight only unless equipped with the lighting and reflective tape described in the manual's Hours of Darkness section, or as the permit specifies. Night authorization does not lift peak-traffic, weekend or holiday restrictions.
Let traffic pass
Over-width loads must use all pull-offs and turnouts so traffic is not delayed more than 10 minutes and/or no more than five vehicles are delayed in rural areas.
Holiday travel ban
On the Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day holidays, loads wider than 10′6″ may not move on any road on the Kenai Peninsula south of Potter Weigh Station or on the Parks, Glenn and Richardson highways.
Independence Day 2027
Independence Day falls on Sunday, July 4, 2027, so holiday movement restrictions run for 84 hours from 12:00 pm Friday, July 2. Which loads are covered: see the holiday travel ban card. Restriction starts at 12:00 pm (Jul 2, 2027), Independence Day weekend (Jul 3, 2027), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2027), Independence Day weekend (Jul 5, 2027).
- 07Flags & lamps
Signs, flags and lights
Oversize signs48″ × 12″ · black on yellow
Oversize signs are black lettering on a yellow background, at least 48″ long by 12″ wide, with letters at least 10″ tall and a 1½″ brush stroke.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026Over-length markingRed-white tape · LONG LOAD sign
Over-length loads carry alternating red and white reflective tape along at least half of each side, and a rear LONG LOAD or OVERSIZE sign when:
- A single vehicle is over 53′ long
- A combination is over 75′ long
Railroad crossingsCall the Alaska Railroad
Arrange the move with the Alaska Railroad when the load may sit on a crossing for more than 15 seconds, may catch, drag or strike crossing infrastructure, or may contact a railroad structure.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full5 official sources
Wide loads
Every wide load needs mirrors, OVERSIZE signs front and rear, and an amber beacon or light bar visible from 500 feet. Keep to the speed rules and let traffic pass. Flags: above 12′ through 14′ wide, at the widest point on each side; above 14′, at all four corners.
Your responsibilities
The permit holder is responsible for route clearance, utilities, Alaska Railroad coordination, traffic impact and reporting any damage. A map or sample application is not permission to use a route.
Convoy conditions
Convoys move only under their single-trip permit and its attachment. Check the load count, size, excluded routes, two escorts, spacing, signs, traffic control and darkness conditions.
Oversize signs
Oversize signs are black lettering on a yellow background, at least 48″ long by 12″ wide, with letters at least 10″ tall and a 1½″ brush stroke.
Over-length marking
Over-length loads carry alternating red and white reflective tape along at least half of each side, and a rear LONG LOAD or OVERSIZE sign when: A single vehicle is over 53′ long. A combination is over 75′ long.
Railroad crossings
Arrange the move with the Alaska Railroad when the load may sit on a crossing for more than 15 seconds, may catch, drag or strike crossing infrastructure, or may contact a railroad structure.
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Carry the permitCarry the issued permit and produce it on request.
- What to apply withApply with the company and vehicle details, the load, origin and destination, route and timing, dimensions, and every axle, tire and weight.
- Papers for seasonal exceptionsA seasonal exception needs its proof in the truck.
- Application detailsApplications name the company paying for the permit and, if different, the carrier hauling the load, each with its USDOT number.
Application detailsUSDOT numbers · 24 hours ahead
Applications name the company paying for the permit and, if different, the carrier hauling the load, each with its USDOT number.
- Request at least 24 hours ahead; most requests are processed the same business day
The rule in full9 official sources
Carry the permit
Carry the issued permit and produce it on request. Confirm the accepted paper or electronic format with the issuing office and follow facility instructions; do not alter the permit.
What to apply with
Apply with the company and vehicle details, the load, origin and destination, route and timing, dimensions, and every axle, tire and weight. Keep the signed application. The form or a sample permit is not authorization to move.
Papers for seasonal exceptions
A seasonal exception needs its proof in the truck. Examples: a time-sensitive bill of lading, produce timing records, intermodal tank papers, a Health & Safety permit, or the required bus details.
Application details
Applications name the company paying for the permit and, if different, the carrier hauling the load, each with its USDOT number. Request at least 24 hours ahead; most requests are processed the same business day.
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
- Car and boat carriers
- Culverts and tanks
- Paint stripers
- Snow removal
- Utility poles
- Health & Safety
- Utility OS/WR and named government seasonal
- Snow programs
Extended-period (annual) permitsUp to 1 year · 10′6″ W max
Permits for up to one year are not available for loads that are:
- Over 10′6″ wide
- Over 15′ high (over 17′ between the Fox Weigh Station and Prudhoe Bay)
- Over legal length
- Overhang over 10′
- Over 125% of legal weight
Fairbanks north winter exceptionsOct 1–Apr 15 north of Fox
From October 1 to April 15, the normal weekend restrictions do not apply north or east of the Fox Weigh Station on the Steese, Elliott and Dalton highways.
- North of Coldfoot (MP 175), one pilot car named on the permit may not be required, depending on the load's length and the permit
Measuring structuresWidth at eaves and fixtures
Width of buildings and modular loads is measured at the widest point, including roof eaves, additions and attached fixtures.
14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full8 official sources
Special permits
Alaska has separate rules for long-combination corridors, convoys, Fairbanks winter moves, short tracked-vehicle moves, specialty trailers and push/pull vehicles. SWOOP permits, seasonal programs, ferries and the Whittier Tunnel have their own rules too. Match the vehicle and route to the right program.
SWOOP templates
SWOOP templates cover car and boat carriers, culverts and tanks, paint stripers, snow removal, utility poles, Health & Safety, Utility OS/WR and named government seasonal and snow programs. Check the current permit and eligibility before applying.
- 11Alaska DOT&PF — SWOOP Permit Types Checked
- 31SWOOP Permits Launch Flyer Checked
Extended-period (annual) permits
Permits for up to one year are not available for loads that are: Over 10′6″ wide. Over 15′ high (over 17′ between the Fox Weigh Station and Prudhoe Bay). Over legal length. Overhang over 10′. Over 125% of legal weight.
Fairbanks north winter exceptions
From October 1 to April 15, the normal weekend restrictions do not apply north or east of the Fox Weigh Station on the Steese, Elliott and Dalton highways. North of Coldfoot (MP 175), one pilot car named on the permit may not be required, depending on the load's length and the permit.
Measuring structures
Width of buildings and modular loads is measured at the widest point, including roof eaves, additions and attached fixtures.
Price your Alaska loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
AK / Permit worksheet
Price your Alaska movement.
Enter the complete loaded vehicle. Get estimated agency fees and escort requirements before sharing your contact details.
The numbers behind your next move.
Your result will show the agency fee breakdown, potential pilot-car requirements, and the rules used to calculate them.
- 01 State agency fee subtotal
- 02 Escort & survey considerations
- 03 Sources & pricing assumptions
Single-state pricing uses the mileage you enter. For a proposed route and intermediate states, use the route calculator.
About the example equipment
The samples use ODPermit’s editable 48 ft flatbed · 5 axles planning profile. Loaded dimensions, gross weight, 100 state miles and Alaska registration are example inputs, not a capacity rating or a route approval. Replace them with your actual setup.
Great Dane Freedom flatbed brochure — Drop-deck option: 20–26 in drop from the upper deck with a 40–34 in rear deck height, which gives the 60 in upper-deck planning height. Platform length, combined tare and tractor geometry are editable ODPermit assumptions.
Disclaimer
General information only. It is not legal advice and not a permit. ODPermit is operated by Frontline Express LLC, a private company, not a government agency.
We summarize official sources as of the dates shown, but rules change often and a summary can be incomplete or out of date. Only a permit issued by the state or local agency authorizes an oversize or overweight move, and that permit and the agency’s current rules control. Confirm limits, escorts, routes and travel times with the issuing agency before you move a load.
This information is provided “as is,” without warranties of any kind. To the extent the law allows, Frontline Express LLC is not liable for losses, fines or delays that result from relying on it.
Terms of service apply.
BEFORE THE TRUCK ROLLS
Turn the estimate
into a permitted move.
Confirm the loaded measurements, carrier details, travel dates and exact pickup and delivery. We can help coordinate permits, escorts and route surveys around those facts.
THE SOURCE RECORD
Official references.
Read the rule behind each requirement. These are dated references; current restrictions and the issued permit control your move.
- 01Alaska Administrative Code, Title 17 — Transportation and Public Facilities
17 AAC 25.011-.015
Source record: - 02
- 03Alaska Bridge Formula Chart for Gross Vehicle Weights
Bridge Formula Chart for Gross Vehicle Weights · Page 1
Source record: - 04
- 05
- 0617 AAC 25 — Commercial Vehicle Size, Weight & Permit Regulations (DOT&PF reproduction, incl. amendments eff. 1/11/2024)
17 AAC 25.012 (size), 25.013 (weight), 25.320 (permits)
Source record: - 07AMHS Vehicle Weight Restrictions and Vessel/Port Capacities
Vehicle Weight Restriction FAQs and Vessel-Specific Vehicle Restrictions · Page 1
Source record: - 08Alaska Marine Highway System Travel Policies
Vehicles & Vehicle Categories; Vehicle Restrictions for Vessels & Ports
Source record:
All 33 references
- 09
- 10
- 11
- 12
- 13Alaska DOT&PF — Information Required When Applying for Permits
Items 2-3 and 12; advance notice paragraph
Source record: - 14Alaska DOT&PF — Administrative Permit Manual: Oversize and Overweight Permits (April 2023)
Sections 3.2, 5-10, 12-17
Source record: - 15Permit Attachment PC — Pilot Car Information
Attachment PC — Pilot Car Information · Page 1
Source record: - 16
- 17
- 18Permit Attachment HS — Maximum Permitted Highway Speeds
Attachment HS — Maximum Permitted Highway Speeds · Page 1
Source record: - 19Permit Attachment FNW — Fairbanks North Winter
Attachment FNW — Fairbanks North Winter · Page 1
Source record: - 20Alaska DOT&PF — Holiday Closures notice (PDF dated April 2026)
Oversize holiday travel restriction paragraph
Source record: - 21
- 22Permit Attachment RR — Alaska Railroad Corporation
Attachment RR — Alaska Railroad Corporation · Page 1
Source record: - 23Oversize/Overweight Nondisible Permit Application
Nondisible Permit Application · Page 1
Source record: - 24Oversize/Overweight Nondisible Permit Application Example
Completed Nondisible Permit Application Example · Page 1
Source record: - 25
- 26Weight Restriction Information Bulletin
Weight Restriction Information Bulletin · Page 1
Source record: - 27Permit Attachment E — Request for Exception to Weight Restrictions
Attachment E — Request for Exception · Page 1
Source record: - 28Overweight Axle Permit — Seasonal Produce and Intermodal Loads
Overweight Axle Permit · Page 1
Source record: - 29Commissioner Waiver of Provisions — Health & Safety Permit Fee
Decision and Finding · Page 1
Source record: - 30
- 31
- 3223 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record: - 3323 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: