ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE MS
MississippiOversize & overweight permits.
A Mississippi move needs the right MDOT permit product, load measurements and route. Oversize freight and special weight programs have different 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?
The rule in full9 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.
When a permit is needed
You need a permit over 8′6″ wide, 13′6″ high, 99′ overall or 80,000 lb gross. You also need one with a trailer over 53′, front projection over 3′, or rear overhang of 15′ or more.
Axle and tire limits
Legal axle limits: 20,000 lb single, 34,000 lb tandem and 42,000 lb tridem (per MDOT's portal). Singles and tandems are also limited to 550 lb per inch of tire width. The 500 lb tire-width tolerance cannot push past those maximums. Some programs set other weights and tolerances.
Axle spacing and bridge formula
Other axle groups depend on spacing, road class, tire capacity, posted limits and Table III of section 63-5-33. Table III uses the axle count and the distance between the outer axles. It is the federal bridge formula rounded to the nearest 500 lb.
Width
Legal width is 8′6″ (102 inches); wider needs an oversize permit.
Height
Legal height is 13′6″ (162 inches); taller needs an oversize permit.
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Pilot carsWidth over 10′10′ wide or more at night: a front escort on two-lane roads or a rear escort on divided highways, plus flashing amber lights on the rear of the load.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026What official sources leave open11
Where Mississippi’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- Super Load thresholds conflict. MDOT's Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual dated 1/13/2026 (the newest dated document, used here) says over 17′ wide, 121′ long or 15′7″ high, or 189,999 lb or more. Mississippi Administrative Code Title 37, Part 1, Sub-Part 6301, Rule 900 (no effective date shown in the compiled code PDF on sos.ms.gov, generated Aug. 17, 2026) says over 20′ wide, 120′ long or 17′ high, or 190,000 lb or more. MDOT's Mississippi Manual for Bridge Evaluation (file dated 2026-01-21) says 190,000 lb and over.
- Utility and railroad sign-off: the 2026 Manual requires it over 16′7″ high; Admin Code Rule 901 says over 17′.
- Sundays: Admin Code Rule 403 bars movement on Sunday unless permitted; the 2026 Manual's holiday rule does not mention Sunday.
- Sealed containers: the Manual allows 44,000 lb tandems; Admin Code Rule 600 says 42,000 lb.
- Admin Code Rule 406's urban rush-hour limit applies to loads "in excess of twelve (12) feet" without naming the dimension; the Manual does not repeat it.
- Admin Code Rules 500–503 describe an Oversize Manufactured Housing Blanket Authority (over 14′ up to 16′ wide, 14′ high, 120′ overall, legal weight; books of 50 permits for $500), but the 2026 Manual does not list it.
- The Manual's night-move rule reads "loads not exceeding twelve (12) feet in width, or 150,000 pounds or ninety-nine (99) feet long or height exceeding thirteen (13) feet six (6) inches"; the height clause is unclear, so only the route-dependent height note is used.
- No general flag or lamp rule for rear overhang was found in MDOT's sources (only the Pole Blanket's 16″ red flag), so projection is left empty.
- Axle maximums are not listed in the Manual beyond the Special Heavy Equipment Blanket table; it says Mississippi follows federal axle and spacing law. MDOT's Over-Dimensional Permits web page lists legal axles of 20,000 lb single, 34,000 lb tandem and 42,000 lb tridem.
- No official source found on escort driver certification or reciprocity, or on how high to set the height pole.
- Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving are named without dates.
The rule in full2 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Up to 8′6″ (102″) wide moves without a permit; wider needs one.
Width 10′: Night moves: escort
10′ wide or more at night: a front escort on two-lane roads or a rear escort on divided highways, plus flashing amber lights on the rear of the load.
Width 12′: Signs and rear lights
Over 12′ wide: OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD signs front and rear, and two 5″ flashing amber lights on the rear corners, about 6′ up and visible 500′.
Width 13′: 1 escort
13′ wide or more in daylight: a front escort on two-lane roads, a rear escort on divided highways, plus flashing amber lights on the rear of the load.
Width 17′: Super Load
Over 17′ wide is a Super Load (Permit Manual, 1/13/2026): send load diagrams, a route survey and a traffic control plan.
Width 18′: Police may be required
18′ wide and over: a police (blue-light) escort may be required, depending on route and load.
Height 13′6″: Legal height
Up to 13′6″ high moves without a permit; taller needs a Single Trip – Oversize Permit.
Height 15′7″: Height pole
15′7″ tall or more: a height pole is required.
Height 15′7″: Super Load · route survey
Over 15′7″ high is a Super Load: load diagrams, route survey and traffic control plan with the application.
Height 15′9″: 2 blue-light escorts + pole
15′9″ tall or more: two blue-light (police) escorts plus a height pole escort; MDOT may make exceptions for the route.
Height 16′7″: Utility and railroad sign-off
Over 16′7″ high: written acknowledgement and permission from affected utility and railroad companies.
Length 99′: Legal overall length
Up to 99′ overall moves without a permit, with a trailer up to 53′.
Length 99′: Front and/or rear escort
Over 99′ overall: a permit plus a front and/or rear escort.
Length 120′: Railroad sign-off
Load length over 120′: written acknowledgement and permission from affected railroad companies.
Length 121′: Super Load
Over 121′ overall is a Super Load: load diagrams, route survey and traffic control plan with the application.
Length 160′: 2 blue-light escorts
160′ long or more: two blue-light escorts, one front and one rear.
Overhang 3′ front: Legal front projection
Front projection over 3′ needs a permit; 15′ or more also needs a front and/or rear escort.
Overhang 4′ rear: Night move rear overhang max
Night moves are limited to 4′ of rear overhang.
Overhang 15′: Permit + escort
Rear overhang of 15′ or more needs a permit and a front and/or rear escort.
Weight 80,000 lb: Legal gross
Over 80,000 lb gross needs a Single Trip – Overweight Permit; the fee depends on weight and miles in Mississippi.
Weight 189,999 lb: Super Load
189,999 lb gross or more is a Super Load: axle diagrams, route survey and traffic control plan with the application.
Weight 250,000 lb: Bridge study
250,000 lb or more: a bridge study is required; if ExpressPass can't build a route with its load rating tool, MDOT's Bridge Division runs a full analysis.
Weight 300,000 lb: 2 blue-light escorts
300,000 lb or more: two blue-light escorts; MDOT may make exceptions for the route.
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- A single-trip permit lasts up to three days in a row.
- An annual permit lasts 365 days from issue.
Super Load permit17′ W · 121′ L · 15′7″ H · 189,999 lb
MDOT's Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) defines a Super Load as any vehicle over 17′ wide, 121′ long or 15′7″ high, or 189,999 lb gross or more.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Super Load applicationDiagrams · survey · traffic plan
A Super Load application must include:
- Diagrams with the number, spacing and individual weight of each axle
- A route survey, including pull-off areas where traffic can pass
- A traffic control plan listing every point where the load encroaches into opposing traffic, and how traffic will be stopped if needed
Bridge studies250,000 lb or more
A bridge study is required at 250,000 lb or more, and for lighter loads when a bridge on the route fails to achieve a passing rating.
- ExpressPass notifies you if the permit needs a bridge study or route survey
Roads MDOT doesn't maintainPermit from the road owner
Routes not maintained by MDOT need a permit from each road owner.
2MDOT — Mississippi Manual for Bridge Evaluation (2026-01-21) · checked Oct 13, 2026Single-trip permitsUp to 3 days · $10 oversize
Single-trip permits run up to three consecutive days. Oversize is $10; overweight is priced by weight and miles. ExpressPass routes each load around low-weight roads and low bridges.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full4 official sources
How long permits last
A single-trip permit lasts up to three days in a row. An annual permit lasts 365 days from issue.
Carry the permit
Carry the permit in the truck. Paper, an electronic copy, or the permit number on a phone or tablet is accepted. Some permit types require more.
Permit types
The $25 Single Trip Permit is a temporary registration, not a size or weight permit. Load permits are Single Trip Oversize, Single Trip Overweight, Single Trip Oversize/Overweight, Oversize Blanket and Super Load. Some cargo and equipment can use the special programs below.
One-piece loads
Permits are generally for one-piece loads. A narrow exception can cover manufactured products side by side up to 10′6″ wide, if the product qualifies. It is not a general permit for divisible loads.
Over 80,000 lb
Over 80,000 lb gross does not always mean an overweight permit. First check whether the load qualifies under section 63-5-33(3), has a Harvest Permit, starts at an origin with scales, and uses a route that bans tolerances; also check the axle weights. Without a Harvest Permit, a qualifying load can get 5% tolerance, up to 81,600 lb gross, but none at an origin with scales. With a Harvest Permit, up to 88,000 lb gross. Neither applies on federal Interstates or routes that ban tolerances.
Oversize blanket permits
One piece, up to 14′ wide, 14′ high, 120′ overall and 14′11″ rear overhang. $100 per company per year.
Bridge studies
At 250,000 lb or more, a bridge study is required. If ExpressPass cannot find a route, a full bridge analysis is required.
Single-trip limits
There is no single size limit for every single-trip permit. ExpressPass sets the route, bridge capacity, axle spacing, tire capacity and conditions. If it finds no route or needs a bridge study, a specialist reviews the move.
Local roads
County, city, port, toll and private roads need their owner's permission. An MDOT permit does not cover them.
Super Load permit
MDOT's Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) defines a Super Load as any vehicle over 17′ wide, 121′ long or 15′7″ high, or 189,999 lb gross or more.
Super Load application
A Super Load application must include: Diagrams with the number, spacing and individual weight of each axle. A route survey, including pull-off areas where traffic can pass. A traffic control plan listing every point where the load encroaches into opposing traffic, and how traffic will be stopped if needed.
Bridge studies
A bridge study is required at 250,000 lb or more, and for lighter loads when a bridge on the route fails to achieve a passing rating. ExpressPass notifies you if the permit needs a bridge study or route survey.
Roads MDOT doesn't maintain
Routes not maintained by MDOT need a permit from each road owner.
Single-trip permits
Single-trip permits run up to three consecutive days. Oversize is $10; overweight is priced by weight and miles. ExpressPass routes each load around low-weight roads and low bridges.
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$10- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full2 official sources
Example agency fee
$10 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 Mississippi. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
Mississippi'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: Pilot car for night travelMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
Height pole15′7″ tall or more
Super Loads 15′7″ or taller need a height pole; from 15′9″, a height pole escort runs with two blue-light escorts.
- Permits may also require escorts with a height pole for other loads
Blue-light (police) escorts18′ W · 15′9″ H · 160′ L · 300k lb
Blue-light (police) escorts:
- 18′ wide and over: may be required, depending on route and load
- Super Loads: two at 160′ long (one front, one rear), at 15′9″ tall or at 300,000 lb or more
Escort vehicleAmber light · 2 flags · sign · radio
An escort vehicle needs:
- A flashing or revolving amber light
- Two warning flags
- An OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD sign on top, or on the front of a lead escort and the rear of a following escort
- Two-way communication with the towing vehicle
Road types and bridges2-lane vs divided highway
MDOT's escort rules depend on road type: a two-lane roadway has one lane each way; a divided highway has two or more through lanes each way.
- Escorts may also be required when crossing bridges on the permitted route
The rule in full1 official source
Height pole
Super Loads 15′7″ or taller need a height pole; from 15′9″, a height pole escort runs with two blue-light escorts. Permits may also require escorts with a height pole for other loads.
Blue-light (police) escorts
Blue-light (police) escorts: 18′ wide and over: may be required, depending on route and load. Super Loads: two at 160′ long (one front, one rear), at 15′9″ tall or at 300,000 lb or more.
Escort vehicle
An escort vehicle needs: A flashing or revolving amber light. Two warning flags. An OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD sign on top, or on the front of a lead escort and the rear of a following escort. Two-way communication with the towing vehicle.
Road types and bridges
MDOT's escort rules depend on road type: a two-lane roadway has one lane each way; a divided highway has two or more through lanes each way. Escorts may also be required when crossing bridges on the permitted route.
10′ wide or more
If night movement is authorized, this width requires a front escort on two-lane roads or a rear escort on divided highways, plus rear amber lights.
13′ wide or more
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.
Over 17′ wide
Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.
18′ wide or more
Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car. At 18 ft wide or more, MDOT may require a police escort based on route and load conditions.
Over 15′6″ high
All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
Over 15′7″ high
Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
15′9″ high or more
The superload table calls for two blue-light escorts. Height of 15 ft 9 in or more also requires a height-pole escort. MDOT may approve an exception for the actual route. Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
Over 16′7″ high
The superload table calls for two blue-light escorts. Height of 15 ft 9 in or more also requires a height-pole escort. MDOT may approve an exception for the actual route. Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. Obtain written acknowledgement and permission from affected utilities and railroads for loaded height above 16 ft 7 in. All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
Over 99′ long
The overall length or projection meets Mississippi’s escort trigger. MDOT specifies a front and/or rear escort on the permitted route.
Over 121′ long
Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. The overall length or projection meets Mississippi’s escort trigger. MDOT specifies a front and/or rear escort on the permitted route.
160′ long or more
The superload table calls for two blue-light escorts. Height of 15 ft 9 in or more also requires a height-pole escort. MDOT may approve an exception for the actual route. Submit a surveyed itinerary identifying obstructions, railroad crossings and pull-off areas, together with the required traffic-control plan. The overall length or projection meets Mississippi’s escort trigger. MDOT specifies a front and/or rear escort on the permitted route.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
Up to 12′ wide: sunrise to sunset.- No Sunday travel unless the permit allows it.
- No travel on six major holidays or after noon the day before.
Holiday travel banNo movement after noon the day before, or on, New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas, unless the permit allows it. MDOT does not publish dates for Memorial Day, Labor Day or Thanksgiving.
- Dec ’2624Day before Christmas (after noon)
- Dec ’2625Christmas
- Dec ’2631Day before New Year's Day (after noon)
- Jan ’271New Year's Day
- Jul ’273Day before Fourth of July (after noon)
- Jul ’274Fourth of July
- Dec ’2724Day before Christmas (after noon)
- Dec ’2725Christmas
The rule in full3 official sources
Daylight travel
Loads up to 12′ wide move from sunrise to sunset, as the National Weather Service sets them.
Weekend travel
No Sunday moves unless the permit or a named special program allows it.
Holiday restrictions
Unless the permit allows it, no moves on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth, Labor Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas, or after noon the day before.
Urban rush hours
Rule 406 bars loads ‘in excess of twelve (12) feet’ in Jackson, Memphis/Southaven and the Gulf Coast (not I-10) on weekdays, 7:00–8:30 a.m. and 4:30–5:30 p.m. The rule does not say which dimension the 12 feet measures.
Daylight by width
At 12 feet wide or less, daylight is NWS sunrise to sunset. Over 12 feet wide, daylight is 30 minutes after sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset.
Sundays
No Sunday moves unless the permit or a named special program allows it.
Holiday travel
Unless the permit allows it, travel stops after noon the day before New Year's Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and on those days.
Weather & visibility
Wide loads cannot move in bad weather. Recheck route restrictions, bridge postings and the permit before moving.
Daylight hours
Up to 12′ wide, daylight is sunrise to sunset; over 12′ wide, it is 30 minutes after sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset (National Weather Service times).
Night moves
MDOT may permit night moves for loads not exceeding 12′ wide, 150,000 lb or 99′ long; the maximum height depends on the route, and rear overhang is limited to 4′.
Inclement weather
Overwidth loads may not move in inclement weather: when visibility is under 500′, or pavement, wind or other weather makes travel hazardous.
Urban rush hours
Loads over 12′ must avoid Jackson, Memphis/Southaven and the Gulf Coast (except I-10) from 7–8:30 a.m. and 4:30–5:30 p.m. on weekdays. The rule says "in excess of twelve (12) feet" without naming the dimension.
Posted bridges
Permitted movement is prohibited on all posted bridges; MDOT publishes a posted bridge map.
Holiday travel ban
No movement after noon the day before, or on, New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas, unless the permit allows it. MDOT does not publish dates for Memorial Day, Labor Day or Thanksgiving. Day before Christmas (after noon) (Dec 24, 2026), Christmas (Dec 25, 2026), Day before New Year's Day (after noon) (Dec 31, 2026), New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2027), Day before Fourth of July (after noon) (Jul 3, 2027), Fourth of July (Jul 4, 2027), Day before Christmas (after noon) (Dec 24, 2027), Christmas (Dec 25, 2027).
- 07Flags & lamps
Signs, flags and lights
The rule in full2 official sources
Warning flags
Over 10′ up to 12′ wide: red warning flags on all corners, 6′ above the pavement.
Signs and lights
Over 12′ wide: Oversize or Wide Load signs front and rear, plus two 5-inch flashing amber lights on the rear corners, about 6′ high and visible from 500 feet.
Pilot-car equipment
Escort vehicles need an amber warning light, two warning flags, Oversize or Wide Load signs in the right place, and two-way radio contact with the truck.
Securing the load
Secure and cover the load so nothing spills. Follow FMCSA cargo-securement rules on Mississippi state and Interstate highways.
Manufactured-house markings
A manufactured house 14′ wide or more needs a rear sign, readable from 50 feet, with the mover's name and phone, and the permit holder's if different. The dealer's or transporter's truck also shows a name and phone.
Timber overhang lights
Timber loads with up to 12′ of rear overhang need a rotating or flashing amber light on both rear sides. Each side also needs one 2-by-24-inch red-and-white reflective sheet on the outside of the lowest log, about 6′ from its end. These add to the program's vehicle, permit, insurance and inspection rules.
Warning flags
Over 10′ and up to 12′ wide: warning flags (red, 18″ square) on all corners, 6′ above the pavement.
Rear lights and signs
Over 12′ wide: two 5″ flashing amber lights on the rear corners, about 6′ above the pavement and visible 500′, plus an OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD sign front and rear.
OVERSIZE LOAD sign size
The sign is 84″ × 18″ and reads OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD in 10″ black letters with a 1⅝″ stroke on a yellow or orange background.
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Driver's papersCarry the current registration and the permit or blanket.
- Sealed-container documentsFor sealed containers, carry the permit and the signed international bill of lading, or the bill of lading with the equipment interchange and inspection report.
- Special-permit documentsSpecial-permit papers stay with their vehicle.
- Timber overhang papersTimber loads with 12′ rear overhang carry the registration, Harvest Permit and Oversize Permit.
- USDOT number and insuranceApplicants need a valid USDOT number and a certificate of insurance naming MDOT as certificate holder, for at least $500,000 single-limit liability, updated yearly or when it changes.
- Registration and UCR/IFTA/IRPBefore any permit is issued, be current with UCR, IFTA and IRP, and carry a valid registration in the vehicle.
- Carry the permitCarry a copy of the permit or blanket permit in the vehicle at all times; electronic permits and permit numbers on phones and tablets are accepted.
- Sealed container paperworkCarry the customs-signed international bill of lading, or one with the equipment interchange and inspection report, with the permit.
USDOT number and insuranceUSDOT · $500,000 insurance
Applicants need a valid USDOT number and a certificate of insurance naming MDOT as certificate holder, for at least $500,000 single-limit liability, updated yearly or when it changes.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Registration and UCR/IFTA/IRPCurrent UCR · IFTA · IRP
Before any permit is issued, be current with UCR, IFTA and IRP, and carry a valid registration in the vehicle.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Carry the permitPaper, electronic or permit #
Carry a copy of the permit or blanket permit in the vehicle at all times; electronic permits and permit numbers on phones and tablets are accepted.
- A Single Trip – Oversize permit not displayed on request counts as no permit
Sealed container paperworkBill of lading · 95,000 lb GVWR
Carry the customs-signed international bill of lading, or one with the equipment interchange and inspection report, with the permit. The vehicle's GVWR must be at least 95,000 lb.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full2 official sources
Driver's papers
Carry the current registration and the permit or blanket. Show the permit on request: on paper, electronically, or as the permit number on a phone or tablet. ExpressPass also needs a valid USDOT number, a liability certificate of at least $500,000 naming MDOT, and current UCR, IFTA and IRP.
Sealed-container documents
For sealed containers, carry the permit and the signed international bill of lading, or the bill of lading with the equipment interchange and inspection report. Under a blanket, also carry the vehicle's blanket and the trip routing permit.
Special-permit documents
Special-permit papers stay with their vehicle. Harvest and Special Interstate Agriculture papers belong to one vehicle. A 57′ box-van driver must show its permit. Special Heavy Equipment needs both its blanket and the routing permit. Where a permit asks for a specific document, an electronic copy is not enough.
Timber overhang papers
Timber loads with 12′ rear overhang carry the registration, Harvest Permit and Oversize Permit. Under the Rule 1503 insurance-certificate option, keep the certificate or a copy, and copies of every replacement or change, in the cab. Without current proof, all permits are void and the load stops until proof is shown.
USDOT number and insurance
Applicants need a valid USDOT number and a certificate of insurance naming MDOT as certificate holder, for at least $500,000 single-limit liability, updated yearly or when it changes.
Registration and UCR/IFTA/IRP
Before any permit is issued, be current with UCR, IFTA and IRP, and carry a valid registration in the vehicle.
Carry the permit
Carry a copy of the permit or blanket permit in the vehicle at all times; electronic permits and permit numbers on phones and tablets are accepted. A Single Trip – Oversize permit not displayed on request counts as no permit.
Sealed container paperwork
Carry the customs-signed international bill of lading, or one with the equipment interchange and inspection report, with the permit. The vehicle's GVWR must be at least 95,000 lb.
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
Side-by-side productsUp to 10½′ wide
Products placed side by side that barely exceed legal width, such as concrete pipe, rolled hay or shipping pallets, can be permitted up to 10½′ wide.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Oversize Blanket Permit14′ W · 14′ H · 120′ L
A $100-a-year company blanket for one-piece loads up to 14′ wide, 14′ high and 120′ long, with up to 14′11″ of rear overhang.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Special Heavy Equipment Blanket150,000 lb · 12′ W · 24/7
The Special Heavy Equipment Blanket allows 24/7 moves for loads up to 150,000 lb, 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 99′ long.
- Over 12′ up to 14′ wide: daylight moves only
Heavy equipment blanket: rules$4,500 · vehicle-specific
The Special Heavy Equipment Blanket costs $4,500, is nonrefundable and vehicle-specific.
- Get a secondary routing permit before every move and carry it with the blanket
Manufactured housingSign on 14′+ wide homes
A manufactured house 14′ wide or more carries a rear sign, legible at 50′, with the mover's name and phone (and the permit holder's if different); each dealer or transporter truck shows a name and phone too.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Pole Blanket Permit120′ L · 40′ overhang · $200/mo
For poles and long timber on State Maintained Highways: $200 a month per fleet; legal 13′6″ height; 80,000 lb, or up to 88,000 lb with a Harvest Permit; up to 120′ overall with 40′ of overhang.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026Pole blanket: escort and markings1 rear escort · 2-truck convoy
Under the Pole Blanket Permit:
- One rear escort, with no more than two trucks in convoy
- A red flag or cloth at least 16″ square at the extreme rear of the load
- An amber strobe or LED light near the end of the load
- Not valid for travel on Interstate highways
Sealed containers95,000 lb · 44,000 lb tandem
Sealed containers moving to or from a port can be permitted up to 95,000 lb gross with 44,000 lb tandems, and move 24/7 on State Maintained Highways.
1MDOT — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full4 official sources
Manufactured-housing blanket
Covers nondivisible manufactured housing over 14′ up to 16′ wide, up to 14′ high and 120′ overall, at legal weight. The blanket is free, but you buy a book of 50 numbered permits for $500. Fill in an original for each trip, keep it in the truck, and return used books.
Self-issued 24/7 permits (CMSI)
Under Rules 700–709, a $500-per-year agreement lets a company self-issue 24/7 permits for approved sealed-container cargo or equipment, up to 95,000 lb gross at legal size. Fill in the numbered form before moving, fax it to the Permit Office, and give the driver a copy. No fax or no copy counts as no permit. Confirm the program is still open before relying on it.
Harvest permits
Under section 63-5-33(3), listed loads can carry up to 40,000 lb on a tandem, with or without a Harvest Permit. Without a Harvest Permit, they can go 5% over the authorized gross, tandem or axle weight. That stops at 81,600 lb gross, with no gross tolerance at an origin with scales. With a Harvest Permit: up to 10% over, capped at 88,000 lb gross. It covers trips from loading to processing for sand, gravel, woodchips, wood shavings, sawdust, fill dirt, farm products, recycling materials and highway construction or repair materials. Trips are generally within 100 miles, unless the products go for processing in Mississippi. No extra weight on federal Interstates or routes that ban tolerances. The county and city notice process in subsection (5) is repealed from July 1, 2028.
Interstate agricultural permits
$25 per vehicle per year for Interstate travel with unprocessed food, feed or fiber crops and unfinished forestry products. A Harvest Permit is also required. Maximum: 88,000 lb or 10% over the authorized gross. Size must be legal, travel is daylight only, and gravel, sand, fill dirt, asphalt and similar materials do not qualify.
57-foot box vans
$100 per carrier per year lets an otherwise legal 57′ box van run 24/7 on approved routes. Kingpin to the center of the rear axles: 41′ at most. The set rear guard is required, and the driver shows the permit on request.
Dirt-pan combinations
Needs a 72-hour road-use permit and an oversize permit. Daylight only, in convoys of up to three units, with front and rear escorts, amber lights, radio contact and signs on units and escorts. Use four-lane roads where possible and pull off regularly. Oversize costs $10 per vehicle or load; overweight is priced by weight and miles.
Overlength blanket
$100 per permit holder per year. The truck and trailer can be up to 99′ long, at legal width and height, with no extra overhang.
Forestry equipment
$200 per truck per year for one piece of timber equipment. Limits: 100,000 lb gross, 14′ wide, 14′ high, 44,000 lb tandem and 50,000 lb triaxle. Above any limit, get a Single Trip Oversize/Overweight Permit. Paper or electronic copies are accepted.
Pole blanket permits
$200 per fleet for one month, on set state routes, generally not Interstates. Limits: legal height, 120′ overall, 40′ overhang, 9′6″ load width, and 80,000 lb gross (88,000 with a Harvest Permit). You need a rear escort, a 16-inch red flag and an amber light at the rear. No low-weight routes, no bad weather, and pavement at least 20′ wide.
Hay blanket permits
$100 per vehicle per year on state and Interstate highways, daylight only. Limits: 14′ high, a 53′ trailer and 10′6″ wide, with wide-load signs and federal securement.
Heavy-equipment blanket
The $4,500 nonrefundable fee covers extra weight. A separate wide-only blanket up to 14′ costs $100 a year. Each vehicle can move 24/7 up to 150,000 lb, 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 99′ long. Over 12′ up to 14′ wide: daylight only, Monday–Saturday. Get a routing permit before every move and carry it with the blanket.
Write-your-own permits
Under Rules 1400–1402, a $200 book of numbered permits. Fill in and fax each form before moving. Each lasts three work days in a row and allows daylight travel Monday–Saturday, never Sunday. Motor cranes and off-road self-powered equipment need a certified scale ticket with each axle spacing, each axle weight and the date. Confirm the program is still open before relying on it.
Timber rear overhang
Timber can overhang up to 12′ past the rear trailer lights, from two hours before sunrise to two hours after sunset. Carry the registration, a Harvest Permit and an Oversize Permit. Blanket vehicles must pass an inspection before the permit is issued. Both rear sides need amber lights and one 2-by-24-inch red-and-white reflective sheet outside the lowest log. Under the insurance-certificate option, keep the certificate and every change in the cab; without current proof, all permits are void. The fee is $100 a year or $10 a trip; the trip option needs no inspection.
Military & emergency moves
A U.S. military unit can apply for a free Military and Emergency Response permit with a set route. Other extraordinary moves need MDOT's special approval, for good cause. Calling a shipment an emergency does not authorize it.
Side-by-side products
Products placed side by side that barely exceed legal width, such as concrete pipe, rolled hay or shipping pallets, can be permitted up to 10½′ wide.
Oversize Blanket Permit
A $100-a-year company blanket for one-piece loads up to 14′ wide, 14′ high and 120′ long, with up to 14′11″ of rear overhang.
Special Heavy Equipment Blanket
The Special Heavy Equipment Blanket allows 24/7 moves for loads up to 150,000 lb, 12′ wide, 13′6″ high and 99′ long. Over 12′ up to 14′ wide: daylight moves only.
Heavy equipment blanket: rules
The Special Heavy Equipment Blanket costs $4,500, is nonrefundable and vehicle-specific. Get a secondary routing permit before every move and carry it with the blanket.
Manufactured housing
A manufactured house 14′ wide or more carries a rear sign, legible at 50′, with the mover's name and phone (and the permit holder's if different); each dealer or transporter truck shows a name and phone too.
Pole Blanket Permit
For poles and long timber on State Maintained Highways: $200 a month per fleet; legal 13′6″ height; 80,000 lb, or up to 88,000 lb with a Harvest Permit; up to 120′ overall with 40′ of overhang.
Pole blanket: escort and markings
Under the Pole Blanket Permit: One rear escort, with no more than two trucks in convoy. A red flag or cloth at least 16″ square at the extreme rear of the load. An amber strobe or LED light near the end of the load. Not valid for travel on Interstate highways.
Sealed containers
Sealed containers moving to or from a port can be permitted up to 95,000 lb gross with 44,000 lb tandems, and move 24/7 on State Maintained Highways.
Price your Mississippi loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
MS / Permit worksheet
Price your Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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
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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 — Permit & Motor Carrier Division Manual (1/13/2026)
Definitions 2–4, 9, 15, 18, 21; General Permit Regulations 1, 2, 6, 8–18; General Carrier Operation Requirements 1–7; General Safety Requirements 1, 5–7; Permit Types (Single Trip – Oversize/Overweight, Oversize Blanket, Super Load, Sealed Container, Pole Blanket, Special Heavy Equipment Blanket)
Source record: - 02MDOT — Mississippi Manual for Bridge Evaluation (2026-01-21)
Chapter 4, §4.2 Oversize and Overweight Vehicle Permits; §4.2.2.1 Bridge Studies
Source record: - 03House Bill 150, 2025 Regular Session, final act text
Miss. Code section 63-5-27(1)-(2), as amended by HB 150 · Page 1
Source record: - 04
- 05
- 06House Bill 953, 2025 Regular Session, final act text
Miss. Code section 63-5-33(1), Table III · Page 1
Source record: - 07
- 08Mississippi Code 27-19-81, enacted SB2559 — excess-weight fee
Mississippi Code 27-19-81, enacted SB2559 — excess-weight fee
Source record:
All 12 references
- 09
- 10Mississippi Administrative Code, Title 37, Part 1, Sub-Part 6301 (Permit & Motor Carrier Division), Chapter 01001
Sub-Part 6301, Chapter 01001, Rule 406 (compiled code PDF generated Aug. 17, 2026)
Source record: - 1123 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record: - 1223 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: