ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE MD
MarylandOversize & overweight permits.
A Maryland load may involve SHA, MDTA and local permits on the same move. Check each road authority, the loaded rig and any escort or engineering conditions.
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- Single20k / 27k lb
- Tandem34k / 52k lb
- Tridem43k / 63k lb
- Permit values are the ones SHA lists under its Super Load (over 150,000 lb gross) heading; the page does not say whether they are maximums.
- 80,000 lb gross maximum without a permit.
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: 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
Legal limits are 8′6″ wide and 13′6″ high. Length and overhang depend on the vehicle, cargo and route, and posted clearances can be lower.
Weight limits
Gross weight alone does not settle it in Maryland. Check every axle and group, spacing, tires, ratings, the bridge formula, registration, who owns the road, posted limits and the route.
Width
Legal width is 102 inches, except where posted lower and for items the law excludes.
Height
Legal height is 13′6″, including the load. Actual clearance on the route still controls.
Axle limits: legal and with a permit
Legal: single 20,000 lb, tandem 34,000 lb, tridem 42,500 lb. With a permit: single 27,000 lb, tandem 52,000 lb, tridem 63,000 lb. Permit values are the ones SHA lists under its Super Load (over 150,000 lb gross) heading; the page does not say whether they are maximums. 80,000 lb gross maximum without a permit.
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Flags & lampsWidth over 9′Over 9′ wide: WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD signs on the front and rear.
1MDOT SHA — Maryland Overdimensional Permit Limitations · checked Oct 13, 2026What official sources leave open14
Where Maryland’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- Travel hours conflict: SHA's Overdimensional Permit Limitations page lets loads up to 225,000 lb, 13′11″ wide, 14′6″ high and 139′ long move 24/7, but COMAR 11.04.02.06 allows moves only from ½ hour after sunrise to ½ hour before sunset, never on Saturday after noon or Sunday, unless the permit sets other dates and hours. Follow the hours printed on the permit.
- SHA's same page lists Super Load (over 150,000 lb) day moves 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. and night moves 8 p.m.–6 a.m., which overlaps its 24/7 allowance for loads up to 225,000 lb; the page does not say which governs.
- COMAR 11.04.02.06 limits loads over 45 tons, 100′ or longer, or 12′ or wider to 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. on the Capital and Baltimore Beltways; SHA's current page does not mention this.
- Police escort at exactly 150,000 lb: COMAR 11.04.04.06 says "in excess of 75 tons"; SHA's page says "75 tons gross weight or more".
- Height survey trigger: SHA's limits page says 14′6″ in height requires a pole vehicle and route survey; the Hauling Permits page says over 14′6″.
- Pole car trigger: COMAR 11.04.04.03 says 14′6″ or more; COMAR 11.04.02.01-1 says exceeding 14′6″.
- SHA's Super Load section lists 120′ length, 16′ width, 16′ height and 27,000 / 52,000 / 63,000 lb single / tandem / tridem weights without saying whether they are maximums or triggers.
- Floating holiday dates (Good Friday, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving) are not published; COMAR says the Unit compiles a yearly holiday-period list available on request after December 15.
- MDTA toll facilities: COMAR 11.04.02.05 allows moves only in daylight between 9 a.m. Monday and noon Friday unless MDTA approves, while the route restrictions say Bay Bridge loads up to 60 tons, 15′ wide, 110′ long and 15′4″ high can cross at all times outside two-way operation.
- Escort sign size: SHA's page says escort signs on the front and rear need 10″ letters on an 18″ × 7′ yellow background (or a 5′ × 12″ roof sign with 8″ letters); COMAR 11.04.04.01B(2) allows a sign at least 5′ wide and 12″ high with 8″ letters on the roof or on the front and rear.
- Exceptional (farm) permit: SHA's linked PDF of Transportation §24-113.2 (footer dated 12/16/11) and COMAR 11.04.01.09F require six or more axles, cap gross at 87,000 lb and require a Level 1 inspection within 180 days; the statute now in effect allows five or six axles, 88,000 lb (five axles) or 95,000 lb (six or more), and an original or electronic permit copy. The cards follow the current statute.
- No official source found on escort driver certification, training or reciprocity (the route survey form only has a "Surveyor/Pilotcar Certification#" field), or on how high to set the height pole (the form only records the setting).
- No official source found on operating authority or USDOT number requirements for permits. COMAR asks blanket-permit applicants for their insurance company's name and lets SHA require a bond or insurance clause for excessive size or weight moves, but sets no general insurance minimum.
- SHA's permit fee chart (footer TMS 4-01) lists $30 at 45 tons, while COMAR 11.04.01.08 sets $30 for the first 40 tons plus $5 per added ton.
The rule in full5 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Up to 102 inches (8′6″) wide moves without a permit; wider needs one.
Width 9′: OVERSIZE LOAD signs
Over 9′ wide: WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD signs on the front and rear.
Width 12′: Construction equipment escort
Construction equipment over 12′ wide traveling off the Interstate system needs 1 escort.
Width 13′: 1 escort
Over 13′ wide: 1 escort on any highway, unless the load is a manufactured housing unit.
Width 14′: 2 escorts · 9–3:30 curfew
14′ wide or more, manufactured housing included: 2 escorts. Curfew: 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. on any highway.
Width 16′: Police escort
16′ wide or more: police escort in addition to the private escorts.
- 11COMAR 11.04.04.06 — Police Escort Checked
Height 13′6″: Legal height
Up to 13′6″ high, vehicle and load, moves without a permit; taller needs one.
Height 14′6″: Pole car
14′6″ high or more: 1 escort, and it must be a pole vehicle.
Height 14′6″: Height route survey
Over 14′6″ high: a height clearance route survey certification goes in with the permit application.
- 7MDOT SHA — Hauling Permits Checked
Height 16′: Excessive size
16′ high or more counts as excessive size under COMAR's permit rules.
Length 70′: Permit length
Indivisible loads over 70′ need a permit. Pilings, poles and mill logs need one over 75′.
Length 85′: 1 escort
Over 85′ long: 1 escort on any highway.
Length 100′: Excessive size
100′ long or more counts as excessive size under COMAR's permit rules.
Length 140′: 2 escorts
140′ long or more: 2 escorts.
Overhang 3′ front: Legal front extension
A load may extend up to 3′ past the front.
Overhang 6′ rear: Legal rear extension
A load may extend up to 6′ past the rear; SHA's page excepts indivisible cargo from this cap.
Overhang 4′ rear: Flags and lamps
Rear overhang beyond 4′ needs flags and lamps, including two red lights on the overhang and one on each side of the load.
Weight 80,000 lb: Legal gross
80,000 lb gross maximum without a permit, with 20,000 lb single, 34,000 lb tandem and 42,500 lb tridem axles. All weights must meet the Federal Bridge Formula charts unless an SHA permit allows more.
Weight 120,000 lb: 1 escort
More than 60 tons (120,000 lb) gross: 1 escort on any highway.
Weight 120,000 lb: 10-business-day lead time
Over 60 tons and up to 250 tons gross: apply at least 10 business days before the move.
Weight 130,000 lb: Police may be required
Between 65 and 75 tons gross, SHA may require a police escort.
- 11COMAR 11.04.04.06 — Police Escort Checked
Weight 150,000 lb: Police escort
Over 75 tons (150,000 lb) gross: police escort in addition to the private escort.
- 11COMAR 11.04.04.06 — Police Escort Checked
Weight 150,000 lb: Super Load permit
Over 150,000 lb gross: Super Load permit with engineering review, plus police and private escorts.
Weight 500,000 lb: Massive weight · 30-day lead
Over 250 tons (500,000 lb) gross: apply at least 30 business days before the move.
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- Pick the exact permit: blanket, book, containerized, special hauling, special vehicle, exceptional or port corridor.
- Each has its own eligibility, duration, route, papers and fees.
Super Load permitOver 150,000 lb
Loads over 150,000 lb gross need a Super Load permit, which goes through engineering review.
- Police and private escorts required; pole car at 14′6″
- Day moves 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; night moves 8 p.m.–6 a.m.
Activate an approved Super LoadDriver name + phone, resubmit
Once SHA approves a Super Load application, open the seed application, enter the driver's name and phone number, and resubmit it for final approval.
1MDOT SHA — Maryland Overdimensional Permit Limitations · checked Oct 13, 2026Apply early for big loads2 / 10 / 30 business days
COMAR sets minimum application lead times before the move:
- Excessive size: at least 2 working days
- Over 60 tons up to 250 tons: 10 business days
- Over 250 tons: 30 business days
Bridge (engineering) reviewRequired over 150,000 lb
For combination vehicles, SHA issues a permit over 150,000 lb only after a valid engineering structural review.
- Over 80,000 up to 120,000 lb: SHA may issue a permit without an engineering structural review
Permit axle limit27,000 lb per axle
SHA may not permit more than 27,000 lb on any one axle unless a COMAR exception applies.
- A combination vehicle using the maximum axle weight exception needs at least 15 axles
- No axle on a combination vehicle may exceed 36,000 lb
Height route surveyOver 14′6″ high
Over 14′6″ high, a height clearance route survey certification is part of the permit application.
- Fax the survey to 800-945-3416 and include the application number
County and city roadsSHA permit doesn't cover them
An SHA permit does not cover city, county or municipal highways and bridges, or railroads, except to cross them at grade after giving sufficient notice.
8Maryland State Highway & Baltimore City — General Conditions for Hauling Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026Baltimore City permit (port)Over 120,000 lb to Dundalk
Loads over 120,000 lb going to the Dundalk Marine Terminal on I-95 must use Exit 59 (Eastern Ave) and need a Baltimore City permit.
- Over 120,000 lb and over 14′6″ high: nighttime only, with a Baltimore City Police escort
Official route and permit tools- Maryland One online permittingApply for SHA hauling permits and Super Loads
- Maryland route restrictions (PDF)Width, height and weight limits by route, updated 9/15/2026
- Hauling Permit Route Survey form (PDF)Over 14′6″ high; must accompany the issued permit
- Intercounty Connector MD 200 (PDF)Toll road conditions for permit loads
- Escort waiting areas (PDF)Maps and restrictions for escorted loads
- Frequently requested numbers (PDF)Baltimore City and DC permit phone numbers
- Maryland State Police barracks (PDF)Barrack phone numbers
- Hauling permit general conditions (PDF)SHA and Baltimore City permit conditions
- CHART traveler informationLane closures, detours and traffic cameras
The rule in full7 official sources
Permit types
Pick the exact permit: blanket, book, containerized, special hauling, special vehicle, exceptional or port corridor. Each has its own eligibility, duration, route, papers and fees.
Superloads
COMAR review for excessive size or weight starts at 16′, 100′ or 120,000 lb. MDOT's superload process for weight starts above 150,000 lb and needs engineering and route approval.
Super Load permit
Loads over 150,000 lb gross need a Super Load permit, which goes through engineering review. Police and private escorts required; pole car at 14′6″. Day moves 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; night moves 8 p.m.–6 a.m.
Activate an approved Super Load
Once SHA approves a Super Load application, open the seed application, enter the driver's name and phone number, and resubmit it for final approval.
Apply early for big loads
COMAR sets minimum application lead times before the move: Excessive size: at least 2 working days. Over 60 tons up to 250 tons: 10 business days. Over 250 tons: 30 business days.
Bridge (engineering) review
For combination vehicles, SHA issues a permit over 150,000 lb only after a valid engineering structural review. Over 80,000 up to 120,000 lb: SHA may issue a permit without an engineering structural review.
Permit axle limit
SHA may not permit more than 27,000 lb on any one axle unless a COMAR exception applies. A combination vehicle using the maximum axle weight exception needs at least 15 axles. No axle on a combination vehicle may exceed 36,000 lb.
Height route survey
Over 14′6″ high, a height clearance route survey certification is part of the permit application. Fax the survey to 800-945-3416 and include the application number.
- 7MDOT SHA — Hauling Permits Checked
County and city roads
An SHA permit does not cover city, county or municipal highways and bridges, or railroads, except to cross them at grade after giving sufficient notice.
Baltimore City permit (port)
Loads over 120,000 lb going to the Dundalk Marine Terminal on I-95 must use Exit 59 (Eastern Ave) and need a Baltimore City permit. Over 120,000 lb and over 14′6″ high: nighttime only, with a Baltimore City Police escort.
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$30- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full1 official source
Example agency fee
$30 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 Maryland. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
Maryland'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?
WidthHeightLengthPositions here aren’t fixed by size alone; the scene shows the load only.May need: Construction-equipment escortMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
Pole carRuns ahead of the load
When a pole vehicle escort is required, it runs ahead of the load far enough to warn the driver of overhead obstructions.
10COMAR 11.04.04.04 — Private Escort — Equipment and Responsibilities · checked Oct 13, 2026Police escort16′ wide · over 75 tons
A police escort is required for loads 16′ wide or more or over 75 tons gross.
- SHA may also require police for 65–75 tons gross, or when traffic must be diverted or stopped
Escort vehicleYellow light · radio · headlights
A private escort vehicle needs:
- At least one oscillating or rotating yellow roof light, 3″ or more across, visible front and rear
- Headlights on, on both the escort and the load
- Two-way radio, for escort drivers and the permit driver
Escort vehicle sign5′ × 12″ · 8″ letters
The escort shows a WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the roof or on the front and rear, at least 5′ wide and 12″ high with 8″ letters.
12COMAR 11.04.04.01 — Signing · checked Oct 13, 2026Where escorts runWithin 300′ of the load
Escort placement:
- One escort: behind on highways with two or more lanes in one direction, in front on highways with one lane each way
- Stay within 300′ of the load, front or rear
Other 2-escort triggersNarrow road · against traffic
Two escorts are also required when the move:
- Uses a road too narrow for other vehicles to pass safely in either direction
- Travels against traffic that must be diverted or stopped
- Meets weather or road conditions that justify two escorts
No convoysNo convoys · own escort per load
Escorted loads may not convoy or group, except State or federal military moves or by special authorization.
- Each load needs its own escort
The rule in full7 official sources
Pole car
When a pole vehicle escort is required, it runs ahead of the load far enough to warn the driver of overhead obstructions.
Police escort
A police escort is required for loads 16′ wide or more or over 75 tons gross. SHA may also require police for 65–75 tons gross, or when traffic must be diverted or stopped.
- 11COMAR 11.04.04.06 — Police Escort Checked
Escort vehicle
A private escort vehicle needs: At least one oscillating or rotating yellow roof light, 3″ or more across, visible front and rear. Headlights on, on both the escort and the load. Two-way radio, for escort drivers and the permit driver.
Escort vehicle sign
The escort shows a WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the roof or on the front and rear, at least 5′ wide and 12″ high with 8″ letters.
- 12COMAR 11.04.04.01 — Signing Checked
Where escorts run
Escort placement: One escort: behind on highways with two or more lanes in one direction, in front on highways with one lane each way. Stay within 300′ of the load, front or rear.
Other 2-escort triggers
Two escorts are also required when the move: Uses a road too narrow for other vehicles to pass safely in either direction. Travels against traffic that must be diverted or stopped. Meets weather or road conditions that justify two escorts.
No convoys
Escorted loads may not convoy or group, except State or federal military moves or by special authorization. Each load needs its own escort.
On any oversize move
Narrow roads, opposing-lane use or traffic diversions can require two private escorts and police. Maryland Transportation Authority may impose a separate escort condition on toll facilities.
Over 12′ wide
If the cargo is construction equipment, width over 12 ft requires a pilot off the Interstate system: ahead on two-lane roads and behind on multi-lane roads. Confirm the commodity and road segment before applying this exception.
Over 13′ wide
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.
14′ wide or more
All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
16′ wide or more
Police assistance is required in addition to private escorts at 16 ft wide or above, or above 150,000 lb gross. SHA determines the police team and cost. All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
14′6″ high or more
A front pole vehicle is required from 14 ft 6 in high. It shares a compatible front position in the plan. All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
Over 14′6″ high
A front pole vehicle is required from 14 ft 6 in high. It shares a compatible front position in the plan. Submit a height-clearance survey certification with the permit application when loaded height exceeds 14 ft 6 in. All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
Over 85′ long
All road types: 1 rear pilot car.
140′ long or more
All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
Up to 13′11″ wide, 14′6″ high, 139′ long and 225,000 lb: 24/7.- 14′ wide or more: 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
- No travel on seven listed holidays; follow the hours on the permit.
Holiday travel banNo permitted travel on New Year's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day. SHA names these without dates; only the fixed-date holidays are dated here.
- Dec ’2625Christmas Day
- Jan ’271New Year's Day
- Jul ’274Independence Day
- Dec ’2725Christmas Day
The rule in full6 official sources
24/7 up to 13′11″ wide; 14′ curfew
MDOT SHA lets loads up to 13′11″ wide, 14′6″ high, 139′ long and 225,000 lb move 24/7. Loads 14′ wide or more move only 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. No permitted travel on New Year's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas. Maryland's regulation still states a narrower daylight window and lets the permit set other hours, so follow the dates and hours printed on the permit.
Current route restrictions
Right before leaving, check the holiday period, the SHA route bulletin, MDTA facility hours or call-in, Baltimore City or other local permits, temporary postings, weather and every permit condition.
Travel hours (SHA web page)
SHA's Overdimensional Permit Limitations page says loads up to 225,000 lb, 13′11″ wide, 14′6″ high and 139′ long may move 24/7. 14′ wide or more: curfew, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. on any highway. Curfew restrictions are noted on your permit. Check toll, bridge and tunnel restrictions before the move.
Travel hours (COMAR regulation)
COMAR 11.04.02.06 allows moves only from ½ hour after sunrise to ½ hour before sunset, and never on Saturday after noon or on Sunday, unless the permit sets other dates and hours. Dates and hours printed on your permit override these defaults.
Weather
The permit is subject to favorable road and weather conditions. The permit is not valid where a snow emergency plan is in effect.
Toll bridges and tunnels
Notify the facility administrator or MDTA Police named on the permit at least 1 hour before moving on or across an MDTA highway, bridge or tunnel. MDTA Police may direct that the load be escorted.
Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895)
No oversize or overweight vehicle, and nothing over 8′ (96″) wide or 13′6″ high, may enter the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel or its approaches.
Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95)
Nothing over 14′6″ high or 11′ wide may enter the Fort McHenry Tunnel or its approaches, unless special written permission is obtained for a load over 11′ wide.
Holiday travel ban
No permitted travel on New Year's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day. SHA names these without dates; only the fixed-date holidays are dated here. Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2026), New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2027), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2027), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2027).
- 07Flags & lamps
Signs, flags and lights
Let traffic passMore than 6 cars behind
If traffic behind the move builds past six cars (escorts included), the whole move must safely leave the road, when there is room, to let traffic pass.
14COMAR 11.04.04.05 — Escorted Vehicles — General Restrictions · checked Oct 13, 2026OVERSIZE LOAD signs10″ letters on 18″ × 7′ yellow
WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD signs on a permit vehicle must meet Maryland's specs, whatever state the truck is from:
- Black letters at least 10″ high with a 1 5/8″ stroke
- Yellow background, 18″ high and 7′ wide
Warning flags18″ red or orange flags
In daylight, permitted loads show red or orange fluorescent warning flags at least 18″ square.
- Over legal width: two flags at the widest points of the vehicle or load
Flags on long loads1 flag if 2′ wide or less
Over legal length or rear overhang, flag the extreme rear:
- One flag if the projecting part is 2′ wide or less
- Two flags, one at each side, if it is wider than 2′
Warning lights at nightAmber front · red rear corners
Permitted loads moving at night show warning lights.
- Uniform-width overwidth loads: amber lights on the front corners, red lights on the rear corners
Spacing between loads½ mile · 1 mile if escorted
Keep ½ mile from another permit load going the same way, and 1 mile between escorted loads.
21COMAR 11.04.02.03 — Safety · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full6 official sources
Signs, flags and spacing
Use the required signs, flags and lamps. Escorts need radios, lights and the right position. Let traffic pass, secure the load, keep spacing and do not run in convoy. Follow route, weather and permit conditions.
Let traffic pass
If traffic behind the move builds past six cars (escorts included), the whole move must safely leave the road, when there is room, to let traffic pass.
OVERSIZE LOAD signs
WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD signs on a permit vehicle must meet Maryland's specs, whatever state the truck is from: Black letters at least 10″ high with a 1 5/8″ stroke. Yellow background, 18″ high and 7′ wide.
- 12COMAR 11.04.04.01 — Signing Checked
Warning flags
In daylight, permitted loads show red or orange fluorescent warning flags at least 18″ square. Over legal width: two flags at the widest points of the vehicle or load.
- 21COMAR 11.04.02.03 — Safety Checked
Flags on long loads
Over legal length or rear overhang, flag the extreme rear: One flag if the projecting part is 2′ wide or less. Two flags, one at each side, if it is wider than 2′.
- 21COMAR 11.04.02.03 — Safety Checked
Warning lights at night
Permitted loads moving at night show warning lights. Uniform-width overwidth loads: amber lights on the front corners, red lights on the rear corners.
- 21COMAR 11.04.02.03 — Safety Checked
Spacing between loads
Keep ½ mile from another permit load going the same way, and 1 mile between escorted loads.
- 21COMAR 11.04.02.03 — Safety Checked
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Carry the permitCarry a permit that can be inspected.
- Route Survey formSHA's Hauling Permit Route Survey form must accompany the issued permit.
- Carry the special hauling permitCarry the original special hauling permit, or a clearly legible approved substitute, in the vehicle.
- Who can get an overweight permitA special hauling permit for an overweight vehicle is issued only if the vehicle: Has five or more axles and is registered for at least the maximum gross weight in its state of registration, or.
Route Survey formMust ride with the permit
SHA's Hauling Permit Route Survey form must accompany the issued permit.
- The surveyor certifies the route was physically driven in the exact lane(s) the load will use
- The form records the height pole setting, rail crossings and work zones
Carry the special hauling permitOriginal or approved copy
Carry the original special hauling permit, or a clearly legible approved substitute, in the vehicle.
- A computer-generated copy counts only if SHA has approved its format
Who can get an overweight permit5+ axles at max registration
A special hauling permit for an overweight vehicle is issued only if the vehicle:
- Has five or more axles and is registered for at least the maximum gross weight in its state of registration, or
- Is special mobile equipment
The rule in full5 official sources
Carry the permit
Carry a permit that can be inspected. Blanket and book permits must be originals. A special-hauling permit can be replaced only by a readable copy the permit type allows.
Route Survey form
SHA's Hauling Permit Route Survey form must accompany the issued permit. The surveyor certifies the route was physically driven in the exact lane(s) the load will use. The form records the height pole setting, rail crossings and work zones.
Carry the special hauling permit
Carry the original special hauling permit, or a clearly legible approved substitute, in the vehicle. A computer-generated copy counts only if SHA has approved its format.
Who can get an overweight permit
A special hauling permit for an overweight vehicle is issued only if the vehicle: Has five or more axles and is registered for at least the maximum gross weight in its state of registration, or. Is special mobile equipment.
- 24COMAR 11.04.01.09 — Denial of Permit Checked
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
Blanket hauling permit75′ L · 12′ W · 14′ H
A blanket hauling permit covers a single oversize vehicle:
- Up to 75′ long, 12′ wide and 14′ high
- Valid for 30 days or 1 year
Blanket permit: weight and paperwork90,000 lb SME · carry original
Under a blanket hauling permit:
- Overweight special mobile equipment: up to 90,000 lb gross, tolerances included, and 27,000 lb on a single axle
- Carry the original permit, not a copy, on the vehicle
Book permits85′ · 13′ · 15′ · 90,000 lb
A book holds ten single-trip permits, for vehicles registered in Maryland or special mobile equipment.
- Up to 85′ long, 13′ wide, 15′ high, 90,000 lb gross and 27,000 lb on a single axle
Using a book permitRoute number before each move
Before each move on a book permit, get SHA's approval of the date and route and a route verification number.
- Carry the original permit, not a copy
- A book is valid for 2 years from issue
Containerized cargo permitPort of Baltimore · 90,000 lb
A 1-year permit for containerized cargo moving to or from the Port of Baltimore.
- Up to 22,400 lb on a single axle, 44,000 lb on two consecutive axles at least 4′ apart, and 90,000 lb gross
Exceptional hauling permit (farm)5 or 6 axles · 50′ spacing
Maryland's exceptional hauling permit is for combinations carrying farm products. Conditions include:
- Five or six axles
- At least 50′ front-to-rear axle spacing
- At least 36′ between two consecutive tandem axle sets
Exceptional permit weights88,000 lb 5-axle · 95,000 lb 6-axle
An exceptional hauling permit allows at most:
- 20,000 lb on a single axle
- 40,000 lb on any tandem axle
- 88,000 lb gross with five axles; 95,000 lb gross with six or more
Exceptional permit: Interstate and papersNo Interstate except fluid milk
An exceptional hauling permit is not valid on the Interstate system, except for vehicles carrying fluid milk products.
- Carry the original or an electronic copy of the permit
Manufactured housing2 escorts at 14′ wide
Manufactured housing units skip the 1-escort step over 13′ wide, but need two escorts at 14′ wide or more.
13COMAR 11.04.04.03 — Private Escort — When Required · checked Oct 13, 2026Self-propelled cranesOver 120,000 lb
A self-propelled crane over 120,000 lb can be permitted without a bridge review for each move, after an initial special bridge analysis.
- The crane configuration needs at least five axles and no axle over 27,000 lb
The rule in full8 official sources
Special permits
Containerized cargo, the heavy-weight port corridor, exceptional hauling, special vehicles and mobile equipment, manufactured housing, farm and construction equipment, emergency response and government moves each have their own eligibility and controls.
Blanket hauling permit
A blanket hauling permit covers a single oversize vehicle: Up to 75′ long, 12′ wide and 14′ high. Valid for 30 days or 1 year.
Blanket permit: weight and paperwork
Under a blanket hauling permit: Overweight special mobile equipment: up to 90,000 lb gross, tolerances included, and 27,000 lb on a single axle. Carry the original permit, not a copy, on the vehicle.
Book permits
A book holds ten single-trip permits, for vehicles registered in Maryland or special mobile equipment. Up to 85′ long, 13′ wide, 15′ high, 90,000 lb gross and 27,000 lb on a single axle.
- 26COMAR 11.04.01.04 — Book Permits Checked
Using a book permit
Before each move on a book permit, get SHA's approval of the date and route and a route verification number. Carry the original permit, not a copy. A book is valid for 2 years from issue.
- 26COMAR 11.04.01.04 — Book Permits Checked
Containerized cargo permit
A 1-year permit for containerized cargo moving to or from the Port of Baltimore. Up to 22,400 lb on a single axle, 44,000 lb on two consecutive axles at least 4′ apart, and 90,000 lb gross.
Exceptional hauling permit (farm)
Maryland's exceptional hauling permit is for combinations carrying farm products. Conditions include: Five or six axles. At least 50′ front-to-rear axle spacing. At least 36′ between two consecutive tandem axle sets.
Exceptional permit weights
An exceptional hauling permit allows at most: 20,000 lb on a single axle. 40,000 lb on any tandem axle. 88,000 lb gross with five axles; 95,000 lb gross with six or more.
Exceptional permit: Interstate and papers
An exceptional hauling permit is not valid on the Interstate system, except for vehicles carrying fluid milk products. Carry the original or an electronic copy of the permit.
Manufactured housing
Manufactured housing units skip the 1-escort step over 13′ wide, but need two escorts at 14′ wide or more.
Self-propelled cranes
A self-propelled crane over 120,000 lb can be permitted without a bridge review for each move, after an initial special bridge analysis. The crane configuration needs at least five axles and no axle over 27,000 lb.
Price your Maryland loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
MD / Permit worksheet
Price your Maryland 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 Maryland 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.
- 01MDOT SHA — Maryland Overdimensional Permit Limitations
Weight; Width; Height; Length; Super Load Permits; Travel Time; Curfew; Truck Signing and Flags; Escort Requirements
Source record: - 02MDOT SHA — Maryland Route Restrictions (updated 9/15/2026)
Interstate rows I-95 Baltimore (Dundalk Marine Terminal)
Source record: - 03
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- 05COMAR 11.04.03.02 — Vehicles Over 45 Tons, Over 60 Tons, Over 250 Tons, or of Excessive Size
§B Applications; §C Safety
Source record: - 06COMAR 11.04.02.01-1 — Miscellaneous Conditions
§G; §J(2)(b)–(d); §J(5)(c)–(d); §K(2)(d)
Source record: - 07
- 08Maryland State Highway & Baltimore City — General Conditions for Hauling Permits
Condition 1 and closing note (Version 1, 06/11/2025)
Source record:
All 30 references
- 09COMAR 11.04.01.08(C) — special hauling permit fees
COMAR 11.04.01.08(C) — special hauling permit fees
Source record: - 10COMAR 11.04.04.04 — Private Escort — Equipment and Responsibilities
§A Communication; §B Lighting; §D Position
Source record: - 11
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- 15Maryland COMAR 11.04.04.02 — escort placement
Maryland COMAR 11.04.04.02 — escort placement
Source record: - 16
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- 18Maryland Transportation Article § 24-204: Temporary Highway Restrictions
Transportation Article § 24-204
Source record: - 19
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- 22MDOT SHA — Maryland State Highway Hauling Permit Route Survey (form)
Certification statement and footer
Source record: - 23
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- 28Maryland Code, Transportation §24-113.2 — Exceptional hauling permit (Maryland General Assembly)
§24–113.2(a)–(c), version in effect (not the Chapter 353 of 2017 contingency text)
Source record: - 2923 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record: - 3023 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: