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ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE ND

North DakotaOversize & overweight permits.

North Dakota permits depend on the load and the roads used. Check seasonal restrictions, night-travel conditions and pilot-car requirements before departure.

Calculate ND permit feesRequest permit help

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

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North Dakota · General width8′6″
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  1. 01Legal size

    What is legal without a permit?

    Axle limits with a permit With a permit
    • Single (4 tires)24k lb
    • Tandem (8 tires)45k lb
    • Triple (12 tires)60k lb
    • Four axles (16 tires)68k lb
    • Permit maximums include all tolerances.
    • Tire width also limits permit weight: 600 lb per inch on single and tandem axles, 550 lb per inch on groups of three or more.
    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full5 official sources

    General width: 8′6″

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

    Loaded height: 14′

    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.

    Legal size

    Legal limits are 8′6″ wide and 14′ high. Length and weight depend on the setup, axles, spacing, tires, registration, maps, season and route.

    Width and height

    Legal width is 8′6″ and legal height is 14′. Exceptions depend on the load.

    Axle limits with a permit

    With a permit: single (4 tires) 24,000 lb, tandem (8 tires) 45,000 lb, triple (12 tires) 60,000 lb, four axles (16 tires) 68,000 lb. Permit maximums include all tolerances. Tire width also limits permit weight: 600 lb per inch on single and tandem axles, 550 lb per inch on groups of three or more.

    Legal axle weights off the Interstate

    On highways other than the Interstate, legal limits are 20,000 lb on a single axle, 34,000 lb on a tandem and 48,000 lb on a group of three or more axles.

  2. 02Requirements

    Where each requirement starts

    Pilot carsWidth over 14′6″

    Over 14′6″ through 16′ wide: one pilot car ahead on two-lane highways, or amber lights on the hauling vehicle instead. No pilot car is needed on four-lane divided highways.

    8NDHP Policy 9-15 — Pilot Car Policy (1/2016) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    What official sources leave open15

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

    • No height-pole rule is published; over 18′ high a pilot car leads, but the policies don't say it must carry a pole.
    • No published maximum permit width, height or length for general single-trip loads (only manufactured housing, 18′ wide, and the annual permits).
    • The Pilot Car Policy sets no certification or training beyond a driver 18 or older with a valid license; no pilot-car reciprocity rule is published.
    • Conflict on Highway Patrol escorts over 18′ wide: Policy 9-6 and the Pilot Car Policy say only if the regional commander deems it necessary; the Heavy Load Policy (Annex E, 8/2023) says loads over 200,000 lb that exceed 18′ wide will require an official escort unless the commander exempts them.
    • Conflict on whom to contact for a Highway Patrol escort: Policy 9-6 (11/21/2025) says the regional commander(s) in the region(s) the load will travel; the Pilot Car Policy (1/2016) says the regional commander where the load originates.
    • Service/routing fee conflict: Policy 9-6 (11/21/2025) lists $10 per single-trip permit; the E-Permits page lists $8 for over-dimensional-only single trips (and $10 for Interstate and 129,000 lb permits); the Heavy Load (8/2023) and Manufactured Housing (08/2023) policies list $8.
    • Utility threshold wording differs: Policy 9-6 requires written utility authority for loads exceeding 18′ high; the E-Permits page says 18′ or higher.
    • Load diagram thresholds differ by product: Policy 9-6 requires the track width form over 250,000 lb (or non-standard trailers or narrow track); the E-Permits Building/Trunnion section requires a vehicle loading diagram over 200,000 lb or with 8 tires on an axle.
    • The NDHP permit page caps tandem axles at 40,000 lb and single axles at 22,000 lb over 150,000 lb gross; Policy 9-6's axle table (24,000 single, 45,000 tandem) doesn't mention that reduction.
    • Night travel wording differs: Policy 9-6 allows night moves only at 12′ or less wide and 120′ or less long; the 2026 calendar says loads 12′ or less wide, 120′ or less long or overweight only may travel day or night with proper lighting.
    • NDCC 39-12-04(4)(f) exempts tractor-semitrailer combinations on the Interstate and designated federal-aid routes from the state length limits where federal law requires; the 75′/110′ combination limits don't reflect that.
    • No route-survey requirement is published; clearances are the permittee's responsibility and written utility authority is required over 18′.
    • No statewide metro rush-hour curfew is published; Fargo has its own city policy.
    • Only fixed-date 2027 holidays are listed: NDHP has not posted a 2027 calendar (the 2027 calendar URL returned 404), so Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving 2027 windows and any observed-day handling (July 4, 2027 falls on a Sunday) are unpublished.
    • Paper vs electronic: Policy 9-6, Policy 9-8 and NDCC 39-12-02 accept a legible electronic or paper permit, but the E-Permits page says mobile home and workover rig permits need a paper copy.
    The rule in full4 official sources

    Width 8′6″: Legal width

    Up to 8′6″ wide moves without a permit; wider needs one.

    Width 14′6″: Front pilot car or amber lights

    Over 14′6″ through 16′ wide: one pilot car ahead on two-lane highways, or amber lights on the hauling vehicle instead. No pilot car is needed on four-lane divided highways.

    Width 16′: 2 pilot cars

    Over 16′ wide: pilot cars front and rear on two-lane highways (300′–700′), and one behind on four-lane divided highways.

    Width 18′: Highway Patrol escort possible

    Over 18′ wide: the regional commander may require a Highway Patrol escort on top of the private pilot cars. Double trailers are not allowed over 18′ wide.

    Width 20′: Traffic control plan

    Building or trunnion permit loads over 20′ wide need a traffic control plan. It can be uploaded with the vehicle loading diagram.

    Height 14′: Legal height

    Up to 14′ high moves without a permit; taller needs one.

    Height 16′: US 85: call WAPA

    16′ or higher on US 85 between Grassy Butte and Williston: the permit holder must contact WAPA.

    Height 18′: Front pilot car

    Over 18′ high: one pilot car ahead of the load, 300′–700′.

    Height 18′: Utility sign-off

    Over 18′ high: get written authority from the utility companies to pass under overhead wires.

    Length 50′: Legal single unit

    A single-unit vehicle with its load may be up to 50′ long.

    Length 53′: Legal trailer with load

    A trailer or semitrailer, load included, may be up to 53′ long.

    Length 75′: Legal combination

    A two-unit combination with its load may be up to 75′ long, or up to 110′ on four-lane divided highways and highways the director designates.

    Length 120′: Rear pilot car

    Over 120′ long: one pilot car behind the load, 300′–700′.

    Overhang 4′ rear: Red flag and red light

    Rear overhang of 4′ or more: a 12″ × 12″ red flag at the end by day and a red clearance light visible 500′ at night.

    Weight 80,000 lb: Legal gross, Interstate

    80,000 lb gross maximum on the Interstate, subject to the bridge formula.

    Weight 105,500 lb: Legal gross, state highways

    Up to 105,500 lb gross on state highways unless posted, within the weight formula; 80,000 lb on other highways unless the local authority designates up to 105,500 lb.

    Weight 150,000 lb: Axle caps over 150,000 lb

    Over 150,000 lb gross: tandem axles are capped at 40,000 lb and single axles at 22,000 lb.

    Weight 175,000 lb: Break the load down

    Over 175,000 lb, if the district and bridge engineers can't both approve the route: dozer blades and rippers come off and are hauled separately, scrapers are split, and crane counterweights are removed.

    Weight 200,000 lb: Heavy Load permit

    Over 200,000 lb gross: the Heavy Load Permit Policy applies (see the Heavy Load card).

    Weight 250,000 lb: Track width diagram

    Over 250,000 lb gross, with a non-standard trailer, or with outside track width under 6′ (two-tire axles) or 8′ (four-tire axles): complete the track width measurements form (load diagram).

  3. 03The permit

    Which permit do you need?

    1. NDHP permits cover only the state route on the permit.
    2. Fargo has its own city policy.
    3. Other local, tribal, federal, private and facility roads need their own approval.
    North Dakota Highway Patrol, Permit Office
    Single-trip permitOne-way · 5 days

    A single-trip permit covers one vehicle or combination for one one-way move within five days. A self-propelled fixed vehicle may instead make multiple moves within one 24-hour period.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Heavy Load permitOver 200,000 lb · 1–15 days ahead

    Loads over 200,000 lb need NDDOT bridge engineer and district engineer approval before the permit is issued. Apply 1 to 15 days ahead unless there is an emergency.

    • Include a statement that the load's weight can't be reduced and no other way to move it is available
    6NDHP Policy 9-6 Annex E — Heavy Load Permit Policy for Loads in Excess of 200,000 Pounds (8/2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Heavy Load fees$.05 per ton-mile over 200,000 lb

    Heavy Load permits carry a ton-mile fee plus other charges:

    • $.05 per ton per mile on the gross weight above 200,000 lb
    • $8 service/routing fee per permit
    • $25 engineering fee per application when extra analysis is needed
    6NDHP Policy 9-6 Annex E — Heavy Load Permit Policy for Loads in Excess of 200,000 Pounds (8/2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    150,000–175,000 lbDistrict engineer approval

    Over 150,000 lb up to 175,000 lb, loads must be reasonably reduced, and moves need district engineer approval unless they use pre-approved routes within the set weight limits.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Permit limits for 4+ axle groups19,000 lb per axle

    On a permit, axle groups of four or more may carry no more than 19,000 lb per axle; a five-axle group is capped at 85,000 lb and a six-axle group at 102,000 lb.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Spring and heat limitsNo overweight in spring thaw

    Overweight permits aren't issued during spring road restrictions, or on highways with other road restrictions, except under the Road Restriction Permit Policy (9-17) or in a declared emergency.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    County, township and city roadsLocal permits are separate

    The Highway Patrol and local authorities each issue permits only for highways under their own jurisdiction, so county, township and city roads need the local authority's permit.

    1North Dakota Century Code Chapter 39-12 · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Official route and permit tools
    The rule in full6 official sources

    The permit authority

    NDHP permits cover only the state route on the permit. Fargo has its own city policy. Other local, tribal, federal, private and facility roads need their own approval.

    Permits

    Have a readable paper or electronic permit before entering North Dakota or starting the move. A single trip is one-way within five days. Self-propelled fixed-load vehicles have their own option.

    Heavy and extreme loads

    Heavy loads, loads over 200,000 lb, nonstandard trailers, narrow-track equipment and extreme sizes go through extra NDHP engineering review. Routine limits alone never allow a move.

    Single-trip permit

    A single-trip permit covers one vehicle or combination for one one-way move within five days. A self-propelled fixed vehicle may instead make multiple moves within one 24-hour period.

    Heavy Load permit

    Loads over 200,000 lb need NDDOT bridge engineer and district engineer approval before the permit is issued. Apply 1 to 15 days ahead unless there is an emergency. Include a statement that the load's weight can't be reduced and no other way to move it is available.

    Heavy Load fees

    Heavy Load permits carry a ton-mile fee plus other charges: $.05 per ton per mile on the gross weight above 200,000 lb. $8 service/routing fee per permit. $25 engineering fee per application when extra analysis is needed.

    150,000–175,000 lb

    Over 150,000 lb up to 175,000 lb, loads must be reasonably reduced, and moves need district engineer approval unless they use pre-approved routes within the set weight limits.

    Permit limits for 4+ axle groups

    On a permit, axle groups of four or more may carry no more than 19,000 lb per axle; a five-axle group is capped at 85,000 lb and a six-axle group at 102,000 lb.

    Spring and heat limits

    Overweight permits aren't issued during spring road restrictions, or on highways with other road restrictions, except under the Road Restriction Permit Policy (9-17) or in a declared emergency.

    County, township and city roads

    The Highway Patrol and local authorities each issue permits only for highways under their own jurisdiction, so county, township and city roads need the local authority's permit.

  4. 04Permit cost

    What does the permit cost?

    Example agency fee$30
    • 8′7″ W
    • 13′ H
    • 70′
    • 72,000 lb
    • 100 miles
    The rule in full2 official sources

    Example agency fee

    $30 for a nondivisible load 8′7″ wide, 13′ high and 70′ long at 72,000 lb gross, on a five-axle truck with a 48′ trailer, for 100 miles in North Dakota. Enter your own load in the calculator below.

    What the fee covers

    North Dakota's fee depends on the permit product and the loaded vehicle. The calculator itemizes the published charges it can price. Local permits, escorts, tolls, payment charges and ODPermit services are separate.

  5. 05Pilot cars

    When do you need pilot cars?

    Width
    Height
    Length
    Positions here aren’t fixed by size alone; the scene shows the load only.May need: Pilot car or approved amber lighting

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

    When pilot cars are needed14′6″ W · 18′ H · 120′ L

    Moves over 14′6″ wide, 18′ high or 120′ long must have an official escort or approved pilot cars. See the Pilot Car Policy (9-15) for placement.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Combined triggers and heavy loadsEngineers or NDHP may add more

    When a load hits more than one pilot-car trigger (width, length, height or weight), NDDOT engineers or NDHP may require one or more pilot cars. Engineers may also require one or two pilot cars on overweight moves beyond normal permit weights.

    8NDHP Policy 9-15 — Pilot Car Policy (1/2016) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Highway Patrol escortOver 18′ wide, if required

    Over 18′ wide, the regional commander may require a Highway Patrol escort, on top of the private pilot cars.

    • NDHP escort fee: $50 per hour and $.50 per mile per trooper
    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Pilot car requirementsCar or 2-axle truck · driver 18+

    Pilot car basics:

    • A passenger vehicle or two-axle truck only
    • Driver 18 or older with a valid license
    • Radio contact with the vehicle being escorted
    • Pilot cars not registered in North Dakota need temporary registration when escorting intrastate moves
    8NDHP Policy 9-15 — Pilot Car Policy (1/2016) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Pilot car sign and lightsSign 12″ × 60″ · amber lights

    Each pilot car carries:

    • An OVERSIZE LOAD sign at least 12″ × 60″, yellow with black letters
    • Flashing amber lights on both ends of the sign, or one revolving amber light centered on top
    8NDHP Policy 9-15 — Pilot Car Policy (1/2016) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Convoys1,000′ apart

    A convoy needs no extra pilot cars as long as each unit stays at least 1,000′ apart, so passing traffic isn't hampered.

    8NDHP Policy 9-15 — Pilot Car Policy (1/2016) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full2 official sources

    When pilot cars are needed

    Moves over 14′6″ wide, 18′ high or 120′ long must have an official escort or approved pilot cars. See the Pilot Car Policy (9-15) for placement.

    Combined triggers and heavy loads

    When a load hits more than one pilot-car trigger (width, length, height or weight), NDDOT engineers or NDHP may require one or more pilot cars. Engineers may also require one or two pilot cars on overweight moves beyond normal permit weights.

    Highway Patrol escort

    Over 18′ wide, the regional commander may require a Highway Patrol escort, on top of the private pilot cars. NDHP escort fee: $50 per hour and $.50 per mile per trooper.

    Pilot car requirements

    Pilot car basics: A passenger vehicle or two-axle truck only. Driver 18 or older with a valid license. Radio contact with the vehicle being escorted. Pilot cars not registered in North Dakota need temporary registration when escorting intrastate moves.

    Pilot car sign and lights

    Each pilot car carries: An OVERSIZE LOAD sign at least 12″ × 60″, yellow with black letters. Flashing amber lights on both ends of the sign, or one revolving amber light centered on top.

    Convoys

    A convoy needs no extra pilot cars as long as each unit stays at least 1,000′ apart, so passing traffic isn't hampered.

    Over 14′6″ wide

    Above 14 ft 6 in through 16 ft wide, plan one front pilot car on two-lane highways, or compliant amber lighting visible front and rear for 500 ft in its place. Four-lane divided highways have no width-based pilot-car requirement through 16 ft. The lighting alternative does not replace escorts required by height or length.

    Over 16′ wide

    The published width table distinguishes two-lane and four-lane divided highways. Confirm placement for any other road type on the itinerary. Two-lane roads: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars. Multi-lane undivided roads: placement to confirm with NDHP. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.

    Over 18′ wide

    The published width table distinguishes two-lane and four-lane divided highways. Confirm placement for any other road type on the itinerary. The regional commander may require Highway Patrol in addition to private pilot cars for width over 18 ft. Two-lane roads: 1 front and 1 rear pilot cars. Multi-lane undivided roads: placement to confirm with NDHP. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.

    Over 18′ high

    Obtain written authority from utility companies before moving this load under overhead wires. All road types: 1 front pilot car.

    Over 120′ long

    All road types: 1 rear pilot car.

  6. 06Travel hours

    When can you move?

    Night travel only up to 12′ wide and 120′ long, unless approved.
    • Over 16′ wide: no Saturday afternoon, Sunday or holiday travel.

    NDHP's 2026 calendar: loads over 16′ wide may not move from noon the day before until sunrise the day after each of these holidays.

    1. Nov ’2625Day before Thanksgiving (from noon)
    2. Nov ’2626Thanksgiving Day
    3. Dec ’2624Christmas Eve (from noon)
    4. Dec ’2625Christmas Day
    5. Dec ’2631New Year's Eve (from noon)
    6. Jan ’271New Year's Day
    9NDHP — 2026 Calendar, Oversize Travel Restrictions · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full3 official sources

    Night travel

    Night moves are limited to 12′ wide and 120′ long unless approved. Over 16′ wide: no weekend or holiday moves. Weather, visibility, shoulders and the permit also control.

    Night moves

    Night moves up to 12′ wide and 120′ long still need permit authority, lights, highway speed and safe conditions. Larger loads need special approval.

    Weekends and conditions

    Over 16′ wide: no moves from Saturday noon, on Sundays or on holidays. Slippery roads, bad weather, visibility of half a mile or less, shoulders, construction, spring limits and current maps can stop or reroute a move.

    Hot-weather limit

    Overweight permits are not valid on asphalt (bituminous) pavement at 90°F or above, or when NDDOT otherwise deems it necessary.

    Daylight moves, any day

    Loads up to 16′ wide, and overheight or overlength-only loads, may move any day from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset.

    Night travel

    Single-trip permits allow night moves (½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise) only for loads 12′ wide or less and 120′ long or less, unless the superintendent approves.

    Weekend and holiday ban

    Loads over 16′ wide may not move Saturday after noon, all day Sunday, or from noon the day before until sunrise the day after New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

    Weather and shoulders

    No moves in inclement weather, on slippery roads or when visibility is ½ mile or less. Permits don't allow driving on shoulders, and you must let traffic pass.

    Over 16′ wide — holiday windows

    NDHP's 2026 calendar: loads over 16′ wide may not move from noon the day before until sunrise the day after each of these holidays. Day before Thanksgiving (from noon) (Nov 25, 2026), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26, 2026), Christmas Eve (from noon) (Dec 24, 2026), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2026), New Year's Eve (from noon) (Dec 31, 2026), New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2027).

    Over 16′ wide — 2027 fixed holidays (by policy)

    Policy 9-6: permits for loads over 16′ wide are not valid from noon the day before until sunrise the day after these holidays. Only fixed-date 2027 holidays are listed; NDHP's site has only a 2026 calendar so far. Day before Independence Day (from noon) (Jul 3, 2027), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2027), Christmas Eve (from noon) (Dec 24, 2027), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2027), Day before New Year's Day 2028 (from noon) (Dec 31, 2027).

  7. 07Flags & lamps

    Signs, flags and lights

    Overhead clearancesCables as low as 15′6″

    Permits aren't issued for moves taller than the clearance under structures, and all vertical clearances are your responsibility.

    • Communication cables can be as low as 15′6″ and signal lights as low as 16′
    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Night travel lightingClearance + amber cab lights

    Oversize moves authorized to run at night need:

    • Clearance lights visible front, rear and side, marking anything that sticks out past 8′6″
    • One rotating or two flashing amber lights mounted above the cab
    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    OVERSIZE LOAD signs12″ × 60″ · 8″ letters

    Over 75′ long and/or over 8′6″ wide: at least a 12″ × 60″ OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the front and rear, black letters at least 8″ high on yellow.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Flags18″ red or bright orange

    All oversize loads show red or bright orange flags at least 18″ × 18″ on the traffic side, front and rear. The towing vehicle needs two mirrors showing 200′ behind.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full3 official sources

    Signs, flags and lights

    Use 18-inch flags. Over 75′ long or 8′6″ wide, use signs. At night, use clearance and amber lights. Mark rear overhang of 4 feet or more. Use mirrors, secure the load, keep radio contact with escorts and follow the permit.

    Overhead clearances

    Permits aren't issued for moves taller than the clearance under structures, and all vertical clearances are your responsibility. Communication cables can be as low as 15′6″ and signal lights as low as 16′.

    Night travel lighting

    Oversize moves authorized to run at night need: Clearance lights visible front, rear and side, marking anything that sticks out past 8′6″. One rotating or two flashing amber lights mounted above the cab.

    OVERSIZE LOAD signs

    Over 75′ long and/or over 8′6″ wide: at least a 12″ × 60″ OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the front and rear, black letters at least 8″ high on yellow.

    Flags

    All oversize loads show red or bright orange flags at least 18″ × 18″ on the traffic side, front and rear. The towing vehicle needs two mirrors showing 200′ behind.

  8. 08Driver paperwork

    What the driver carries

    • Driver's papersCarry a readable paper or electronic permit or receipt before entering the state or moving.
    • Carry the permitHave a legible electronic or paper copy of the permit before entering North Dakota or starting the move, and follow the restrictions printed on it.
    • What to have readyThe application asks for: Power unit year, make, serial number, license plate and state, and ND registered gross weight.
    • Registration and trip permitsOut-of-state vehicles not registered in North Dakota need a $20 72-hour trip permit on ND highways (the E-Permits page lists which vehicles and exemptions).
    Carry the permitPaper or legible electronic

    Have a legible electronic or paper copy of the permit before entering North Dakota or starting the move, and follow the restrictions printed on it.

    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    What to have readyAxles, tires, track width

    The application asks for:

    • Power unit year, make, serial number, license plate and state, and ND registered gross weight
    • Tire width from the sidewall, number of axles, tires per axle, axle spacings and track width
    • Overall width, height, length and overhang
    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Registration and trip permits72-hour trip permit $20

    Out-of-state vehicles not registered in North Dakota need a $20 72-hour trip permit on ND highways (the E-Permits page lists which vehicles and exemptions). Nonresidents without an IFTA license may buy a $15 72-hour fuel permit instead.

    5NDHP — E-Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full3 official sources

    Driver's papers

    Carry a readable paper or electronic permit or receipt before entering the state or moving. Follow its route, restrictions, safety rules and any notices of changed conditions.

    Carry the permit

    Have a legible electronic or paper copy of the permit before entering North Dakota or starting the move, and follow the restrictions printed on it.

    What to have ready

    The application asks for: Power unit year, make, serial number, license plate and state, and ND registered gross weight. Tire width from the sidewall, number of axles, tires per axle, axle spacings and track width. Overall width, height, length and overhang.

    Registration and trip permits

    Out-of-state vehicles not registered in North Dakota need a $20 72-hour trip permit on ND highways (the E-Permits page lists which vehicles and exemptions). Nonresidents without an IFTA license may buy a $15 72-hour fuel permit instead.

  9. 09Special permits

    Special loads and permit programs

    Self-propelled earthmoving equipment20 mph · rear pilot car

    Scrapers, rubber-tired dozers and loaders driven on the highway:

    • 52,000 lb per axle max unless DOT district engineers authorize more
    • Tires deflated to 30 psi for asphalt (bituminous) pavement
    • 20 mph max with a rear pilot car; stop and cool tires for 30 minutes after every 2 hours
    3NDHP Policy 9-6 — Permits for Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and/or Loads Excluding Workover Rigs (11/21/2025) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Annual overwidth and overlength14′6″ W or 120′ L · $150

    Annual permits can be bought in place of single trips. Each costs $150:

    • Overlength: up to 120′ long, valid 365 days
    • Overwidth: up to 14′6″ wide; not for hay, straw or manufactured homes
    5NDHP — E-Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Manufactured housing18′ max width

    Mobile homes and modular units may be permitted up to 18′ wide on state highways, roof overhang and door handles included.

    • Over 14′6″ wide (overhang included): flashing amber lights on the front of the tow vehicle and the rear of the home
    11NDHP Policy 9-8 — Manufactured Housing Permit Policy (08/2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    Manufactured housing: wind, insurance, escortsNo travel in wind over 25 mph

    For mobile home and modular unit moves:

    • No travel when wind exceeds 25 mph
    • Tow vehicle insurance: $100,000 bodily injury per person, $300,000 per accident, $50,000 property damage
    • Up to 16′ wide: no pilot cars, unless otherwise determined
    11NDHP Policy 9-8 — Manufactured Housing Permit Policy (08/2023) · checked Oct 13, 2026
    The rule in full3 official sources

    Special permits

    129,000 lb primary-network, seasonal, custom-combine, bridge-length, annual overwidth and overlength, approved-equipment, heavy-load and self-propelled permits each have their own eligibility, papers, routes and seasons.

    Self-propelled earthmoving equipment

    Scrapers, rubber-tired dozers and loaders driven on the highway: 52,000 lb per axle max unless DOT district engineers authorize more. Tires deflated to 30 psi for asphalt (bituminous) pavement. 20 mph max with a rear pilot car; stop and cool tires for 30 minutes after every 2 hours.

    Annual overwidth and overlength

    Annual permits can be bought in place of single trips. Each costs $150: Overlength: up to 120′ long, valid 365 days. Overwidth: up to 14′6″ wide; not for hay, straw or manufactured homes.

    Manufactured housing

    Mobile homes and modular units may be permitted up to 18′ wide on state highways, roof overhang and door handles included. Over 14′6″ wide (overhang included): flashing amber lights on the front of the tow vehicle and the rear of the home.

    Manufactured housing: wind, insurance, escorts

    For mobile home and modular unit moves: No travel when wind exceeds 25 mph. Tow vehicle insurance: $100,000 bodily injury per person, $300,000 per accident, $50,000 property damage. Up to 16′ wide: no pilot cars, unless otherwise determined.

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

ND / Permit worksheet

Price your North Dakota movement.

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

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

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

01

Loaded dimensions

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

Width
Height
Overall length
02

Equipment & registration

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

Actual axle groups

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

No ODPermit fee or markup. No contact details required.

Your estimate

The numbers behind your next move.

Your result will show the agency fee breakdown, potential pilot-car requirements, and the rules used to calculate them.

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

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

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

The samples use ODPermit’s editable 48 ft flatbed · 5 axles planning profile. Loaded dimensions, gross weight, 100 state miles and North Dakota registration are example inputs, not a capacity rating or a route approval. Replace them with your actual setup.

Great Dane Freedom flatbed brochure — Drop-deck option: 20–26 in drop from the upper deck with a 40–34 in rear deck height, which gives the 60 in upper-deck planning height. Platform length, combined tare and tractor geometry are editable ODPermit assumptions.

BEFORE THE TRUCK ROLLS

Turn the estimate
into a permitted move.

Confirm the loaded measurements, carrier details, travel dates and exact pickup and delivery. We can help coordinate permits, escorts and route surveys around those facts.

Request permit help

THE SOURCE RECORD

Official references.

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

  1. 01
    North Dakota Century Code Chapter 39-12

    39-12-02(1)(a), 39-12-04, 39-12-05, 39-12-05.3

    Source record:
  2. 02
    Permit Policy 9-6 — Oversize and Overweight Vehicles and Loads

    Procedure A.6 · Page 3

    Source record:
  3. 03
  4. 04
    City of Fargo Policy Regulating Overdimensional Vehicles

    City of Fargo policy · Page 1

    Source record:
  5. 05
    NDHP — E-Permits

    Information needed; Building/Trunnion; Overwidth-Annual; Overlength-Annual; Trip Permit; Mobile Home

    Source record:
  6. 06
  7. 07
    NDAC 38-06-03 — weight tiers and restricted-road charges

    NDAC 38-06-03 — weight tiers and restricted-road charges

    Source record:
  8. 08
    NDHP Policy 9-15 — Pilot Car Policy (1/2016)

    Procedure A, B, C

    Source record:
All 13 references
  1. 09
    NDHP — 2026 Calendar, Oversize Travel Restrictions

    2026 travel restrictions table

    Source record:
  2. 10
    North Dakota Commercial Driver License Manual

    Cargo securement

    Source record:
  3. 11
    NDHP Policy 9-8 — Manufactured Housing Permit Policy (08/2023)

    A.2.d; B; D.3; E.1; H

    Source record:
  4. 12
    23 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths

    Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)

    Source record:
  5. 13
    23 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights

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

    Source record:
How ODPermit uses official sources

ACROSS THE STATE LINE

Keep the whole trip in view.

All state guides