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ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE IL

IllinoisOversize & overweight permits.

Illinois overweight fees can depend on actual axle groups and distance. Bring the scale weights, spacing and loaded dimensions to the quote.

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General information only, not legal advice or a permit. Confirm with the issuing agency before you move. Read the disclaimer

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Illinois · General width8′6″
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  1. 01Legal size

    What is legal without a permit?

    Axle limits Legal With a permit
    • Tandem (5-axle combination)48k lb
    • Drive tandem (6+ axles)48k lb
    • Semitrailer tandem (6+ axles)60k lb
    • Legal limits are from 625 ILCS 5/15-111; permit figures are IDOT's practical maximum weights (92 Ill. Adm. Code 554.604), and IDOT says all overweight requests are considered.
    • Practical maximum gross: 100,000 lb on 5 axles, 120,000 lb on 6 or more.
    • Overweight and towed permits need at least 8′1″ steer-to-drive spacing, 18′6″ before the first trailer axle and 43′6″ total spacing.
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full5 official sources

    General width: 8′6″

    Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; safety-device, vehicle and load exceptions may apply.

    Loaded height: 13′6″

    Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; listed exceptions and actual route clearances apply.

    NN semitrailer: 53′

    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.

    Trailer and overall length

    OPER 753 sets rules for Class I, Class II and non-designated highways. Legal width is 8′6″ and height 13′6″. Length and access depend on the combination and highway class. Trailer length alone does not tell you whether the loaded rig fits the local roads in.

    Several items on one trailer

    Take loads apart where reasonable. Several items placed side by side, end to end or stacked may not create the oversize. Tell us the quantity and how they are loaded, especially attachments on the same trailer.

    Axle limits: legal and with a permit

    Legal: single 20,000 lb, tandem 34,000 lb. With a permit: tandem (5-axle combination) 48,000 lb, drive tandem (6+ axles) 48,000 lb, semitrailer tandem (6+ axles) 60,000 lb. Legal limits are from 625 ILCS 5/15-111; permit figures are IDOT's practical maximum weights (92 Ill. Adm. Code 554.604), and IDOT says all overweight requests are considered. Practical maximum gross: 100,000 lb on 5 axles, 120,000 lb on 6 or more. Overweight and towed permits need at least 8′1″ steer-to-drive spacing, 18′6″ before the first trailer axle and 43′6″ total spacing.

  2. 02Requirements

    Where each requirement starts

    Flags & lampsWidth over 10′

    Over 10′ wide: OVERSIZE LOAD signs on the front and rear of the vehicle.

    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    What official sources leave open14

    Where Illinois’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.

    • Which IDOT rulebook is current: ilga.gov still shows 92 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 last amended Aug. 1, 2012, and IDOT's permit page cites it. ITAP's home page instead cites a 'Draft Permit Office Policy Manual' (2025 Illinois Register notice of proposed rules renumbering Part 554 as Sections 554.1000+), and OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24, file updated Jan. 2026) cites that draft's Sections 554.1235, 554.1240, 554.1245 and 554.1700. This file uses OPER 993 where it states a rule, the adopted 2012 rules otherwise, and nothing from the draft.
    • Escorts over 18′ high conflict: OPER 993 requires three civilian escorts plus Illinois State Police; 92 Ill. Adm. Code 554.407(b)(1) (2012) requires two civilian escorts, plus State Police under 554.407(d). 554.407(d)(2)(C) also lets IDOT waive the State Police escort over 18′ high if a field investigation finds no overhead obstructions; OPER 993 does not mention a waiver. OPER 993 is used.
    • Travel hours conflict: Part 554.422 (2012) allows ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset, 7 days, only up to 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 115′ long (larger loads Monday–Friday plus Saturday until noon). OPER 993 (2024) allows 24/7 up to 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 200′ long, the daylight window 7 days up to 14′6″ wide and 15′ high, and limits over 16′ wide or 17′ high to 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays. OPER 993 is used.
    • Cook County expressway exceptions conflict: OPER 993 allows over-12′/13′6″/120,000 lb loads on I-80 from I-57 east to Indiana, I-55 south of exit 277, I-57 south of US 6 and I-290 north of I-294. Part 554.422(b)(1) and 554.504(b) list I-55 north of exit 277 and do not list I-80, and tie the weight limit to practical maximum weights (100,000 lb on a 5-axle). Part 554.508(b) also caps height on Chicago-area controlled-access highways at 13′6″. OPER 993 is used.
    • Escort vehicle size: Part 554.408(a) (adopted) allows a passenger car or a second-division vehicle up to 8,000 lb gross vehicle weight; the draft policy manual's Section 554.1240, which OPER 993 points to for escort requirements, allows up to 26,000 lb GVWR. No weight limit is stated on the escort card.
    • IDOT's draft policy manual (Section 554.1320) says width over 14′6″ requires a superload permit; the adopted Part 554 does not define a superload threshold. Not used as a threshold here.
    • City of Chicago permit phone: OPER 993 lists 312-744-4699; Part 554.422 lists 312/744-4696. OPER 993 is used.
    • Toll road limits: Part 554.312 says most toll roads allow 12′ wide and 14′6″ high; Part 554.504(c) says 10′ wide (12′ on the I-80 and US 51 sections). The Illinois Tollway's own permit page lists routine overwidth permits up to 12′, typically treats loads over 12′ wide, 14′6″ high or 145′ long as superloads, and issues no overwidth permits over 10′ through construction zones. Part 554 gives the Tollway permit desk as ext. 3822 or 3847; OPER 993 and the Tollway give ext. 4847. Check with the Illinois Tollway.
    • IDOT's holiday PDF has two date errors: the 2026 Independence Day window ends 'Sunrise Sunday, July 5, 2024' (2026 meant), and the 2027 Thanksgiving window ends 'Sunrise Friday, November 27, 2027', but Nov 27, 2027 is a Saturday (Friday is Nov 26). The holiday list uses the actual holiday dates.
    • Legal overall length depends on highway class and combination (OPER 753 table and 625 ILCS 5/15-107); no single legal length is listed. The 80′ length marker is the single-object permit trigger from Part 554.507, not a vehicle length limit.
    • No rear-overhang distance for flags or lamps is stated in OPER 993 or Part 554; flags go on all extremities, protrusions and overhangs.
    • The ITAP local permitting contacts page loads, but its table filled no rows in the fetched page (it loads data in the browser).
    • No escort-driver certification or training requirement is stated beyond age 18 and a proper license.
    • USDOT number: ITAP links to 'Apply for a USDOT Number' but no OS/OW rule requiring one was found.
    The rule in full2 official sources

    Width 8′6″: Legal width

    Up to 8′6″ wide, load included, is legal; the same 8′6″ applies on Interstates and Class I and II highways. Wider needs a permit.

    Width 10′: OVERSIZE LOAD signs

    Over 10′ wide: OVERSIZE LOAD signs on the front and rear of the vehicle.

    Width 12′: End of 24/7 travel

    Up to 12′ wide (13′6″ high, 200′ long) may move 24/7, with one extra civilian escort at night. Wider loads move in daylight only, and Cook County expressways are closed to them except listed segments.

    Width 14′6″: 1 civilian escort

    Over 14′6″ wide: one civilian escort. When the permit lists OPER 993 Provision 9, loads over 14′6″ up to 16′ wide in nine metro counties move only 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays.

    Width 16′: 3 escorts · 9–3 weekdays

    Over 16′ wide: three civilian escorts, and travel only 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday–Friday unless the permit says otherwise.

    Width 18′: State Police escort

    Over 18′ wide: an Illinois State Police escort on top of the civilian escorts, set up with ISP at least 24 working hours before moving.

    Height 13′6″: Legal height

    Up to 13′6″ high, load included, is legal on any Illinois highway; taller needs a permit.

    Height 14′6″: Height pole escort

    Over 14′6″ high: one civilian escort leading the load with a pole for measuring vertical clearance.

    Height 15′: Practical maximum

    15′ is IDOT's practical maximum height. Above it, what can be permitted depends on the overhead clearances each District reports.

    Height 16′: Route survey

    16′ or taller: the applicant surveys the route and lists every overhead obstruction; the load must clear each by 3 inches.

    Height 17′: Utilities · District survey

    17′ or taller: contact every company with overhead utility lines on the route and list them on the application; a District route survey is also required.

    Height 18′: 3 escorts + State Police

    Over 18′ high: three civilian escorts plus an Illinois State Police escort, set up with ISP at least 24 working hours before moving.

    Length 80′: Permit for objects over 80′

    Any object over 80′ long needs a permit, and must carry two flashing amber lights: one over the cab and one within 10′ of the rear of the object.

    Length 75′: OVERSIZE LOAD signs

    Over 75′ long: OVERSIZE LOAD signs on the front and rear.

    Length 110′: 1 civilian escort

    Over 110′ long: one civilian escort.

    Length 145′: 3 civilian escorts

    Over 145′ long: three civilian escorts.

    Length 200′: State Police · weekdays only

    Over 200′ long: Illinois State Police escort, and travel only from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset, Monday–Friday.

    Overhang 3′ front: Front overhang permit

    A load on a single vehicle, or on the first vehicle of a combination, that sticks out 3′ beyond the front bumper needs a permit.

    Weight 80,000 lb: Legal gross

    80,000 lb gross for 5+ axle combinations, 20,000 lb per single axle and 34,000 lb per tandem, subject to the bridge formula.

    Weight 100,000 lb: 5-axle practical max

    IDOT's practical maximum for a 5-axle tractor-semitrailer is 100,000 lb, with no more than 48,000 lb on either tandem.

    Weight 120,000 lb: 6+ axle practical max

    IDOT's practical maximum for a 6+ axle tractor-semitrailer is 120,000 lb gross, with 48,000 lb on the drive tandem and 60,000 lb on the semitrailer tandem.

  3. 03The permit

    Which permit do you need?

    1. IDOT takes state-highway oversize/overweight applications through ITAP.
    2. The state permit does not cover local roads, the Illinois Tollway or other separate facilities.
    3. Get each road owner's permission for those parts of the move.
    Illinois Department of Transportation
    SuperloadsExtra analysis time and fees

    Superload moves, and moves on nonstandard vehicles or axle setups, may be allowed if pavement and bridge stresses are not exceeded. They normally take extra time and fees for analysis.

    • IDOT's practical maximums (bigger moves get individual review): 14′6″ wide, 15′ high, 145′ long; 100,000 lb on 5 axles, 120,000 lb on 6+
    • Over 18′ wide: generally allowed only on Interstates and other multilane controlled-access highways
    • Overweight and towed permits need at least 8′1″ steer-to-drive, 18′6″ before the first trailer axle and 43′6″ total axle spacing; towed permits that fall short are processed as superloads
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Surveys and investigations16′ H survey · 16′ W District check

    Some loads need a route check before IDOT issues the permit:

    • 16′ or taller: applicant's route survey of all overhead obstructions, 3″ clearance
    • 17′ or taller: contact all overhead utilities and a District route survey
    • Over 16′ wide: District investigation (one covers identical moves within 30 days)
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Local roads, Chicago and Cook CountySeparate local permits

    An IDOT permit covers only highways under state jurisdiction. Local roads need permission from the local authority before the move.

    • IDOT's permit page links a list of local permitting contacts (ITAP)
    3IDOT — Oversize and Overweight Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Chicago and Cook CountyCook expressways: 12′ W · 13′6″ H cap

    Cook County expressways are closed to loads over 12′ wide, 13′6″ high or 120,000 lb (or the own-powered equivalent), except on these segments:

    • I-80 from I-57 east to the Indiana line, including parts of I-94 and Toll Road I-294
    • I-55 south of exit 277
    • I-57 south of US 6 (159th St.)
    • I-290 north of Toll Road I-294
    • City of Chicago streets and highways other than expressways: call the City of Chicago, 312-744-4699
    • Cook County roads outside Chicago: Cook County Permit Office, 312-603-1670
    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Illinois TollwaySeparate Tollway permit

    Toll roads need their own Illinois Tollway permit, and you need an IDOT permit number first.

    • Apply at iltolltruckpermit.com or call 630-241-6800 ext. 4847
    • Tollway superloads are reviewed by Tollway engineering
    6Illinois Tollway — Truck Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Official route and permit tools
    The rule in full5 official sources

    The permit authority

    IDOT takes state-highway oversize/overweight applications through ITAP. The state permit does not cover local roads, the Illinois Tollway or other separate facilities. Get each road owner's permission for those parts of the move.

    Roads & authorities

    IDOT permits apply only to highways under IDOT jurisdiction; local roads, Chicago, county roads and the Illinois Tollway require separate permission.

    When a permit is needed

    Obtain the applicable Illinois permit for nonconforming size or weight before movement; permits are generally for non-divisible loads and vehicles.

    Larger-load review

    Illinois routine and superload handling depends on exact dimension/weight band, axle spacing, route structures, district review and the issued ITAP permit; no universal envelope is assumed.

    Superloads

    Superload moves, and moves on nonstandard vehicles or axle setups, may be allowed if pavement and bridge stresses are not exceeded. They normally take extra time and fees for analysis. IDOT's practical maximums (bigger moves get individual review): 14′6″ wide, 15′ high, 145′ long; 100,000 lb on 5 axles, 120,000 lb on 6+. Over 18′ wide: generally allowed only on Interstates and other multilane controlled-access highways. Overweight and towed permits need at least 8′1″ steer-to-drive, 18′6″ before the first trailer axle and 43′6″ total axle spacing; towed permits that fall short are processed as superloads.

    Surveys and investigations

    Some loads need a route check before IDOT issues the permit: 16′ or taller: applicant's route survey of all overhead obstructions, 3″ clearance. 17′ or taller: contact all overhead utilities and a District route survey. Over 16′ wide: District investigation (one covers identical moves within 30 days).

    Local roads, Chicago and Cook County

    An IDOT permit covers only highways under state jurisdiction. Local roads need permission from the local authority before the move. IDOT's permit page links a list of local permitting contacts (ITAP).

    Chicago and Cook County

    Cook County expressways are closed to loads over 12′ wide, 13′6″ high or 120,000 lb (or the own-powered equivalent), except on these segments: I-80 from I-57 east to the Indiana line, including parts of I-94 and Toll Road I-294. I-55 south of exit 277. I-57 south of US 6 (159th St.). I-290 north of Toll Road I-294. City of Chicago streets and highways other than expressways: call the City of Chicago, 312-744-4699. Cook County roads outside Chicago: Cook County Permit Office, 312-603-1670.

    Illinois Tollway

    Toll roads need their own Illinois Tollway permit, and you need an IDOT permit number first. Apply at iltolltruckpermit.com or call 630-241-6800 ext. 4847. Tollway superloads are reviewed by Tollway engineering.

  4. 04Permit cost

    What does the permit cost?

    Example agency fee$15
    • 8′7″ W
    • 13′ H
    • 70′
    • 72,000 lb
    • 100 miles
    The rule in full2 official sources

    Example agency fee

    $15 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 Illinois. Enter your own load in the calculator below.

    What the fee covers

    Illinois'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.

  5. 05Pilot cars

    When do you need pilot cars?

    Width
    Height
    Length
    One civilian pilot car: ahead on two-lane roads and behind on divided multi-lane roads

    Minimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.

    Height poleOver 14′6″ H · lead escort

    The escort leading a load over 14′6″ high carries a pole for measuring vertical clearance, and its driver warns the truck driver of any overhead obstruction that won't clear.

    • The height-pole escort must travel in front of the load
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Illinois State Police escortsOver 18′ W/H or 200′ L

    An Illinois State Police escort is required for moves:

    • Over 18′ wide
    • Over 18′ high
    • Over 200′ long
    • When a bridge analysis or District investigation calls for it
    • Set it up with the ISP Central Office (217-782-6527) at least 24 working hours ahead
    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Two triggers at onceFront + rear escorts

    A load over two or more of these needs two civilian escorts, one in front and one behind:

    • Over 14′6″ wide
    • Over 14′6″ high
    • Over 110′ long
    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Civilian escort vehicleAmber light · sign · radio

    The escort vehicle must give a clear, unobstructed view front and rear, and have:

    • Rotating or flashing amber lights on top, visible at 500′ in sunlight
    • OVERSIZE LOAD sign facing the front when leading, the rear when trailing (5′ by 12″ panel with 8″ letters allowed)
    • Radio contact with the permit vehicle driver
    • Driver 18 or older and properly licensed
    • $500,000 per-occurrence combined liability insurance
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Where the escort ridesAhead on 2-lane, behind on divided

    On two-lane highways the escort leads the load; on multilane divided highways it trails. With two escorts, one leads and one trails.

    • About 300′ from the load in rural areas: ahead on two-lane highways, behind on multilane highways
    • The height-pole escort must travel in front of the load
    • A separate escort for each load
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    No convoysOnly with ISP escort

    Permitted loads may not travel in convoy unless the Permit Office authorizes it and an Illinois State Police escort travels with them.

    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full4 official sources

    Two triggers mean two escorts

    OPER 993: one civilian escort above 14′6″ wide, 14′6″ high or 110′ long. Two or more of those mean a front and a rear escort. Three civilian escorts above 16′ wide, 18′ high or 145′ long. Police escorts start at larger sizes, or when bridge or district review requires them.

    The permit comes first

    Your permit's own provisions override the general OPER 993 text. Carry the permit and the provisions; paper or electronic copies are fine. Before dispatch, check that permit's travel window, height pole, bridge conditions and any agency coordination.

    Height pole

    The escort leading a load over 14′6″ high carries a pole for measuring vertical clearance, and its driver warns the truck driver of any overhead obstruction that won't clear. The height-pole escort must travel in front of the load.

    Illinois State Police escorts

    An Illinois State Police escort is required for moves: Over 18′ wide. Over 18′ high. Over 200′ long. When a bridge analysis or District investigation calls for it. Set it up with the ISP Central Office (217-782-6527) at least 24 working hours ahead.

    Two triggers at once

    A load over two or more of these needs two civilian escorts, one in front and one behind: Over 14′6″ wide. Over 14′6″ high. Over 110′ long.

    Civilian escort vehicle

    The escort vehicle must give a clear, unobstructed view front and rear, and have: Rotating or flashing amber lights on top, visible at 500′ in sunlight. OVERSIZE LOAD sign facing the front when leading, the rear when trailing (5′ by 12″ panel with 8″ letters allowed). Radio contact with the permit vehicle driver. Driver 18 or older and properly licensed. $500,000 per-occurrence combined liability insurance.

    Where the escort rides

    On two-lane highways the escort leads the load; on multilane divided highways it trails. With two escorts, one leads and one trails. About 300′ from the load in rural areas: ahead on two-lane highways, behind on multilane highways. The height-pole escort must travel in front of the load. A separate escort for each load.

    No convoys

    Permitted loads may not travel in convoy unless the Permit Office authorizes it and an Illinois State Police escort travels with them.

    Over 14′6″ wide

    One civilian pilot car: ahead on two-lane roads and behind on divided multi-lane roads. Follow the permit's placement for other road configurations.

    Over 16′ wide

    Three civilian pilot cars. The permit assigns their positions.

    Over 18′ wide

    Three civilian pilot cars. The permit assigns their positions. Arrange Illinois State Police assistance for width or height over 18 ft, or length over 200 ft. It accompanies the civilian team. Only the responsible agencies can approve a stated exemption or local-police substitution.

    Over 14′6″ high

    One front civilian pilot car with a height pole on every road.

    Over 18′ high

    Three civilian pilot cars. The permit assigns their positions. A height-pole car must lead the load and is part of this team. Arrange Illinois State Police assistance for width or height over 18 ft, or length over 200 ft. It accompanies the civilian team. Only the responsible agencies can approve a stated exemption or local-police substitution.

    Over 110′ long

    One civilian pilot car: ahead on two-lane roads and behind on divided multi-lane roads. Follow the permit's placement for other road configurations.

    Over 145′ long

    Three civilian pilot cars. The permit assigns their positions.

    Over 200′ long

    Three civilian pilot cars. The permit assigns their positions. Arrange Illinois State Police assistance for width or height over 18 ft, or length over 200 ft. It accompanies the civilian team. Only the responsible agencies can approve a stated exemption or local-police substitution.

  6. 06Travel hours

    When can you move?

    Up to 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 200′ long: 24/7, with one extra escort at night.
    • Up to 14′6″ wide and 15′ high: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, every day.
    • Up to 16′ wide and 17′ high: that window Monday–Friday and Saturday until noon; larger loads 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays.
    • Exception: over 14′6″ through 16′ wide in the nine counties listed below: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday–Friday only.

    No movement for any load with at least one dimension over legal (except over-width-only implements of husbandry) in these windows: noon Wed Dec 31, 2025 to sunrise Fri Jan 2; noon Sun May 24 to sunrise Tue May 26; noon Fri July 3 to sunrise Sun July 5; noon Sun Sept 6 to sunrise Tue Sept 8; noon Wed Nov 25 to sunrise Fri Nov 27; noon Thu Dec 24 to sunrise Sat Dec 26.

    1. Jan1New Year's Day
    2. May25Memorial Day
    3. Jul4Independence Day
    4. Sep7Labor Day
    5. Nov26Thanksgiving Day
    6. Dec25Christmas Day
    14IDOT Permit Office — 2026–2027 Holiday Office Closings and Permit Travel Restrictions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full5 official sources

    Hours by load size

    Up to 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 200′ long: 24/7, with one extra civilian escort in darkness. Up to 14′6″ wide and 15′ high: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, every day. Up to 16′ wide and 17′ high: that window Monday–Friday and Saturday until noon, except loads over 14′6″ through 16′ wide in Cook, DuPage, Lake, Kane, Madison, McHenry, Monroe, St. Clair and Will counties are limited to 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday–Friday. Wider or taller: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays. Over 200′ long: weekday daylight only. Overweight loads of legal size: 24/7. Holiday limits are posted on ITAP.

    OPER 993 hours

    Overweight loads of legal size can move 24/7. Larger loads use daylight or weekday windows. OPER 993 and the permit control.

    Current route restrictions

    Right before moving, check the permanent, temporary and night restriction lists, posted structures, weather, Chicago, county and Tollway permissions, holidays and the assigned route.

    Hours by load size

    Unless the permit says otherwise: Overweight, legal size: 24/7. Up to 12′ wide, 13′6″ high, 200′ long: 24/7, with one extra civilian escort at night. Up to 14′6″ wide, 15′ high and 200′ long: ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset, 7 days. Up to 16′ wide and 17′ high: same window Monday–Friday, and Saturday until noon. Over 16′ wide or 17′ high: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday–Friday. Over 200′ long: daylight window Monday–Friday only.

    Nine metro counties

    Loads over 14′6″ up to 16′ wide in Cook, DuPage, Lake, Kane, Madison, McHenry, Monroe, St. Clair and Will counties move only 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday–Friday, when the permit includes this provision.

    Weather stops

    No moves when the road is covered with snow or ice, when rain, snow, fog or smog cuts visibility, or when State Police consider travel unsafe. House trailers over 12′ wide may not move in wind gusts over 25 mph.

    2026 holiday travel restrictions

    No movement for any load with at least one dimension over legal (except over-width-only implements of husbandry) in these windows: noon Wed Dec 31, 2025 to sunrise Fri Jan 2; noon Sun May 24 to sunrise Tue May 26; noon Fri July 3 to sunrise Sun July 5; noon Sun Sept 6 to sunrise Tue Sept 8; noon Wed Nov 25 to sunrise Fri Nov 27; noon Thu Dec 24 to sunrise Sat Dec 26. New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2026), Memorial Day (May 25, 2026), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2026), Labor Day (Sep 7, 2026), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26, 2026), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2026).

    2027 holiday travel restrictions

    Same restriction for 2027: noon Thu Dec 31, 2026 to sunrise Sat Jan 2; noon Sun May 30 to sunrise Tue June 1; noon Sat July 3 to sunrise Mon July 5; noon Sun Sept 5 to sunrise Tue Sept 7; noon Wed Nov 24 to sunrise after Thanksgiving (IDOT's PDF says 'Friday, November 27', but Nov 27, 2027 is a Saturday, so confirm with IDOT); noon Fri Dec 24 to sunrise Sun Dec 26. New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2027), Memorial Day (May 31, 2027), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2027), Labor Day (Sep 6, 2027), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 25, 2027), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2027).

  7. 07Flags & lamps

    Signs, flags and lights

    The rule in full2 official sources

    Signs, flags and lights

    Use amber lights, OVERSIZE LOAD signs and 18-inch red flags. Check route clearances, follow bridge controls and secure the load as the permit requires.

    Amber lights on the load

    Every load moving under an oversize/overweight permit displays an operating amber light. If the load hides it from the rear, add a light at the rear. Objects over 80′ long: one amber light over the cab and one within 10′ of the rear of the object.

    Signs and flags

    OVERSIZE LOAD signs go on escort vehicles and on the front and rear of loads over 10′ wide, 14′6″ high or 75′ long. Red flags at least 18″ square wave at the extremities and at the ends of all protrusions and overhangs. Sign: yellow, about 7′ wide by 18″ high, with black letters about 12″ high (10″ minimum). Flags: clean, bright red, with no advertising, wording or emblem.

  8. 08Driver paperwork

    What the driver carries

    • Carry the permitCarry the paper or electronic permit and OPER 993 in the truck and show them on request.
    • Paperwork must matchThe driver's papers must match the permit holder, vehicle, load, route and dates.
    • Carry the permit and OPER 993The driver carries the permit, in written or electronic form, and shows it on demand.
    • Liability insuranceEscort vehicles and loads over 10′ wide, 13′6″ high, 110′ long or overweight need $500,000 per-occurrence combined bodily injury and property damage coverage, or self-insurance.
    Carry the permit and OPER 993Paper or electronic

    The driver carries the permit, in written or electronic form, and shows it on demand. Form OPER 993 must also be in the vehicle.

    • Specific provisions on the permit face override OPER 993
    • Off the assigned route, or outside the permit dates, counts as moving without a permit
    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Liability insurance$500,000 per occurrence

    Escort vehicles and loads over 10′ wide, 13′6″ high, 110′ long or overweight need $500,000 per-occurrence combined bodily injury and property damage coverage, or self-insurance.

    4IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full2 official sources

    Carry the permit

    Carry the paper or electronic permit and OPER 993 in the truck and show them on request. Stay on the assigned route and within the permit dates.

    Paperwork must match

    The driver's papers must match the permit holder, vehicle, load, route and dates. Include OPER 993, restriction and structure data, clearance checks and escort records.

    Carry the permit and OPER 993

    The driver carries the permit, in written or electronic form, and shows it on demand. Form OPER 993 must also be in the vehicle. Specific provisions on the permit face override OPER 993. Off the assigned route, or outside the permit dates, counts as moving without a permit.

    Liability insurance

    Escort vehicles and loads over 10′ wide, 13′6″ high, 110′ long or overweight need $500,000 per-occurrence combined bodily injury and property damage coverage, or self-insurance.

  9. 09Special permits

    Special loads and permit programs

    Manufactured homes and buildings16′ W · 115′ L max

    The largest manufactured home, modular section or storage building combination that may move in Illinois is 16′ wide and 115′ long, including the towing vehicle.

    • Over 10′ to 12′ wide: at least a one-ton dual-wheel truck; over 12′: at least a two-ton dual-wheel truck
    • Limited continuous operation permits: 15′ maximum height
    • Building moves: no permits on or across Interstates or other multilane fully access-controlled highways
    292 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full4 official sources

    Special permits

    Special-hauling vehicle (SHV), farm and forestry, house-trailer, crane, sealed-container, emergency and local or Tollway permits each have their own rules.

    Manufactured homes and buildings

    The largest manufactured home, modular section or storage building combination that may move in Illinois is 16′ wide and 115′ long, including the towing vehicle. Over 10′ to 12′ wide: at least a one-ton dual-wheel truck; over 12′: at least a two-ton dual-wheel truck. Limited continuous operation permits: 15′ maximum height. Building moves: no permits on or across Interstates or other multilane fully access-controlled highways.

Price your Illinois loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet

IL / Permit worksheet

Price your Illinois movement.

Enter the complete loaded vehicle. Get estimated agency fees and escort requirements before sharing your contact details.

Crossing state lines? Estimate the whole trip
Single-trip · nondivisible loadOther permits & charges
Start with an example

Example loaded measurements are filled in. Adjust the equipment, mileage and registration to match your movement.

01

Loaded dimensions

Measure ground to highest point, widest point, and the full tractor–trailer–load length. These are not cargo-only dimensions.

Width
Height
Overall length
02

Equipment & registration

Trailer length
Trailer + load length
Axle weights, overhangs & movement details Optional
Front overhang
Enter 0 when there is no overhang.
Rear overhang
Enter 0 when there is no overhang.

Actual axle groups

Some weight fees depend on axle loads and spacing. Enter measured groups in travel order; do not divide gross weight evenly.

No ODPermit fee or markup. No contact details required.

Your estimate

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.

  1. 01 State agency fee subtotal
  2. 02 Escort & survey considerations
  3. 03 Sources & pricing assumptions

Single-state pricing uses the mileage you enter. For a proposed route and intermediate states, use the route calculator.

Agency fees only. Annual permits, specialized products and conditional services have separate terms.See the fee reference
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 Illinois 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.

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.

Request permit help

THE SOURCE RECORD

Official references.

Read the rule behind each requirement. These are dated references; current restrictions and the issued permit control your move.

  1. 01
    IDOT OPER 753 legal dimensions and weights

    Pages 1–2: Class I, Class II, non-designated routes and load arrangement

    Source record:
  2. 02
    92 Ill. Adm. Code Part 554 — Oversize and Overweight Permit Movements on State Highways

    Sections 554.108, 554.408, 554.409, 554.417–554.419, 554.504–554.509, 554.511, 554.604–554.605, 554.611 (Part last amended Aug. 1, 2012)

    Source record:
  3. 03
    IDOT — Oversize and Overweight Permits

    Overview; To Obtain a Local Permit

    Source record:
  4. 04
    IDOT Form OPER 993 (Rev. 08/07/24) — Special Vehicle Movement Permit Provisions

    Provision A (authorized times, axle spacings, convoys, amber light, weather, legal height, insurance, Chicago/Cook County/Toll road restrictions); Provision B (escorts, house trailers, overlength objects, signs, flags); Provision C (special provisions 4 and 9)

    Source record:
  5. 05
    Illinois Transportation Automated Permits

    ITAP home page

    Source record:
  6. 06
    Illinois Tollway — Truck Permits

    Welcome to the Illinois Tollway's Truck Permit Website

    Source record:
  7. 07
    IDOT Table2 — practical maximum overweight fee categories

    IDOT Table2 — practical maximum overweight fee categories

    Source record:
  8. 08
    625 ILCS5/15-307 — overweight-gross schedules

    625 ILCS5/15-307 — overweight-gross schedules

    Source record:
All 16 references
  1. 09
    IDOT permit type and compliance

    Driver copy, OPER 993 and separate local/toll permissions

    Source record:
  2. 10
    IDOT 2025 permit policy — sections 554.1235 and 554.1240

    IDOT 2025 permit policy — sections 554.1235 and 554.1240

    Source record:
  3. 11
    Illinois Permanent OS/OW Route Restrictions

    Permanent restriction list

    Source record:
  4. 12
    Illinois Temporary OS/OW Route Restrictions

    Temporary restriction list dated 8/27/2026

    Source record:
  5. 13
    Illinois Nighttime Temporary OS/OW Route Restrictions

    Nighttime temporary restriction list

    Source record:
  6. 14
    IDOT Permit Office — 2026–2027 Holiday Office Closings and Permit Travel Restrictions

    Permit Travel Restrictions 2026; Permit Travel Restrictions 2027

    Source record:
  7. 15
    23 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths

    Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)

    Source record:
  8. 16
    23 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights

    23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific

    Source record:
How ODPermit uses official sources

ACROSS THE STATE LINE

Keep the whole trip in view.

All state guides