ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE NM
New MexicoOversize & overweight permits.
New Mexico overweight pricing can depend on gross weight, axle count and miles. Tall or long loads also need attention to survey, escort and 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- No one wheel may carry more than 11,000 lb, and no tire more than 600 lb per inch of tire width.
- Groups of two or more axles follow the 66-7-410 table by distance between the first and last axles: 34,320 lb at 4′ up to 45,240 lb at 18′.
The rule in full4 official sources
General width: 8′6″
Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; safety-device, vehicle and load exceptions may apply.
Loaded height: 14′
Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; listed exceptions and actual route clearances apply.
NN semitrailer: 57′6″
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 14′ high, with 3′ front and 7′ rear overhang. Length and weight depend on the setup, axles, spacing, tires, bridges, route and exceptions.
Width
Legal width is 8′6″.
Height
Legal height is 14′.
Axle limits: legal and with a permit
Legal: single 21,600 lb, group, 4′ between first and last axles 34,320 lb. With a permit: . No one wheel may carry more than 11,000 lb, and no tire more than 600 lb per inch of tire width. Groups of two or more axles follow the 66-7-410 table by distance between the first and last axles: 34,320 lb at 4′ up to 45,240 lb at 18′.
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Pilot carsWidth over 13′6″NMDOT's escort map requires an escort from 13′6″ wide on Group A roads and from 12′ wide on Group B roads ("on Delivery or Pickup Only"). Marked cities require an escort off the Interstate routes.
What official sources leave open13
Where New Mexico’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- 18.19.8 NMAC publishes no maximum dimensions for single-trip permits. Caps are published only for multiple-trip permits (14′ W, 15′ H, 120′ L, 140,000 lb), oilfield multi-trip (22′ W, 20′ H, 110′ L), wrecker multi-trip (12′ W, 14′ H) and continuous movement.
- No height-pole rule is stated. Over 16′, the permit may require an escort or second person to check each overhead clearance.
- No escort-driver training course or reciprocity rule is stated. Drivers must be licensed under their home jurisdiction's escort-driver rules, and escort vehicles must be NM-certified (NMDOT or DPS) before entry.
- Overhang flags differ by source: statute 66-3-824 calls for a red flag or cloth at least 12″ square on a load 4′ or more past the rear, while 18.19.8.33 NMAC requires 18″ flags on each corner of a permitted load's overhang (front 3′+ single vehicle, 2′+ combination; rear 4′+).
- 18.19.8.37 NMAC caps combinations at 65′ including overhangs except by permit, while statute 66-7-404(D) lets tractor-semitrailers on the Interstate and designated highways exceed 65′ with a semitrailer up to 57′6″.
- Weekend travel is not restricted in the rule; holidays and inclement weather are.
- Holiday dates for Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving are not published, so they are not listed.
- New Mexico's statute table runs to 86,400 lb gross; the NM sources do not say how that applies on the Interstate, where 23 CFR 658.17 caps gross weight at 80,000 lb.
- NM statute sets 21,600 lb per single axle and 34,320 lb for a 4′ axle group (66-7-409, 66-7-410), above the 20,000 lb single and 34,000 lb tandem in 23 CFR 658.17; the NM sources reviewed do not say whether these state figures apply on the Interstate under the federal grandfather clause.
- 18.19.8 NMAC publishes no permit axle-weight maximums. NMDOT's Loading Chart (linked from NM-OPS) gives axle loadings by configuration only as an image, so its values are not transcribed here.
- Heavy-load contacts differ: 18.19.8.40 NMAC requires an engineering analysis over 170,000 lb; NMDOT's Ports of Entry page refers "SuperLoads 200 k and above" to the Bridge Section (505-795-4317); and NM-OPS lists four Bridge Office contacts for help with loads of 170K or heavier or self-propelled loads.
- 18.19.8.20 NMAC still lists https://permits.dot.state.nm.us for applications; NMDOT's current permit system is NM-OPS at truckpermits.dot.nm.gov.
- The escort map is a PDF with no title or date on its face (file metadata: created 2013, modified 2018) on the document host NMDOT also uses for www.dot.nm.gov files (api.realfile.rtsclients.com). It is linked as "Escort Map" from NMDOT's NM-OPS page; a search of www.dot.nm.gov found no page linking it. NMDOT's 2012 Bridge Map shows the same legend and adds: "Private escorts or police escorts may be required on other routes at the Department's discretion." The Group B wording "on Delivery or Pickup Only" is not explained.
The rule in full3 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Up to 8′6″ wide moves without a permit; wider needs one.
Width 13′6″: Escort on mapped roads
NMDOT's escort map requires an escort from 13′6″ wide on Group A roads and from 12′ wide on Group B roads ("on Delivery or Pickup Only"). Marked cities require an escort off the Interstate routes.
Width 14′: Escorts required
At 14′ wide or more, escort vehicles are required. Below 14′ they may be required, depending on the route and the widths set for certain highways on NMDOT's escort map.
Width 20′: Flaggers · police possible
At 20′ wide or more, flaggers are required and NMDOT may require police escorts.
Height 14′: Legal height
Up to 14′ high moves without a permit; taller needs one.
Height 15′6″: Route survey
At 15′6″ high or more, a route survey of signals, wires, utility lines, bridges and overpasses is required.
Height 16′: Clearance checker
Over 16′ high, NMDOT may require an escort or a second person to check each overhead clearance before the load passes under it; the permit will say so.
Height 18′: Utility sign-off
Over 18′ high, you need written certification from the utility companies. Only the utility owner may move or lift an overhead wire.
Length 40′: Legal single vehicle
A single vehicle, overhangs included, may be up to 40′ long without a permit.
Length 57′6″: Legal semitrailer
On the Interstate and other designated highways, a tractor-semitrailer may exceed 65′ overall if the semitrailer is no longer than 57′6″.
Length 65′: Legal combination
Under the permit rule, a combination including front and rear overhang may be up to 65′ long without a special permit.
Length 110′1″: 1 escort
Over 110′1″ through 120′1″ long: 1 escort.
Length 120′1″: 2 escorts
Over 120′1″ long: 2 escorts.
Overhang 3′ front: Legal front overhang
A load sticking out more than 3′ past the front needs a permit, even if overall length is legal.
Overhang 7′ rear: Legal rear overhang
A load sticking out more than 7′ past the rear needs a permit, even if overall length is legal.
Overhang 4′ rear: Overhang flags
Rear overhang of 4′ or more: flag each corner of the overhang's end (one flag if under 2′ wide). On a single vehicle, front overhang of 3′ or more is flagged the same way.
Weight 80,000 lb: Interstate gross cap
Federal rules cap gross weight at 80,000 lb on the Interstate, or less where the bridge formula says so.
Weight 86,400 lb: Top of state weight table
New Mexico's gross weight table tops out at 86,400 lb with 56′ or more between the first and last axles.
Weight 140,000 lb: Multi-trip weight cap
Multiple-trip permits go up to 140,000 lb, if the vehicle has the proper number of axles and axle spacing to carry the weight.
Weight 170,000 lb: Engineering analysis
Over 170,000 lb gross, no permit is issued until an engineering analysis of the route is done and NMDOT approves the move.
Weight 200,000 lb: Superload · Bridge Section
NMDOT's Ports of Entry page refers questions about SuperLoads of 200,000 lb and above to the NMDOT Bridge Section, 505-795-4317.
- 4NMDOT — Ports of Entry Checked
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- NMDOT and Ports of Entry permits cover only the State route on the permit.
- Cities, tribal and federal roads, private facilities and neighboring states need their own approval.
Engineering analysisOver 170,000 lb
Over 170,000 lb gross, NMDOT needs an engineering analysis of the route. The data it requires from you includes:
- Tire sizes
- Axle loads and axle spacings
- The route you want
- Clearance documents if the load is also overheight or overwide
Superloads200,000 lb+: 505-795-4317
For information on superloads of 200,000 lb and above, or other overweight matters, NMDOT's Ports of Entry page lists the NMDOT Bridge Section: 505-795-4317.
4NMDOT — Ports of Entry · checked Oct 13, 2026Route survey15′6″ high or more
A route survey is required at 15′6″ high or more, and NMDOT may require one for other loads.
- Valid for 14 days
- Carry it in the truck at all times during the move
Single-trip permitOne-way · 5 days
A single-trip permit covers one one-way move and is valid for five days.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Multiple-trip permit14′ W · 15′ H · 120′ L
Valid up to one year in an area of four contiguous counties and three interstates, for loads up to:
- 14′ wide, 15′ high, 120′ long
- Front overhang up to 15′, rear up to 25′
Overlength loads NMDOT refusesPipe >80′ · booms >40′
Overlength permits are denied for welded pipe over 80′ and for bolted or pinned crane or tower booms over 40′.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Local streetsCity permission may be needed
The permit covers only the highways it names. Local streets may need permission from the local authority.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Official route and permit tools- NM-OPS permit systemBuy OS/OW permits online before entering New Mexico
- 18.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and LoadsFull permit, escort and travel rules
- NMDOT escort mapRoads where escorts are required below 14′ wide (linked from NM-OPS)
- NMDOT bridge weight limit mapPosted bridges and vertical clearances; NMDOT 2012 map, linked from NM-OPS
- NMDOT loading chartBridge Management Section axle loading chart (image PDF), linked from NM-OPS
- NMDOT Ports of EntryPort contacts, permit office 505-476-2475, superload line
The rule in full2 official sources
The permit authority
NMDOT and Ports of Entry permits cover only the State route on the permit. Cities, tribal and federal roads, private facilities and neighboring states need their own approval.
Permits
Get the nondivisible-load permit before entering New Mexico and use only its route. A single trip is one-way within five days; multiple-trip permits can last up to a year. Carry a readable paper or electronic permit with its attachments.
24/7 limits and larger loads
24/7 travel goes up to 10′ wide, 14′6″ high, 120′ long and 140,000 lb, only when printed on the permit. At 15′6″ high or over 170,000 lb gross, a survey or engineering review applies.
Engineering analysis
Over 170,000 lb gross, NMDOT needs an engineering analysis of the route. The data it requires from you includes: Tire sizes. Axle loads and axle spacings. The route you want. Clearance documents if the load is also overheight or overwide.
Superloads
For information on superloads of 200,000 lb and above, or other overweight matters, NMDOT's Ports of Entry page lists the NMDOT Bridge Section: 505-795-4317.
- 4NMDOT — Ports of Entry Checked
Route survey
A route survey is required at 15′6″ high or more, and NMDOT may require one for other loads. Valid for 14 days. Carry it in the truck at all times during the move.
Single-trip permit
A single-trip permit covers one one-way move and is valid for five days.
Multiple-trip permit
Valid up to one year in an area of four contiguous counties and three interstates, for loads up to: 14′ wide, 15′ high, 120′ long. Front overhang up to 15′, rear up to 25′.
Overlength loads NMDOT refuses
Overlength permits are denied for welded pipe over 80′ and for bolted or pinned crane or tower booms over 40′.
Local streets
The permit covers only the highways it names. Local streets may need permission from the local authority.
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$25- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full3 official sources
Example agency fee
$25 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 New Mexico. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
New Mexico'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 on designated roadsMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
Police escorts20′ wide or more, if NMDOT says
NMDOT may require police escorts for loads 20′ wide or more, on certain roads, or for moves that may require counter-flow.
- NMDOT may coordinate the police escort and charge a fee
Police escort through a cityArrange with the city first
If a route that needs a police escort passes through a city, you must get the city's permission and make arrangements with it for the move. NMDOT won't issue the permit until it is assured those arrangements are satisfactory.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Flaggers20′ wide or more
Flaggers are required at 20′ wide or more, or when the permit says. They don't replace escort vehicles.
- Orange or red safety jacket and orange or red hard hat or bump cap
NM-certified escort vehiclesCertified before entry
Only escort vehicles certified by NMDOT or DPS may work in New Mexico, and a required escort must be certified before entering the state. Certification is issued for one year or until the insurance expires.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Escort not yet certifiedStop outside NM; certify at a port
If an escort isn't certified before entry, the escort and the load stop outside the state, and the escort drives to the nearest port of entry to be checked and certified.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Escort lights, sign and flagsAmber lights · sign · flags
Each escort vehicle needs:
- Two amber lights on top (rotating, flashing, strobe or LED), visible at least 500′ in normal sunlight
- Bright yellow OVERSIZE LOAD sign at least 5′ × 12″ with black letters
- Two red or fluorescent orange flags when escorting a load
Escort vehicle gearRadio · extinguisher · escort map
Each escort vehicle also needs:
- Two-way radio for direct contact with the escorted load
- Fire extinguisher
- Flares and other warning devices
- Flagger equipment
- NMDOT's escort vehicle map, carried at all times
Escort driver18+ · license · certification
Escort drivers must be at least 18 and licensed under the escort-driver rules where they live. During the move, carry a current driver's license, the NM escort vehicle certification and an escort vehicle map.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Where escorts ride1: rear multi-lane, front 2-lane
A single escort runs behind the load on multi-lane highways and in front on two-lane highways.
- Usual gap 300′–1,000′; shorter in cities and at narrow bridges
No shared escorts1 escort = 1 load
Each load needs its own dedicated escort; an escort may not escort more than one load at a time.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full1 official source
Police escorts
NMDOT may require police escorts for loads 20′ wide or more, on certain roads, or for moves that may require counter-flow. NMDOT may coordinate the police escort and charge a fee.
Police escort through a city
If a route that needs a police escort passes through a city, you must get the city's permission and make arrangements with it for the move. NMDOT won't issue the permit until it is assured those arrangements are satisfactory.
Flaggers
Flaggers are required at 20′ wide or more, or when the permit says. They don't replace escort vehicles. Orange or red safety jacket and orange or red hard hat or bump cap.
NM-certified escort vehicles
Only escort vehicles certified by NMDOT or DPS may work in New Mexico, and a required escort must be certified before entering the state. Certification is issued for one year or until the insurance expires.
Escort not yet certified
If an escort isn't certified before entry, the escort and the load stop outside the state, and the escort drives to the nearest port of entry to be checked and certified.
Escort lights, sign and flags
Each escort vehicle needs: Two amber lights on top (rotating, flashing, strobe or LED), visible at least 500′ in normal sunlight. Bright yellow OVERSIZE LOAD sign at least 5′ × 12″ with black letters. Two red or fluorescent orange flags when escorting a load.
Escort vehicle gear
Each escort vehicle also needs: Two-way radio for direct contact with the escorted load. Fire extinguisher. Flares and other warning devices. Flagger equipment. NMDOT's escort vehicle map, carried at all times.
Escort driver
Escort drivers must be at least 18 and licensed under the escort-driver rules where they live. During the move, carry a current driver's license, the NM escort vehicle certification and an escort vehicle map.
Where escorts ride
A single escort runs behind the load on multi-lane highways and in front on two-lane highways. Usual gap 300′–1,000′; shorter in cities and at narrow bridges.
No shared escorts
Each load needs its own dedicated escort; an escort may not escort more than one load at a time.
Over 8′6″ wide
Below 14 ft wide, NMDOT’s escort map can still require a pilot car on particular roads. Check the assigned itinerary against that map.
14′ wide or more
Pilot escort service is required at 14 ft wide and above. NMDOT’s route map and issued permit specify positions and any additional vehicles. Compatible width and length assignments share vehicles.
20′ wide or more
Pilot escort service is required at 14 ft wide and above. NMDOT’s route map and issued permit specify positions and any additional vehicles. Compatible width and length assignments share vehicles. At 20 ft wide or above, flaggers are required in addition to the assigned escort service; a dismounted escort driver may perform this duty when needed. NMDOT may require police escorts at 20 ft wide or above. Road conditions, counter-flow or traffic hazards may trigger police assistance at smaller dimensions.
15′6″ high or more
At 15 ft 6 in high or above, a route survey must check overhead structures, wires, utilities, bridges and overpasses.
Over 16′ high
At 15 ft 6 in high or above, a route survey must check overhead structures, wires, utilities, bridges and overpasses. Above 16 ft high, the permit may require an escort or a person other than the driver to verify each overhead clearance before the load passes.
Over 18′ high
At 15 ft 6 in high or above, a route survey must check overhead structures, wires, utilities, bridges and overpasses. Above 18 ft high, obtain written certification from utility companies. Only the utility owner may move or lift an overhead wire. Above 16 ft high, the permit may require an escort or a person other than the driver to verify each overhead clearance before the load passes.
110′2″ long or more
One pilot car is required for overall length above 110 ft 1 in through 120 ft 1 in. NMDOT’s route map and issued permit specify positions and any additional vehicles. Compatible width and length assignments share vehicles.
120′2″ long or more
Two pilot cars are required for overall length above 120 ft 1 in. NMDOT’s route map and issued permit specify positions and any additional vehicles. Compatible width and length assignments share vehicles.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, unless the permit allows more.- No holidays or inclement weather.
Holiday banNo permit moves from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day or any other holiday NMDOT designates. The rule names Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving without dates, so only the fixed-date holidays are listed.
- Dec ’2625Christmas Day
- Jan ’271New Year's Day
- Jul ’274Independence Day
- Dec ’2725Christmas Day
The rule in full1 official source
Daylight travel
Unless the permit allows it, no moves from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, in bad weather or on holidays. 24/7 travel depends on size and weight limits printed on the permit.
24/7 travel
By default, moves stop from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. 24/7 travel applies only when the permit says so; the trip's length or the load's size alone does not allow it.
Check before you move
Before dispatch, check holidays, weather, weekday rush hours in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and other cities, route restrictions and every permit limit.
Daylight moves
Unless the permit allows continuous movement, no moves from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise, and none in inclement weather or on holidays. NMDOT may grant an exception.
Continuous (24/7) movement
A permit allows round-the-clock moves only if it says so, and only for loads within these limits: 10′ wide, 14′6″ high, 120′ long, 140,000 lb. No moves on holidays or in inclement weather.
Santa Fe and Las Cruces rush hours
Unless the permit says otherwise, no weekday moves from 7 to 9 a.m. or 4 to 6 p.m. on Interstate, US and state roads inside Santa Fe and Las Cruces city limits.
Los Lunas and Española corridors
The same weekday 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m. ban applies on: I-25 between Santa Fe and Los Lunas, and inside Los Lunas. US 285 between Santa Fe and Española, and inside Española.
Las Cruces Interstate segments
Unless the permit says otherwise, no weekday moves from 7 to 9 a.m. or 4 to 6 p.m. on I-10 from mile marker 139 to 145 and I-25 from mile marker 0 to 9 in the Las Cruces area.
Albuquerque and Rio Rancho rush hours
Unless the permit says otherwise, no weekday moves from 7 to 9 a.m. or 4 to 7 p.m. on Interstate, US and state roads inside Albuquerque and Rio Rancho city limits.
Holiday ban
No permit moves from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day or any other holiday NMDOT designates. The rule names Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving without dates, so only the fixed-date holidays are listed. 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
Overhead clearancesOver 14′: check clearances
Above 14′ and below 15′6″ high, the applicant must check the route for overhead clearance. A load that won't clear wires, bridges, overpasses or other overhead structures must be rerouted.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Lights for continuous movementAmber: 1 at rear, 2 on power unit
Continuous-movement loads use 49 CFR 393.11 lighting. An overwidth or overlength load also needs at least one amber light at the rear and two on the power unit.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026One permit load per bridgeNo two permit loads on a bridge
Two or more permitted loads may not be on a bridge or other structure at the same time.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026OVERSIZE signs5′ × 12″ · 10″ black on yellow
Signs reading OVERSIZE, OVERWIDTH, OVERLENGTH or OVERHEIGHT go on the front and rear: at least 5′ wide by 12″ high, bright yellow with black letters at least 10″ high and 1″ wide.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Flags on the load18″ red or fluorescent flags
Oversize loads must be flagged at all times with red, fluorescent red or fluorescent orange flags, square or rectangular, at least 18″ on every side.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full2 official sources
Signs, flags and surveys
Use the required red flags, OVERSIZE signs front and rear, escort equipment, securement and clearance checks. At 15′6″ high, complete a route survey and carry it; utility coordination may also apply.
Overhead clearances
Above 14′ and below 15′6″ high, the applicant must check the route for overhead clearance. A load that won't clear wires, bridges, overpasses or other overhead structures must be rerouted.
Lights for continuous movement
Continuous-movement loads use 49 CFR 393.11 lighting. An overwidth or overlength load also needs at least one amber light at the rear and two on the power unit.
One permit load per bridge
Two or more permitted loads may not be on a bridge or other structure at the same time.
OVERSIZE signs
Signs reading OVERSIZE, OVERWIDTH, OVERLENGTH or OVERHEIGHT go on the front and rear: at least 5′ wide by 12″ high, bright yellow with black letters at least 10″ high and 1″ wide.
Flags on the load
Oversize loads must be flagged at all times with red, fluorescent red or fluorescent orange flags, square or rectangular, at least 18″ on every side.
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Driver's papersCarry a readable paper or electronic permit with its route, surveys, bridge maps, restricted structures and other attachments, and show it on request.
- Permit before entryOS/OW permits must be bought online before entering New Mexico and be in hand.
- Carry the permitCarry the permit and any required surveys, maps or structure lists in the vehicle, and present them for inspection to officers.
- What voids a permitA permit that contains incorrect information is void.
- Insurance certificateFile a certificate of insurance showing at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury cover and $25,000 per accident in property damage cover.
Permit before entryBuy online, before the border
OS/OW permits must be bought online before entering New Mexico and be in hand.
7NMDOT — NM-OPS New Mexico Operating Permit System · checked Oct 13, 2026Carry the permitPaper or legible electronic
Carry the permit and any required surveys, maps or structure lists in the vehicle, and present them for inspection to officers. A legible electronic copy is accepted.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026What voids a permitWrong info · missing papers
A permit that contains incorrect information is void. So is a permit whose route survey, bridge map, structure list or other required document isn't with the driver, on paper or electronically, during the move.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Insurance certificate$50k / $100k / $25k
File a certificate of insurance showing at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury cover and $25,000 per accident in property damage cover.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full2 official sources
Driver's papers
Carry a readable paper or electronic permit with its route, surveys, bridge maps, restricted structures and other attachments, and show it on request. Check it for errors and fix them before moving.
Permit before entry
OS/OW permits must be bought online before entering New Mexico and be in hand.
Carry the permit
Carry the permit and any required surveys, maps or structure lists in the vehicle, and present them for inspection to officers. A legible electronic copy is accepted.
What voids a permit
A permit that contains incorrect information is void. So is a permit whose route survey, bridge map, structure list or other required document isn't with the driver, on paper or electronically, during the move.
Insurance certificate
File a certificate of insurance showing at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury cover and $25,000 per accident in property damage cover.
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
Oilfield equipment multi-trip22′ W · 20′ H · 110′ L
A vehicle used only to haul equipment or materials for oil or gas production can get a multiple-trip permit up to 22′ wide, 20′ high and 110′ long.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Specialized haul multi-trip$400 · 4 counties + 3 interstates
Specialized haul vehicles can get a multiple-trip permit for $400 covering four contiguous counties and three interstates, plus $100 for each added county. The weekday rush-hour bans don't apply to it.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Manufactured home tax releaseCounty tax release
If the move starts in a New Mexico county, give NMDOT a tax release from the county assessor or treasurer. Some moves from a dealer's lot are exempt.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Manufactured homesDaylight only · no holidays
Manufactured homes move only in daylight, on days that aren't holidays, and not in inclement weather. A home over 18′ wide or 15′10″ high must ride on house-moving equipment, skids or dollies.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026Manufactured home signs and lightsWIDE LOAD sign · amber lights
When towing a manufactured home:
- Yellow WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the front of the tow unit and the rear of the home
- Two roof-mounted amber warning lights on the tow unit and at least one on the rear of the home
Houses and buildingsOver 30′ wide: NMDOT approval
Moving a house or building over 30′ wide needs NMDOT approval. Porches and protruding sections must be removed, and the structure may not be towed by a farm tractor or mounted on skids.
318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full1 official source
Special permits
Oilfield equipment, specialized haul, utility emergency, wrecker, manufactured housing, hay, farm and other multiple-trip permits each have their own eligibility, sizes, routes, papers and fees.
Oilfield equipment multi-trip
A vehicle used only to haul equipment or materials for oil or gas production can get a multiple-trip permit up to 22′ wide, 20′ high and 110′ long.
Specialized haul multi-trip
Specialized haul vehicles can get a multiple-trip permit for $400 covering four contiguous counties and three interstates, plus $100 for each added county. The weekday rush-hour bans don't apply to it.
Manufactured home tax release
If the move starts in a New Mexico county, give NMDOT a tax release from the county assessor or treasurer. Some moves from a dealer's lot are exempt.
Manufactured homes
Manufactured homes move only in daylight, on days that aren't holidays, and not in inclement weather. A home over 18′ wide or 15′10″ high must ride on house-moving equipment, skids or dollies.
Manufactured home signs and lights
When towing a manufactured home: Yellow WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the front of the tow unit and the rear of the home. Two roof-mounted amber warning lights on the tow unit and at least one on the rear of the home.
Houses and buildings
Moving a house or building over 30′ wide needs NMDOT approval. Porches and protruding sections must be removed, and the structure may not be towed by a farm tractor or mounted on skids.
Price your New Mexico loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
NM / Permit worksheet
Price your New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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.
- 01Current New Mexico Statutes Annotated 1978, Chapter 66 — Motor Vehicles
66-7-402, 66-7-404 and 66-7-406 · Page 591
Source record: - 02NMSA 1978 Chapter 66 — Motor Vehicles (NMOneSource, NM Compilation Commission)
66-3-824, 66-7-402, 66-7-404, 66-7-409, 66-7-410
Source record: - 0318.19.8 NMAC — Size and Weight of Vehicles and Loads (NM State Records Center and Archives)
18.19.8.7(J), .11, .13, .20–.40, .50–.66, .80–.99
Source record: - 04
- 05NMSA 66-7-413(D) — single-trip and major-fraction ton-mile fees
NMSA 66-7-413(D) — single-trip and major-fraction ton-mile fees
Source record: - 06WASHTO Western Regional Permit Desk Guide — New Mexico fee example
WASHTO Western Regional Permit Desk Guide — New Mexico fee example
Source record: - 07NMDOT — NM-OPS New Mexico Operating Permit System
Important News and Announcements — Permit Office; left-hand links (Escort Map, Bridge Map, Loading Chart)
Source record: - 0823 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record:
All 9 references
- 0923 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: