ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE NC
North CarolinaOversize & overweight permits.
North Carolina loads need the correct permit product and loaded measurements. Check pilot cars, larger-load review and the agency charges before quoting the move.
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- Steer20k lb
- Single20k / 25k lb
- Tandem38k / 50k lb
- Tridem60k lb
- Four or more68k lb
- Legal gross is set by the extreme axle measurement (federal bridge law).
The rule in full3 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: 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 102 inches wide and 14′ high statewide. Length, overhang and weight depend on the setup, axles, spacing, bridges, tires, postings, route and exceptions.
Axle limits: legal and with a permit
Legal: single 20,000 lb, tandem 38,000 lb. With a permit: steer 20,000 lb, single 25,000 lb, tandem 50,000 lb, tridem 60,000 lb, four or more 68,000 lb. Legal gross is set by the extreme axle measurement (federal bridge law).
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Flags & lampsWidth over 10′Over 10′ wide: a yellow 7′ × 18″ OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD banner with 10″ black letters on the front and rear bumpers.
4NCDOT — Publication ST-1, Single Trip Permits (Rev 11/19) · checked Oct 13, 2026What official sources leave open13
Where North Carolina’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- Conflict on superload width. Over 16′: the Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook (no revision date; PDF created Nov 2021) says “Width exceeds 16 feet” and the 2024 Certified EVO Handbook says “Width in excess of 16 feet.” 17′ or more: SL-6 (Rev 1/20) says “Width: 17’ or greater,” and ST-1 (Rev 11/19) caps single-trip width at 16′11″ while the handbook caps it at 16′. This file follows the newest dated document, the 2024 EVO Handbook.
- Superload weight wording differs: the handbook and SL-6 say gross over 132,000 lb (the handbook adds steer axle over 20,000 lb); the 2024 EVO Handbook says over 132,000 lb gross “on seven or more axles” and lists “Weight on four or more axle grouping 68,000 pounds,” which ST-1 and AN-1 list as the routine permit maximum.
- Conflict on the over-14′ two-lane trigger: the handbook requires front and rear escorts over 14′ wide on two-lane roads; E-9 (Rev 8/24), SL-6 and ST-1 list only a front escort on two-lane roads above 12′ for general loads. ST-1 and AN-1 (Rev 7/24) do require front and rear escorts on two-lane roads for 14′-wide mobile homes (AN-1: dealer to home site; manufacturer to dealer gets one front escort).
- Conflict on the length trigger: the handbook says front and rear escorts at 150′ or greater; E-9 and SL-6 say over 150′.
- Conflict on escort vehicle size: the handbook allows a truck of at least ¼-ton capacity up to 17,000 lb GVWR or a car of at least 2,000 lb; E-9 (Rev 8/24) and G.S. 20-119(f) say 2,000–26,000 lb GVWR. This file follows E-9.
- Conflict on continuous travel: the 2026 permits-page notice allows 24/7 up to 112,000 lb and 10′ wide; the handbook, ST-1 (Rev 11/19) and AN-1 (Rev 7/24) allow it only with no over-legal dimension. This file follows the newer page notice.
- Conflict on 16′ mobile homes: ST-1 and AN-1 (Rev 7/24) say Monday–Saturday 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; the handbook says Monday–Sunday.
- The handbook still says overheight applications may be faxed, but NCDOT stopped accepting faxed applications August 1, 2025, so parts of it may be out of date. Its equipment chart is also headed “15 feet Max Width” while permits run to 16′ and wider.
- Legal tandem axle: the handbook and G.S. 20-118(b)(2) set 38,000 lb; 23 CFR 658.17(d) sets 34,000 lb on the Interstate unless a state limit is grandfathered under 658.17(i). The sources fetched do not state whether NC's 38,000 lb applies on the Interstate.
- No published route-survey trigger for general loads; ST-1 and AN-1 require a route survey form only for 16′-wide mobile homes on certain routes.
- Electronic permit copies are not expressly accepted; G.S. 20-119(h) only bars a citation when the officer can confirm the permit electronically.
- 2027 holiday windows are not published: the permits page links only the 2026 schedule, and a 2027 schedule PDF at the same path returned 404 on 2026-10-13. Only the fixed holiday dates are listed; Thanksgiving 2027 is not listed.
- NC sources give gross weight by axle spacing (handbook: federal bridge law; G.S. 20-118(b)(3) table) rather than one legal gross figure; the 80,000 lb Interstate cap comes from 23 CFR 658.17(b).
The rule in full5 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Vehicle and load up to 102″ (8′6″) wide are legal; wider needs a permit.
Width 10′: Banners front and rear
Over 10′ wide: a yellow 7′ × 18″ OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD banner with 10″ black letters on the front and rear bumpers.
Width 12′: 1 escort
Over 12′ wide: a front escort on two-lane roads and a rear escort on multi-lane highways, unless the permit says otherwise.
Width 14′: Handbook: front + rear, two-lane
The handbook calls for front and rear escorts over 14′ wide on two-lane roads. The newer E-9 (Rev 8/24) lists only a front escort on two-lane roads above 12′, so confirm the crew on the permit.
Width 16′: 3 escorts incl. Highway Patrol
Over 16′ wide: three escorts in total, one of them an NC State Highway Patrol unit.
Width 16′: Superload
Over 16′ wide is a superload under NCDOT's 2024 EVO Handbook. The older SL-6 (Rev 1/20) puts the superload line at 17′ or wider.
Height 14′: Legal height
Up to 14′ high moves without a permit; taller needs one.
Height 14′5″: Height pole
Over 14′5″ high: a front pole car with a height pole indicator for the whole route.
Length 40′: Legal single vehicle
A single vehicle with two or more axles may be up to 40′ long, bumpers included.
Length 53′: Legal semitrailer
A truck tractor with one semitrailer up to 53′ has no overall length limit on any road.
Length 60′: Legal combination
Other combinations may be up to 60′ long, bumpers included.
Length 110′: Rear escort
Over 110′ long: a rear escort.
Length 150′: Front + rear escorts
Over 150′ long: front and rear escorts. The handbook says 150′ or more.
Overhang 14′ rear: Legal rear overhang max
Under the handbook's summary of NC law, a load may extend no more than 14′ past the rear of the bed or body.
Overhang 4′ rear: Flag by day, lights at night
Rear overhang over 4′: an 18″ red flag by day and clearance lights at night.
Overhang 15′ rear: Rear escort
Rear overhang of 15′ or more: a rear escort.
Weight 80,000 lb: Interstate gross cap
On the Interstate, federal rules cap gross weight at 80,000 lb, or less where the bridge formula says so.
Weight 112,000 lb: Holiday ban above 112,000 lb
Over 112,000 lb gross (or any overdimension): no travel from noon the weekday before to noon the weekday after Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Weight 132,000 lb: Superload
Over 132,000 lb gross, or over 20,000 lb on the steer axle, is a superload: $100 nonrefundable application fee, plus $3 per 1,000 lb over 132,000 on top of the state fee.
Weight 149,999 lb: Front escort
Over 149,999 lb: a front escort.
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- An NCDOT permit does not replace city, federal, tribal, private, port or facility approval.
- Find the owner of every segment.
Superload permitApply 10 business days ahead
Superload applications go in at least 10 business days before the move, for internal and bridge engineering review.
- Permit is valid 10 days for one trip
- $100 nonrefundable application fee, due when you apply
Superload status and activation16 business hours · call to activate
After applying, allow at least 16 business hours before calling about status. The permit is issued only when you call to activate it, unless you checked “Issue Upon Approval.”
- Bridge engineering studies expire after 90 days, and the application is then void
Single-trip permit10 days · $12 per dimension
A single-trip permit is good for 10 calendar days and costs $12 per dimension over the legal limit. There is no overall length limit, and the gross maximum is 132,000 lb.
- Over 16′ wide: apply in writing at least two business days before the move
Single-trip gross weight by axle count5/6/7 axles: 112k / 120k / 132k lb
Single-trip gross limits depend on the number of axles and the wheelbase:
- 5 axles: 112,000 lb (94,500 lb if the wheelbase is under 51′)
- 6 axles: 120,000 lb (108,000 lb under 51′)
- 7 axles: 132,000 lb (122,000 lb under 51′)
One-mile access1 mile off the permitted route
Where the permitted route uses an interstate, freeway or toll way, you may go up to one mile from the ramp terminal onto another state highway, as long as you cross no bridges and exceed no posted weight limits.
1NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook · checked Oct 13, 2026City and town streetsCities may issue street permits
Incorporated cities and towns may grant their own written permits to move oversize or overweight vehicles on their streets.
5N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-119 — Special permits for vehicles of excessive size or weight · checked Oct 13, 2026Route survey for 16′-wide homesPF-16A on some routes
A 16′-wide home application must include a Route Survey Form (PF-16A) from both the transporter and the certified escort driver when it uses restricted primary routes on the NC Truck Network map, or any secondary route west of Cleveland, Lincoln, Catawba, Iredell, Davie, Forsyth and Rockingham counties.
4NCDOT — Publication ST-1, Single Trip Permits (Rev 11/19) · checked Oct 13, 2026Official route and permit tools- PIMS permit systemOrder NCDOT permits online
- NCDOT Oversize/Overweight PermitsNotices, publications and forms
- Holiday schedule 2026Exact restricted windows
- Truck Network and RestrictionsTruck network map and route restrictions
- NC posted bridges mapsWeight-posted bridges by county
- Guidance for one-mile accessLeaving the permitted route at interchanges
- Escort reciprocity listOut-of-state escort certifications accepted
- EVO certification applicationEscort operator certification
The rule in full5 official sources
The permit authority
An NCDOT permit does not replace city, federal, tribal, private, port or facility approval. Find the owner of every segment.
Permits
A nondivisible load over legal limits needs a permit. A single-trip permit covers one trip within ten calendar days. Check it, sign it and carry it.
Superloads
Over 16′ wide, over 132,000 lb gross or over 20,000 lb on the steer axle, a load goes to written superload review. Routine permit limits alone never allow a move.
Superload permit
Superload applications go in at least 10 business days before the move, for internal and bridge engineering review. Permit is valid 10 days for one trip. $100 nonrefundable application fee, due when you apply.
Superload status and activation
After applying, allow at least 16 business hours before calling about status. The permit is issued only when you call to activate it, unless you checked “Issue Upon Approval.” Bridge engineering studies expire after 90 days, and the application is then void.
Single-trip permit
A single-trip permit is good for 10 calendar days and costs $12 per dimension over the legal limit. There is no overall length limit, and the gross maximum is 132,000 lb. Over 16′ wide: apply in writing at least two business days before the move.
Single-trip gross weight by axle count
Single-trip gross limits depend on the number of axles and the wheelbase: 5 axles: 112,000 lb (94,500 lb if the wheelbase is under 51′). 6 axles: 120,000 lb (108,000 lb under 51′). 7 axles: 132,000 lb (122,000 lb under 51′).
One-mile access
Where the permitted route uses an interstate, freeway or toll way, you may go up to one mile from the ramp terminal onto another state highway, as long as you cross no bridges and exceed no posted weight limits.
City and town streets
Incorporated cities and towns may grant their own written permits to move oversize or overweight vehicles on their streets.
Route survey for 16′-wide homes
A 16′-wide home application must include a Route Survey Form (PF-16A) from both the transporter and the certified escort driver when it uses restricted primary routes on the NC Truck Network map, or any secondary route west of Cleveland, Lincoln, Catawba, Iredell, Davie, Forsyth and Rockingham counties.
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$12- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full2 official sources
Example agency fee
$12 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 North Carolina. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
North Carolina'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?
WidthHeightLength1 front on two-lane roads1 rear on multi-lane undivided roads and divided highwaysMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
Height poleOver 14′5″ · 3″–6″ above load
Over 14′5″ high, the front pole car runs a height pole, mounted on the front and set 3–6″ above the load's maximum height.
- Nonconductive
- Must be stored when not escorting a load
Highway Patrol escortOver 16′ wide
Loads over 16′ wide need three escorts in total, one of them from the NC State Highway Patrol.
7NCDOT — Publication E-9, Escort Vehicles (Rev 8/24) · checked Oct 13, 2026Combined triggers and added escortsTriggers can stack · issuer may add
A load with more than one over-dimension may need multiple escorts, and the issuing agent can add escorts for width, length, height, weather, location or route.
7NCDOT — Publication E-9, Escort Vehicles (Rev 8/24) · checked Oct 13, 2026Escort vehicle2,000–26,000 lb GVWR
A vehicle of 2,000–26,000 lb GVWR that pulls no trailer and carries no hazardous materials.
- Amber rotating or strobe light on top, visible at least 500′ in all directions
Escort bannerBumper-wide · 10″ letters
Escorts carry a yellow WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD banner in 10″ black letters, the full width of the bumper: front escorts on the front bumper, rear escorts on the rear.
7NCDOT — Publication E-9, Escort Vehicles (Rev 8/24) · checked Oct 13, 2026Escort safety gearRadio · STOP/SLOW · vest · triangles
Each escort vehicle carries:
- Two-way radio contact with the load driver and other escorts
- STOP/SLOW paddle at least 18″ × 18″
- Approved safety vest, shirt or coat, worn while flagging
- At least three retroreflective triangles
- Fire extinguisher, 5 lb minimum, type BC or ABC
Escort operator certificationCertified before escorting
Every escort operator needs an approved escort certification before escorting in North Carolina, and must carry the credentials in the vehicle for inspection.
7NCDOT — Publication E-9, Escort Vehicles (Rev 8/24) · checked Oct 13, 2026Ways to qualify as an escortOther state · NC officer · NC course
You qualify through one of three routes; NC certifications are valid four years.
- Certified by another state's approved program
- North Carolina law enforcement officer
- Meet NC's own requirements, starting at age 18 or older
NC escort certification requirements8-hour course · 75% exam
NC's own certification path:
- No reckless-driving or impaired-driving citation in the past 12 months
- A defensive driving course approved by the National Safety Council
- At least 75% on the exam after all eight classroom hours
- Or, with a valid Class A CDL, you may sit for the certification exam
Escort reciprocity10 states accepted
An active escort certification from Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia or Washington is accepted in North Carolina. Your certification card and driver's license must be available for inspection while escorting.
8NCDOT — Escort Vehicle Certification Reciprocation Agreement (Rev 08/19) · checked Oct 13, 2026Escort rules on the roadCertified riders only · no devices
Pull to the roadside now and then, slowing to 25 mph or less, to let built-up traffic pass. The only passenger allowed is another certified escort operator, and electronic devices are off-limits except to pass hazard information to the load.
7NCDOT — Publication E-9, Escort Vehicles (Rev 8/24) · checked Oct 13, 2026No convoys2 miles apart
Permitted loads may not travel in convoy; keep at least two miles apart.
1NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full4 official sources
Height pole
Over 14′5″ high, the front pole car runs a height pole, mounted on the front and set 3–6″ above the load's maximum height. Nonconductive. Must be stored when not escorting a load.
Highway Patrol escort
Loads over 16′ wide need three escorts in total, one of them from the NC State Highway Patrol.
Combined triggers and added escorts
A load with more than one over-dimension may need multiple escorts, and the issuing agent can add escorts for width, length, height, weather, location or route.
Escort vehicle
A vehicle of 2,000–26,000 lb GVWR that pulls no trailer and carries no hazardous materials. Amber rotating or strobe light on top, visible at least 500′ in all directions.
Escort banner
Escorts carry a yellow WIDE LOAD or OVERSIZE LOAD banner in 10″ black letters, the full width of the bumper: front escorts on the front bumper, rear escorts on the rear.
Escort safety gear
Each escort vehicle carries: Two-way radio contact with the load driver and other escorts. STOP/SLOW paddle at least 18″ × 18″. Approved safety vest, shirt or coat, worn while flagging. At least three retroreflective triangles. Fire extinguisher, 5 lb minimum, type BC or ABC.
Escort operator certification
Every escort operator needs an approved escort certification before escorting in North Carolina, and must carry the credentials in the vehicle for inspection.
Ways to qualify as an escort
You qualify through one of three routes; NC certifications are valid four years. Certified by another state's approved program. North Carolina law enforcement officer. Meet NC's own requirements, starting at age 18 or older.
NC escort certification requirements
NC's own certification path: No reckless-driving or impaired-driving citation in the past 12 months. A defensive driving course approved by the National Safety Council. At least 75% on the exam after all eight classroom hours. Or, with a valid Class A CDL, you may sit for the certification exam.
Escort reciprocity
An active escort certification from Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia or Washington is accepted in North Carolina. Your certification card and driver's license must be available for inspection while escorting.
Escort rules on the road
Pull to the roadside now and then, slowing to 25 mph or less, to let built-up traffic pass. The only passenger allowed is another certified escort operator, and electronic devices are off-limits except to pass hazard information to the load.
No convoys
Permitted loads may not travel in convoy; keep at least two miles apart.
Over 12′ wide
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.
Over 14′ wide
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car. NCDOT’s handbook calls for front and rear escorts over 14 ft wide on two-lane roads and at 150 ft overall length. Publication E-9 gives a different width assignment and says over 150 ft. Budget the stricter applicable crew until NCDOT confirms the assignment on the permit.
Over 16′ wide
Width above 16 ft requires three escorts in total, including one NC State Highway Patrol vehicle. Pilot-car positions from the other triggers count within that team; they are not extra vehicles. Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 rear pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car. NCDOT’s handbook calls for front and rear escorts over 14 ft wide on two-lane roads and at 150 ft overall length. Publication E-9 gives a different width assignment and says over 150 ft. Budget the stricter applicable crew until NCDOT confirms the assignment on the permit.
Over 14′5″ high
All road types: 1 front (height pole required) pilot car.
Over 110′ long
All road types: 1 rear pilot car.
150′ long or more
All road types: 1 rear pilot car. NCDOT’s handbook calls for front and rear escorts over 14 ft wide on two-lane roads and at 150 ft overall length. Publication E-9 gives a different width assignment and says over 150 ft. Budget the stricter applicable crew until NCDOT confirms the assignment on the permit.
Over 150′ long
All road types: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
Sunrise to sunset.- Over 12′ wide: peak-hour limits in Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.
Overwidth, overheight or overlength loads, and loads over 112,000 lb gross, may not travel from noon Wednesday, Nov 25 to noon Friday, Nov 27, or from noon Thursday, Dec 24 to noon Monday, Dec 28, 2026. On NCDOT's other 2026 office holidays, travel is allowed under a permit issued beforehand.
- Nov25Day before Thanksgiving (from noon)
- Nov26Thanksgiving Day
- Nov27Day after Thanksgiving (until noon)
- Dec24Christmas Eve (from noon)
- Dec25Christmas Day
- Dec26Christmas weekend
- Dec27Christmas weekend
- Dec28Monday after Christmas (until noon)
The rule in full4 official sources
Daylight travel
Loads usually move from sunrise to sunset. The permit, holidays, weather, the route and city rush hours can shorten that.
Check the permit and date
Before dispatch, check the permit, the date, the holiday schedule, any 24/7 authority and the weather.
Rush hours and weather
Loads over 12′ wide have rush-hour limits in Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. Snow, ice, visibility under 500 feet and unsafe conditions stop all moves.
Sunrise to sunset
No movement between sunset and sunrise, Monday through Sunday, unless the permit says otherwise.
Continuous (24/7) travel
24/7/365 travel is allowed up to 112,000 lb gross and up to 10′ wide, as long as the move has no over-legal height or length.
Metro rush-hour ban
Loads over 12′ wide may not travel within 10 miles of the city limits of Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham or Chapel Hill from 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.
Weather stops
No moves when visibility is under 500′ or when the highway is covered with snow or ice. Mobile or modular units over 10′ wide stop when gusts exceed 25 mph.
International port loads
Permits for shipments going to or from international ports may not include a condition banning travel after sunset; NCDOT can still restrict unsafe moves.
2026 holiday restrictions
Overwidth, overheight or overlength loads, and loads over 112,000 lb gross, may not travel from noon Wednesday, Nov 25 to noon Friday, Nov 27, or from noon Thursday, Dec 24 to noon Monday, Dec 28, 2026. On NCDOT's other 2026 office holidays, travel is allowed under a permit issued beforehand. Day before Thanksgiving (from noon) (Nov 25, 2026), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26, 2026), Day after Thanksgiving (until noon) (Nov 27, 2026), Christmas Eve (from noon) (Dec 24, 2026), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2026), Christmas weekend (Dec 26, 2026), Christmas weekend (Dec 27, 2026), Monday after Christmas (until noon) (Dec 28, 2026).
2027 holidays named in the handbook
Loads over 112,000 lb gross or with any overdimension may not travel from noon on the weekday before until noon on the weekday after Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Only the fixed holiday dates are listed; NCDOT's permits page links only the 2026 schedule. Independence Day (Jul 4, 2027), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2027).
- 07Flags & lamps
Signs, flags and lights
Amber lamps at night (8′6″–10′ wide)2 amber lamps · 102″–120″ wide
Between sunset and sunrise, a load wider than 102″ and up to 120″ needs at least two working amber lamps at its widest points.
10NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Trucking Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026OVERSIZE LOAD banners7′ × 18″ · over 10′ wide
Over 10′ wide, show a yellow 7′ × 18″ banner reading OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD on the front and rear bumpers. Two banners totaling 7′ may be used to keep plates and decals visible.
4NCDOT — Publication ST-1, Single Trip Permits (Rev 11/19) · checked Oct 13, 2026Flags18″ red or orange
Red or orange 18″ square flags go on all four corners at the widest points of an overwidth load, or as the permit says.
4NCDOT — Publication ST-1, Single Trip Permits (Rev 11/19) · checked Oct 13, 2026Headlamps and radioHeadlamps on · two-way radio
The towing unit and escorts burn headlamps during the move, and the power unit keeps two-way radio contact with the escort.
1NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full4 official sources
Signs, flags and lights
Use the flags for width and overhang, warning banners front and rear, amber lights, headlights, radios and certified-escort equipment, as the handbook and permit require.
Amber lamps at night (8′6″–10′ wide)
Between sunset and sunrise, a load wider than 102″ and up to 120″ needs at least two working amber lamps at its widest points.
OVERSIZE LOAD banners
Over 10′ wide, show a yellow 7′ × 18″ banner reading OVERSIZE LOAD or WIDE LOAD on the front and rear bumpers. Two banners totaling 7′ may be used to keep plates and decals visible.
Flags
Red or orange 18″ square flags go on all four corners at the widest points of an overwidth load, or as the permit says.
Headlamps and radio
The towing unit and escorts burn headlamps during the move, and the power unit keeps two-way radio contact with the escort.
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Driver's papersBefore moving, check and sign the written permit.
- Carry the permitCarry the permit in the vehicle, open to inspection.
- Before you rollProof the permit for accuracy and sign it before travel on NC highways.
- License, insurance and authorityBefore applying and traveling: The permit is issued to the registered owner of the insured power unit.
Carry the permitIn the truck · e-check accepted
Carry the permit in the vehicle, open to inspection. An officer won't cite you if the permit can be confirmed electronically, and you are not responsible if you show NCDOT a valid permit within 30 days.
5N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-119 — Special permits for vehicles of excessive size or weight · checked Oct 13, 2026Before you rollProof and sign the permit
Proof the permit for accuracy and sign it before travel on NC highways. If anything is wrong, call the NCDOT Central Permit Office before you move.
1NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook · checked Oct 13, 2026License, insurance and authorityInsured power unit · IRP · authority
Before applying and traveling:
- The permit is issued to the registered owner of the insured power unit
- Proper license, insurance and operating authority for each permitted vehicle
- Towing unit licensed for the maximum allowable weight before an overweight permit
- Apportioned (IRP) registration before travel into or through NC
The rule in full3 official sources
Driver's papers
Before moving, check and sign the written permit. Carry it in the truck with its route and conditions, and show it on request. A phone copy alone is not enough unless the permit or NCDOT allows it.
Carry the permit
Carry the permit in the vehicle, open to inspection. An officer won't cite you if the permit can be confirmed electronically, and you are not responsible if you show NCDOT a valid permit within 30 days.
Before you roll
Proof the permit for accuracy and sign it before travel on NC highways. If anything is wrong, call the NCDOT Central Permit Office before you move.
License, insurance and authority
Before applying and traveling: The permit is issued to the registered owner of the insured power unit. Proper license, insurance and operating authority for each permitted vehicle. Towing unit licensed for the maximum allowable weight before an overweight permit. Apportioned (IRP) registration before travel into or through NC.
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
- Agricultural equipment moving between dealer and farm up to 14′ wide
- With unlimited moves and no escorts where bridge
- Load postings allow
Annual permits$185 · 12′ W · 105′ L
Annual permits for general nondivisible loads cost $185 per vehicle, are valid one year from issue, and allow up to 12′ wide (14′ for farm equipment, with special restrictions), legal 14′ height and 105′ long.
11NCDOT — Publication AN-1, Annual Permits (Rev 7/24) · checked Oct 13, 2026Annual permit weights90,000 lb anywhere · more by route
With a 51′+ extreme wheelbase, an annual permit covers up to 90,000 lb on all NC highways where posted road and bridge limits allow. Above 90,000 lb you must list specific routes, up to 10 per permit.
11NCDOT — Publication AN-1, Annual Permits (Rev 7/24) · checked Oct 13, 202616′-wide mobile/modular homes9 a.m.–2:30 p.m. · Mon–Sat
16′-wide homes move only 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, unless the permit says otherwise, with front and rear escorts on all highways.
- Total combination 105′ max; home 80′ max (76′ unit plus 4′ tongue)
14′-wide mobile/modular homesFront + rear on two-lane
On a single-trip permit, 14′-wide homes need front and rear escorts on two-lane roads and one rear escort on multi-lane highways, and may not travel within 10 miles of Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham or Chapel Hill city limits 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.
4NCDOT — Publication ST-1, Single Trip Permits (Rev 11/19) · checked Oct 13, 2026House movesDivision offices · $20 · 2 days
The house mover license has a $100 annual fee. House move permits come from NCDOT division/district offices, with a $20 fee, applied for at least two working days ahead.
1NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook · checked Oct 13, 2026Farm equipment annual permitUp to 14′ · no escorts
Annual overwidth permits cover agricultural equipment moving between dealer and farm up to 14′ wide, with unlimited moves and no escorts where bridge and load postings allow.
5N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-119 — Special permits for vehicles of excessive size or weight · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full4 official sources
Special permits
Annual, mobile and manufactured home, house, sealed-container, self-propelled, emergency, farm and superload permits each have their own eligibility, routes, papers and limits.
Annual permits
Annual permits for general nondivisible loads cost $185 per vehicle, are valid one year from issue, and allow up to 12′ wide (14′ for farm equipment, with special restrictions), legal 14′ height and 105′ long.
Annual permit weights
With a 51′+ extreme wheelbase, an annual permit covers up to 90,000 lb on all NC highways where posted road and bridge limits allow. Above 90,000 lb you must list specific routes, up to 10 per permit.
16′-wide mobile/modular homes
16′-wide homes move only 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, unless the permit says otherwise, with front and rear escorts on all highways. Total combination 105′ max; home 80′ max (76′ unit plus 4′ tongue).
14′-wide mobile/modular homes
On a single-trip permit, 14′-wide homes need front and rear escorts on two-lane roads and one rear escort on multi-lane highways, and may not travel within 10 miles of Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham or Chapel Hill city limits 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.
House moves
The house mover license has a $100 annual fee. House move permits come from NCDOT division/district offices, with a $20 fee, applied for at least two working days ahead.
Farm equipment annual permit
Annual overwidth permits cover agricultural equipment moving between dealer and farm up to 14′ wide, with unlimited moves and no escorts where bridge and load postings allow.
Price your North Carolina loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
NC / Permit worksheet
Price your North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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.
- 01NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Handbook
North Carolina Laws p. 2; Permit Type pp. 7–8; Responsibility of Permittee p. 9; Houses p. 10; Permit Rules p. 14; Equipment/Safety pp. 17–19; Travel pp. 19–20
Source record: - 02
- 03NCDOT — Publication SL-6, Superload Permits (Rev 1/20)
Permit Regulations; Policies & Procedures; Travel Regulations
Source record: - 04NCDOT — Publication ST-1, Single Trip Permits (Rev 11/19)
Permit Regulations; Travel Regulations; Safety Equipment; Mobile/Modular Homes (14 FT and 16 FT WIDE)
Source record: - 05N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-119 — Special permits for vehicles of excessive size or weight
§ 20-119(a), (b3), (g), (h)
Source record: - 06NCDOT — Certified Escort Vehicle Operator Handbook (2024)
Chapter 1 Qualifications, How to Become Certified, superload definition; Chapter 2 Height Pole
Source record: - 07NCDOT — Publication E-9, Escort Vehicles (Rev 8/24)
Introduction; Required Equipment; General Procedures and Safety Provisions; OS/OW Loads Requiring an Escort
Source record: - 08
All 13 references
- 09NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Permit Office Holiday Closings 2026
Travel Restrictions column
Source record: - 10NCDOT — Oversize/Overweight Trucking Permits
Attention: Continuous Travel Qualifications Update; Generally a permit is required if
Source record: - 11NCDOT — Publication AN-1, Annual Permits (Rev 7/24)
General Non-Divisible Commodity: Permit Regulations
Source record: - 1223 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record: - 1323 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: