ODPERMIT / STATE FIELD GUIDE VT
VermontOversize & overweight permits.
For a Vermont equipment move, check the permit product, loaded dimensions and bridge or engineering requirements before committing the truck.
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 with a permit With a permit- Single-wheel axle (steer)12k lb
- Each axle with dual wheels20k lb
- Legal axle limits come from 23 V.S.A. § 1391 and differ on the Interstate; see the legal axle weights card.
- No wheel may put more than 600 lb per inch of tire width on the road (manufacturer's tire width).
- DMV can review single-trip weight permits up to 150,000 lb in-house when the axles carry no more than these rates; over the formula the request is denied, and further consideration may need more information or an engineering review.
- Annual blanket permits (nondivisible loads): 12,000 lb on the steering axle and 20,000 lb on all other axles; 5-axle combination 92,000 lb, 6 or more axles 108,000 lb.
The rule in full7 official sources
General width: 8′6″
Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; safety-device, vehicle and load exceptions may apply.
Loaded height: 13′6″
Ordinary vehicle-and-load limit; listed exceptions and actual route clearances apply.
NN semitrailer: 48′
Federal National Network allowance for a tractor with one semitrailer. Longer trailers may qualify under state axle-position and route rules; local roads can differ.
Overall length: No NN cap*
*For a tractor with one compliant semitrailer on the National Network. Other combinations, trailers, projecting loads and local access have separate limits; see the state measurements below.
Interstate weight: 80,000 lb*
*Federal baseline, subject to the bridge formula, registration and postings: 20,000 lb single axle and 34,000 lb tandem. A particular configuration may have a lower limit; state grandfather allowances need verified spacing and route eligibility.
Legal size
Legal limits are 8′6″ wide and 13′6″ high. Length depends on the vehicle setup. Height alone does not tell you the route has clearance.
Weight limits
Gross weight alone does not settle it in Vermont. Check tire width, axle and group weights and spacing, gross tables, registration, road class, bridge postings and the route.
Width
Legal width is 8′6″, with some exceptions. Wider loads need a permit.
Height
Legal height is 13′6″. Taller loads need a permit and a clearance review.
Axle limits with a permit
With a permit: single-wheel axle (steer) 12,000 lb, each axle with dual wheels 20,000 lb. Legal axle limits come from 23 V.S.A. § 1391 and differ on the Interstate; see the legal axle weights card. No wheel may put more than 600 lb per inch of tire width on the road (manufacturer's tire width). DMV can review single-trip weight permits up to 150,000 lb in-house when the axles carry no more than these rates; over the formula the request is denied, and further consideration may need more information or an engineering review. Annual blanket permits (nondivisible loads): 12,000 lb on the steering axle and 20,000 lb on all other axles; 5-axle combination 92,000 lb, 6 or more axles 108,000 lb.
Maximum overhang
On a single-trip permit, overhang may not exceed one-third of the load's length, and no long load may drag on the road.
Interstate length rules
On the Interstates, qualifying federal-aid highways and within 1 mile of the Interstate, tractor-semitrailers have no overall length limit, unless VTrans finds a road unsafe: Semitrailer in a tractor-semitrailer: 53′ max. Each trailer in a double: 28′ max.
Check your own clearances
The applicant must check structure heights on the route. Traffic lights at 14′ help set the height DMV allows, and older signals can sag lower.
Legal axle weights
Legal axle limits without a permit: Off the Interstate: single axle 22,400 lb and tandem 36,000 lb, each with a 10% tolerance. Interstate: single axle 20,000 lb and tandem 34,000 lb, no tolerance, unless a permit is issued under 23 V.S.A. § 1400.
- 02Requirements
Where each requirement starts
Pilot carsWidth over 12′12′ wide or more: 1 escort, in front on undivided highways and behind on divided highways. DMV can require more.
11Vermont DMV — Permitting Rules (Rule 14-050-019) · checked Oct 13, 2026What official sources leave open18
Where Vermont’s official sources disagree or say nothing, confirm with the agency before dispatch.
- Holiday list conflict: the DMV Permitting Rules page (Rule 14-050-019 text, page dated April 14, 2026) also lists Veteran's Day (November 11); the newer Saturday, Sunday & Holiday Restrictions page (October 5, 2026) and the older CVO-110 PDF (07/2022) list only six holidays. The newer list is used here; Nov 11, 2026 is a Wednesday, so confirm with DMV before moving a load over 12′ wide, 100′ long or 108,000 lb that day.
- Weekend rule conflict: the Holiday page, Rules page and CVO-110 ban weekend/holiday permits over 108,000 lb, over 12′ wide or over 100′ long; DMV's FAQ (October 2026 pages) says over 10′6″ wide and also bans Friday afternoons from July 1 to Labor Day. The FAQ Friday-afternoon rule is not in the rules.
- Holiday scope: CVO-110 limits the holiday ban to loads over 108,000 lb, 12′ wide or 100′ long, but the Holiday page adds 'no movement is allowed on these days' and the FAQ says 'No movement is allowed on holidays observed by the State of Vermont' without size limits.
- Permit term conflict: 23 V.S.A. § 1402(f) and CVO-110 say single-trip permits are valid seven business days; DMV's FAQ says 10 working days.
- Superload wording conflict: CVO-110 says more than 14′ high and more than 100′ long; DMV's FAQ says 14′ or higher and 100′ or longer.
- Insurance triggers differ by source: § 1402 requires it at 150,000 lb or more, 15′ or more wide or high, or 100′ or more long; DMV's FAQ says Super Load requests and blanket permits 100′ or longer.
- Fee conflict: the CVO-104 survey form (08/2017) says a $40 permit fee; § 1402(a) sets $48 per single-trip permit.
- DMV's FAQ points to a Super Load application form CVO-106, but the DMV permits pages fetched link only CVO-104 (Engineering Survey) for route surveys.
- No height pole rule or pole-car height threshold is published.
- No escort driver certification, training or reciprocity rule is published.
- No fixed size threshold for police escorts; DMV decides per permit.
- No legal front or rear overhang limit was found in the fetched statutes or DMV rules.
- No maximum permitted width, height, length or gross weight for single-trip permits is published, except the manufactured-home limits and engineering-inspection triggers.
- No USDOT number or operating-authority requirement is stated for permits; DMV ties permits to registration (and IRP/IFTA where applicable).
- Farm-dealer flag size conflict: 23 V.S.A. § 1431(b) says at least 12-inch red flags and no operation after 10:00 a.m. on Sundays or legal holidays (except trips of 2 miles or less); DMV's farm dealer page and CVO-110 say 18-inch flags and no operation on legal holidays.
- No published state bridge or vertical-clearance map for OS/OW routing was found; the applicant must check clearances.
- vthaulpass.vermont.gov returned HTTP 200, but its TLS certificate chain failed verification in curl and WebFetch (likely a missing intermediate certificate), so the tools list links to the DMV permits page that links to it.
- Sign triggers differ: the DMV Permitting Rules page (April 14, 2026) also requires OVERSIZE LOAD signs on single vehicles over 46′; CVO-110 (07/2022) lists only over 8′6″ wide, over 13′6″ high and over 75′ long.
The rule in full5 official sources
Width 8′6″: Legal width
Up to 8′6″ wide moves without a permit; wider needs one.
Width 12′: 1 escort
12′ wide or more: 1 escort, in front on undivided highways and behind on divided highways. DMV can require more.
Width 12′: Weekend & holiday ban
Over 12′ wide: DMV issues no permits for state-highway moves on Saturdays, Sundays or the listed holidays.
Width 15′: Engineering inspection
15′ wide or more on state or Interstate highways: an engineering inspection of the route and its structures is required before the permit.
Height 13′6″: Legal height
Up to 13′6″ high moves without a permit; taller needs one.
Height 14′: Engineering inspection
Over 14′ high on state or Interstate highways: engineering inspection required. DMV's FAQ words it as 14′ or higher.
Height 15′: Insurance certificate
15′ or more wide or high, or 150,000 lb or more: file a special certificate of insurance before the permit is issued.
Length 46′: Single-vehicle legal length
A single vehicle (no trailer) over 46′ long needs a permit.
Length 75′: Combination legal length
A vehicle with a trailer up to 75′ overall needs no permit; longer needs a permit. On the Interstate, tractor-trailers have no overall limit (see Interstate length rules).
Length 80′: 1 escort
80′ long or more: 1 escort, in front on undivided highways and behind on divided highways. DMV can require more.
Length 100′: Engineering inspection
Over 100′ long on state or Interstate highways: engineering inspection required. DMV's FAQ words it as 100′ or longer.
Length 100′: Weekend & holiday ban
Over 100′ long: DMV issues no permits for state-highway moves on Saturdays, Sundays or the listed holidays.
Weight 80,000 lb: Legal gross
Over 80,000 lb gross needs a permit. Axle limits and the axle-spacing table can set a lower legal gross.
Weight 108,000 lb: Weekend & holiday ban
Over 108,000 lb: DMV issues no permits for state-highway moves on Saturdays, Sundays or the listed holidays.
Weight 150,000 lb: Superload engineering inspection
150,000 lb or more on state or Interstate highways: an engineering inspection of the route and its structures is required before the permit.
- 03The permit
Which permit do you need?
- Vermont DMV permits cover state highways and only the town highways named.
- Get separate permission from towns, posted roads, utilities and other road owners.
Superload engineering inspection15′ W · 14′ H · 100′ L · 150,000 lb
On state and Interstate highways, an engineering inspection of the route and its structures is required when the load meets any of these:
- 15′ wide or more
- More than 14′ high (DMV FAQ: 14′ or higher)
- More than 100′ long (DMV FAQ: 100′ or longer)
- 150,000 lb or more
- Takes up to 10 working days from a complete request
- Valid 6 months on the approved route for the same or a smaller load
Engineering inspection fees$300 to $10,000
The inspection fee is added to the permit, and the study must be finished before the permit is issued:
- Manufactured home: $300
- All other loads under 150,000 lb: $800 for up to 8 hours, plus $60 for each extra hour
- 150,000–200,000 lb: $2,000
- Over 200,000 to 250,000 lb: $5,000
- Over 250,000 lb: $10,000
Overweight single-trip review20,000 lb per dual axle
Up to 150,000 lb, DMV can handle the permit in-house if the axles spread the weight at no more than:
- 20,000 lb per axle with dual wheels
- 12,000 lb per axle with single wheels (usually the steer axle)
- If the weight is more than that formula covers, the request is denied; further consideration may need more information or an engineering review
Annual blanket permit limits12′6″ W · 14′ H · 108,000 lb
Annual blanket permits for nondivisible loads statewide stay within:
- 12′6″ wide when 75′ long or less; 10′6″ wide when over 75′ up to 100′
- 14′ high
- 108,000 lb by axles and spacing: 5-axle combination 92,000 lb, 6 or more axles 108,000 lb
- Single vehicle (no trailer): 46′
- 100′ or longer: file a special certificate of insurance
- Expires with the vehicle's registration
Single-trip permit term7 business days
A single-trip permit is valid for seven business days. DMV's FAQ says 10 working days; the statute says seven.
723 V.S.A. § 1402 — Overweight, width, height, and length permits; fees · checked Oct 13, 2026VT Haul Pass online permitsApply, pay, receive online
VT Haul Pass is DMV's online system to apply for, pay for and receive oversize/overweight permits, including emergency moves after hours and annual permits.
10Vermont DMV — Commercial Vehicle Operations · checked Oct 13, 2026Town highway permitsTown permit beyond blanket size
On town highways other than class 1, who issues the permit depends on the load:
- Overweight on town highways and bridges (except class 1): apply to the town's legislative body
- Over statutory size but within blanket-permit size: DMV can issue
- Over blanket-permit size: the town issues the permit
- Engineering-inspection applications need written approval from the select board when town roads are used
Direct routing for through movesDirect route only
DMV routes loads on the most direct suitable route. A load can be routed through Vermont off the direct route only if a state on the direct route denied it; send that state's signed denial letter with the application.
- A higher engineering or permit fee in another state is not a reason, and such requests are denied
Official route and permit tools- DMV oversize/overweight permits (VT Haul Pass)Links to VT Haul Pass (vthaulpass.vermont.gov) to apply, pay and receive permits online, plus permit types and forms
- Saturday, Sunday & Holiday RestrictionsCurrent DMV holiday list
- Town highways & bridges weight restrictionsTown postings and local permit contacts
- Smugglers Notch (VT 108) length banNo single vehicles over 40′ or combinations over 45′
- CVO-110 permit rulesFull rules for blanket, single-trip, crane and superload permits
- Single Trip Permit application (CVO-127)Paper single-trip application
- Engineering Survey application (CVO-104)For loads needing a route survey
- Blanket Permit application (CVO-122)Annual over-dimension/overweight blanket permit
The rule in full6 official sources
Roads & authorities
Vermont DMV permits cover state highways and only the town highways named. Get separate permission from towns, posted roads, utilities and other road owners.
When a permit is needed
Loads over legal size or weight need a single-trip, blanket, low-bed or special excess-weight permit. A single-trip permit lasts seven business days unless the permit says less.
Larger-load engineering review
Vermont DMV lists engineering review at 150,000 lb or more, 100′ long or longer, 15′ wide or wider, or 14′ high or higher. Submit the vehicle configuration and exact route for review before the permit is issued.
Superload engineering inspection
On state and Interstate highways, an engineering inspection of the route and its structures is required when the load meets any of these: 15′ wide or more. More than 14′ high (DMV FAQ: 14′ or higher). More than 100′ long (DMV FAQ: 100′ or longer). 150,000 lb or more. Takes up to 10 working days from a complete request. Valid 6 months on the approved route for the same or a smaller load.
Engineering inspection fees
The inspection fee is added to the permit, and the study must be finished before the permit is issued: Manufactured home: $300. All other loads under 150,000 lb: $800 for up to 8 hours, plus $60 for each extra hour. 150,000–200,000 lb: $2,000. Over 200,000 to 250,000 lb: $5,000. Over 250,000 lb: $10,000.
Overweight single-trip review
Up to 150,000 lb, DMV can handle the permit in-house if the axles spread the weight at no more than: 20,000 lb per axle with dual wheels. 12,000 lb per axle with single wheels (usually the steer axle). If the weight is more than that formula covers, the request is denied; further consideration may need more information or an engineering review.
- 9Vermont DMV — Single Trip Permit Checked
Annual blanket permit limits
Annual blanket permits for nondivisible loads statewide stay within: 12′6″ wide when 75′ long or less; 10′6″ wide when over 75′ up to 100′. 14′ high. 108,000 lb by axles and spacing: 5-axle combination 92,000 lb, 6 or more axles 108,000 lb. Single vehicle (no trailer): 46′. 100′ or longer: file a special certificate of insurance. Expires with the vehicle's registration.
Single-trip permit term
A single-trip permit is valid for seven business days. DMV's FAQ says 10 working days; the statute says seven.
VT Haul Pass online permits
VT Haul Pass is DMV's online system to apply for, pay for and receive oversize/overweight permits, including emergency moves after hours and annual permits.
Town highway permits
On town highways other than class 1, who issues the permit depends on the load: Overweight on town highways and bridges (except class 1): apply to the town's legislative body. Over statutory size but within blanket-permit size: DMV can issue. Over blanket-permit size: the town issues the permit. Engineering-inspection applications need written approval from the select board when town roads are used.
Direct routing for through moves
DMV routes loads on the most direct suitable route. A load can be routed through Vermont off the direct route only if a state on the direct route denied it; send that state's signed denial letter with the application. A higher engineering or permit fee in another state is not a reason, and such requests are denied.
- 04Permit cost
What does the permit cost?
Example agency fee$48- 8′7″ W
- 13′ H
- 70′
- 72,000 lb
- 100 miles
The rule in full2 official sources
Example agency fee
$48 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 Vermont. Enter your own load in the calculator below.
What the fee covers
Vermont uses flat permit-product charges. Moves requiring engineering or special routing need an agency assessment; an ordinary fee is not a complete superload quote. Local permits, escorts, tolls, payment charges and ODPermit services are separate.
- 05Pilot cars
When do you need pilot cars?
WidthLength1 front on two-lane roads and multi-lane undivided roads1 rear on divided highwaysMinimums by size alone. Combined dimensions, night moves and the issued permit can add escorts.
When a pilot car is required12′ W · 80′ L · 15′ overhang
An escort is required at or above any of these, or whenever DMV requires one:
- 12′ wide or more
- 80′ long or more
- Overhang of 15′ or more
- One escort: ahead of the load on undivided highways, behind it on divided highways
- DMV may require two or more escorts
Escort vehicle equipmentAmber light · 5′ sign · radio
The escort vehicle must be at least compact-car size and have:
- Two-way radio contact with the load at all times
- A flashing amber light above its highest point, or lights visible from 360 degrees
- OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the front of a lead car or the rear of a chase car: 10″ black letters (1¼″ stroke) on yellow, at least 5′ long and 12″ high
- Signs covered or removed when not escorting
- Low-beam headlights on during all moves
Police escortsAt DMV's discretion
DMV may require one or more police escorts. The police escort reviews the permit restrictions with the drivers, keeps radio contact and controls oncoming traffic.
5Vermont DMV — CVO-110 Rules and Instructions Governing Overweight and Overdimension Vehicle Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026FlaggersMay be required · reflective vests
DMV may require flaggers in reflective vests to protect traffic where the load enters or leaves main highways and where visibility is poor.
11Vermont DMV — Permitting Rules (Rule 14-050-019) · checked Oct 13, 2026Traveling together1,000′ between loads
When two or more permitted vehicles travel together, keep at least 1,000′ between them.
11Vermont DMV — Permitting Rules (Rule 14-050-019) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full2 official sources
When a pilot car is required
An escort is required at or above any of these, or whenever DMV requires one: 12′ wide or more. 80′ long or more. Overhang of 15′ or more. One escort: ahead of the load on undivided highways, behind it on divided highways. DMV may require two or more escorts.
Escort vehicle equipment
The escort vehicle must be at least compact-car size and have: Two-way radio contact with the load at all times. A flashing amber light above its highest point, or lights visible from 360 degrees. OVERSIZE LOAD sign on the front of a lead car or the rear of a chase car: 10″ black letters (1¼″ stroke) on yellow, at least 5′ long and 12″ high. Signs covered or removed when not escorting. Low-beam headlights on during all moves.
Police escorts
DMV may require one or more police escorts. The police escort reviews the permit restrictions with the drivers, keeps radio contact and controls oncoming traffic.
Flaggers
DMV may require flaggers in reflective vests to protect traffic where the load enters or leaves main highways and where visibility is poor.
Traveling together
When two or more permitted vehicles travel together, keep at least 1,000′ between them.
On any oversize move
Vermont can assign two or more escorts for the permitted route. The published statewide dimensional table establishes a one-car minimum, not an upper limit on the crew.
12′ wide or more
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 front pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.
80′ long or more
Two-lane roads: 1 front pilot car. Multi-lane undivided roads: 1 front pilot car. Divided highways: 1 rear pilot car.
- 06Travel hours
When can you move?
30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.- Weekend, holiday and weather limits apply; overweight-only moves can differ.
On state highways, no permits for Saturday, Sunday or holiday moves of loads over 108,000 lb, over 12′ wide or over 100′ long. DMV says no movement is allowed on these days.
- Nov ’2626Thanksgiving Day
- Dec ’2625Christmas Day
- Jan ’271New Year's Day
- May ’2731Memorial Day
- Jul ’274Independence Day
- Sep ’276Labor Day
- Nov ’2725Thanksgiving Day
- Dec ’2725Christmas Day
The rule in full6 official sources
Daylight travel
Oversize loads usually move from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Weekend, holiday, traffic, posted-road and bad-weather limits can stop a move. Overweight-only loads have an exception.
Overweight-only exception
Overweight-only loads that keep up with traffic are an exception to the window from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. The permit's conditions control.
Current route restrictions
Before leaving, check weekend and holiday limits, traffic windows, frost and thaw postings, speed and lane rules, local permissions, visibility and the weather.
Weekend and holiday ban
On state highways, DMV issues no permits for Saturday, Sunday or holiday moves of loads: Over 108,000 lb. Over 12′ wide. Over 100′ long. Holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day. DMV may add limits before and after holidays.
Bad-weather stop
Loads 12′ wide or more, or 80′ long or more, may not travel in: Ice, sleet, freezing rain or slush. Snow heavy enough to stick to the road. Visibility so low the load can't be seen from ¼ mile. If caught out, exit at the first safe place to park off the road until it clears. Loads that needed an engineering review may not travel in inclement weather at all.
Speed and lane limits
Unless the permit sets lower limits: 45 mph on state highways for loads over 90,000 lb, 10′ wide, 13′6″ high or 75′ long. 60 mph maximum on Interstates. Use the right lane where there are two or more lanes each way. Slow loads pull off at the first safe place to let traffic pass.
Time limits and conditions on permits
The single-trip permit form lists time limits DMV can check on your permit: Rutland: no weekday movement 7–9 AM and 3–6 PM. Chester: no weekday movement 6:30–8:30 AM and 2:15–4:30 PM; no movement Fridays Nov 1–Apr 15 after 2:15 PM. Rt. 100/107 when school is in session: no movement before 8:30 AM, 11:30 AM–1 PM or 2:30–5 PM. Other checkable conditions: no Friday-afternoon movement, no weekend movement, notify listed police departments. Police escorts with a blue light on listed routes need 24-hour notice.
Smugglers Notch (VT 108)
Single vehicles over 40′ and combinations over 45′ are banned from the Smugglers Notch section of VT 108. Fines start at $10,000.
Weekend and holiday ban
On state highways, no permits for Saturday, Sunday or holiday moves of loads over 108,000 lb, over 12′ wide or over 100′ long. DMV says no movement is allowed on these days. Thanksgiving Day (Nov 26, 2026), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2026), New Year's Day (Jan 1, 2027), Memorial Day (May 31, 2027), Independence Day (Jul 4, 2027), Labor Day (Sep 6, 2027), Thanksgiving Day (Nov 25, 2027), Christmas Day (Dec 25, 2027).
Observed weekday holidays
DMV's FAQ: a holiday on Saturday is observed the Friday before, and a holiday on Sunday the Monday after; those days are restricted like the holiday. Independence Day (observed) (Jul 5, 2027), Christmas Day (observed) (Dec 24, 2027), New Year's Day 2028 (observed) (Dec 31, 2027).
- 07Flags & lamps
Signs, flags and lights
Flags on the load18″ red or orange flags
Every oversize load flies bright or fluorescent red or orange flags at least 18″ x 18″:
- On all four corners of an oversize vehicle or load, plus the widest points of irregular loads
- Overhang over 4′: one flag at the end if under 2′ wide, two if 2′ wide or more
- Commercial motor vehicles need working lights on projecting loads per 49 CFR 393.11
OVERSIZE LOAD signs7′ x 18″ front and rear
An OVERSIZE LOAD sign goes on the front-most and rear-most part of the load or vehicle when it is:
- Over 8′6″ wide
- Over 13′6″ high
- Over 75′ long
- Over 46′ for a single vehicle
- Yellow with black 10″ letters (1¼″ stroke), at least 7′ x 18″; a similar sign legal in other states is accepted
- Cover or remove the sign when not making an oversize move
Amber light on the truckFlashing amber on top
Every over-dimension single-trip move needs a flashing amber light above the highest point of the towing vehicle.
5Vermont DMV — CVO-110 Rules and Instructions Governing Overweight and Overdimension Vehicle Permits · checked Oct 13, 2026Parked oversize loadsName and 24-hour phone
An oversize load parked away from its origin or destination must clearly show the name and phone number of someone who can move or secure it at any hour.
11Vermont DMV — Permitting Rules (Rule 14-050-019) · checked Oct 13, 2026The rule in full3 official sources
Signs, flags and lights
Use 18-inch red or orange flags, OVERSIZE LOAD signs front and rear, and lights on projecting loads. Escorts need lights and radios. Secure the load and follow CVO-110's weather, speed and route rules.
Flags on the load
Every oversize load flies bright or fluorescent red or orange flags at least 18″ x 18″: On all four corners of an oversize vehicle or load, plus the widest points of irregular loads. Overhang over 4′: one flag at the end if under 2′ wide, two if 2′ wide or more. Commercial motor vehicles need working lights on projecting loads per 49 CFR 393.11.
OVERSIZE LOAD signs
An OVERSIZE LOAD sign goes on the front-most and rear-most part of the load or vehicle when it is: Over 8′6″ wide. Over 13′6″ high. Over 75′ long. Over 46′ for a single vehicle. Yellow with black 10″ letters (1¼″ stroke), at least 7′ x 18″; a similar sign legal in other states is accepted. Cover or remove the sign when not making an oversize move.
Amber light on the truck
Every over-dimension single-trip move needs a flashing amber light above the highest point of the towing vehicle.
Parked oversize loads
An oversize load parked away from its origin or destination must clearly show the name and phone number of someone who can move or secure it at any hour.
- 08Driver paperwork
What the driver carries
- Carry the permitCarry the permit or an allowed copy, the route map, and every local, insurance, utility or engineering attachment the permit requires.
- Paperwork must matchThe driver's papers must match the registrant, truck and trailer, route, dates, dimensions, axle diagram and permit type.
- Carry the permitCarry the permit in the truck on paper or in electronic form.
- Registration and reciprocityBefore DMV issues a permit: The vehicle must be registered for the maximum legal weight for its class.
- Special insurance certificateFile a special certificate of insurance ($250,000 one person, $500,000 two or more, $250,000 property damage) when the load is: 150,000 lb or more.
- Engineering inspection packetAn engineering inspection request must include: Diagram with tire size, axle spacing, axle weights and dimensions.
Carry the permitPaper or electronic
Carry the permit in the truck on paper or in electronic form. Showing it on a phone or tablet is not, by itself, consent for an officer to look at the rest of the device. Fine: $150.
1723 V.S.A. § 1455 — Carrying of permits in the permitted motor vehicle · checked Oct 13, 2026Registration and reciprocityRegister to max legal weight
Before DMV issues a permit:
- The vehicle must be registered for the maximum legal weight for its class
- Out-of-state vehicles get overweight permits only if their state or province gives Vermont vehicles the same
Special insurance certificate$250k / $500k / $250k
File a special certificate of insurance ($250,000 one person, $500,000 two or more, $250,000 property damage) when the load is:
- 150,000 lb or more
- 15′ or more wide or high
- 100′ or more long
Engineering inspection packetDiagram · route map · approvals
An engineering inspection request must include:
- Diagram with tire size, axle spacing, axle weights and dimensions
- Exact route numbers and directions, plus a map if town roads are used
- Exact mileage from origin to the state highway and from the state highway to destination
- Letters from all utilities involved
- Written approval from the select board when town roads are used
- Special certificate of insurance naming DMV as certificate holder
The rule in full5 official sources
Carry the permit
Carry the permit or an allowed copy, the route map, and every local, insurance, utility or engineering attachment the permit requires.
Paperwork must match
The driver's papers must match the registrant, truck and trailer, route, dates, dimensions, axle diagram and permit type. Include any town approval, utility letter, insurance, engineering or survey attachment.
Carry the permit
Carry the permit in the truck on paper or in electronic form. Showing it on a phone or tablet is not, by itself, consent for an officer to look at the rest of the device. Fine: $150.
Registration and reciprocity
Before DMV issues a permit: The vehicle must be registered for the maximum legal weight for its class. Out-of-state vehicles get overweight permits only if their state or province gives Vermont vehicles the same.
Special insurance certificate
File a special certificate of insurance ($250,000 one person, $500,000 two or more, $250,000 property damage) when the load is: 150,000 lb or more. 15′ or more wide or high. 100′ or more long.
Engineering inspection packet
An engineering inspection request must include: Diagram with tire size, axle spacing, axle weights and dimensions. Exact route numbers and directions, plus a map if town roads are used. Exact mileage from origin to the state highway and from the state highway to destination. Letters from all utilities involved. Written approval from the select board when town roads are used. Special certificate of insurance naming DMV as certificate holder.
- 09Special permits
Special loads and permit programs
Manufactured and modular homes14′ W · 13′6″ H · 90′ L
Single-trip limits for modular and mobile homes:
- Width 14′ or less, height 13′6″ or less, length 90′ or less
- Extra 6″ of eaves overhang allowed if the larger overhang is on the right-hand shoulder side
- Tow vehicle at least 24,000 lb GVWR with dual wheels
Self-propelled cranesSingle trip, approved routes
Cranes count as nondivisible and may travel with counterweights and boom. They need a single-trip permit, issued only for approved routes; other routes need an engineering review with a crane diagram, axle weights, spacing and tire size.
19Vermont DMV — Self Propelled Cranes · checked Oct 13, 2026Low-bed trailer annual permit$275 · 75′ · 12′6″ · 108,000 lb
An annual low-bed permit costs $275 per unit if the rig stays within 75′ long, 12′6″ wide loaded, 108,000 lb and 14′ high. Signs and flags are required over 75′ long or 8′6″ wide.
723 V.S.A. § 1402 — Overweight, width, height, and length permits; fees · checked Oct 13, 2026Farm equipment dealers13′ max · sunrise to sunset
Farm equipment dealers can get an annual over-width permit:
- 13′ maximum width
- Sunrise to sunset only
- No legal-holiday travel except trips of 2 miles or less
- Two 18″ red or orange flags on the left front and rear, visible from 500′
Emergency movesAfter hours: 802-244-8727
Emergency permits are for a calamity needing immediate action, not job delays. When DMV is closed, call the Department of Public Safety Central Communications Center at 802-244-8727; a permit number must be issued before the move.
21Vermont DMV — Emergency Moves · checked Oct 13, 2026Special excess weight (divisible)Annual · up to 99,000 lb
An annual permit for divisible loads on state highways, by truck configuration:
- 3-axle straight truck: 60,000 lb
- 4-axle straight truck: 69,000 lb
- 90,000 lb: meet the § 1392(4) axle table
- 99,000 lb: 6 or more axles, 51′ between extreme axles, registered to 80,000 lb
The rule in full7 official sources
Special permits
Low-bed, special excess-weight, manufactured housing, utility, farm and self-propelled moves each have their own eligibility and route conditions. None is exempt from posted or local limits.
Manufactured and modular homes
Single-trip limits for modular and mobile homes: Width 14′ or less, height 13′6″ or less, length 90′ or less. Extra 6″ of eaves overhang allowed if the larger overhang is on the right-hand shoulder side. Tow vehicle at least 24,000 lb GVWR with dual wheels.
Self-propelled cranes
Cranes count as nondivisible and may travel with counterweights and boom. They need a single-trip permit, issued only for approved routes; other routes need an engineering review with a crane diagram, axle weights, spacing and tire size.
- 19Vermont DMV — Self Propelled Cranes Checked
Low-bed trailer annual permit
An annual low-bed permit costs $275 per unit if the rig stays within 75′ long, 12′6″ wide loaded, 108,000 lb and 14′ high. Signs and flags are required over 75′ long or 8′6″ wide.
Farm equipment dealers
Farm equipment dealers can get an annual over-width permit: 13′ maximum width. Sunrise to sunset only. No legal-holiday travel except trips of 2 miles or less. Two 18″ red or orange flags on the left front and rear, visible from 500′.
Emergency moves
Emergency permits are for a calamity needing immediate action, not job delays. When DMV is closed, call the Department of Public Safety Central Communications Center at 802-244-8727; a permit number must be issued before the move.
- 21Vermont DMV — Emergency Moves Checked
Special excess weight (divisible)
An annual permit for divisible loads on state highways, by truck configuration: 3-axle straight truck: 60,000 lb. 4-axle straight truck: 69,000 lb. 90,000 lb: meet the § 1392(4) axle table. 99,000 lb: 6 or more axles, 51′ between extreme axles, registered to 80,000 lb.
Price your Vermont loadAgency fees and pilot-car needs for your loaded rig. Free, no contact details.Open worksheet
VT / Permit worksheet
Price your Vermont 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 Vermont 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.
- 01
- 02
- 03
- 04
- 05Vermont DMV — CVO-110 Rules and Instructions Governing Overweight and Overdimension Vehicle Permits
Blanket Permits (Maximum Limits; Permission from Cities/Towns; Maximum Weight; Maximum Height); Single Trip Permits (Permits for Weight; Special Size Restrictions; Towing Vehicle; Routings; Direct Routing; Police Escort; Figure 1); Superloads/Engineering Inspections
Source record: - 0623 V.S.A. § 1400 — Permit to operate in excess of weight and size limits; State highways
§ 1400(a), (e)
Source record: - 0723 V.S.A. § 1402 — Overweight, width, height, and length permits; fees
§ 1402(a) engineering inspection and insurance; (b)(1) overlength; (e) low-bed; (f) duration
Source record: - 08Vermont DMV — Super Load thresholds requiring engineering review
Published Super Load review thresholds
Source record:
All 24 references
- 09
- 10Vermont DMV — Commercial Vehicle Operations
Commercial Vehicles Overview (VT Haul Pass)
Source record: - 11Vermont DMV — Permitting Rules (Rule 14-050-019)
Hours of Operation; Saturday, Sunday, and Holiday Operations; Inclement Weather; Speed; Flaggers; Signs; Flags/Lights; Escort Vehicle Requirements; Convoy Operations; Use of Travel Lanes; Parked Oversize Loads; Carrying Permits
Source record: - 12Vermont DMV — Saturday, Sunday & Holiday Restrictions
Saturday, Sunday & Holiday Restrictions (page dated October 5, 2026)
Source record: - 13Vermont DMV — CVO-127 Single Trip Permit application
Department use only — special regulations checklist
Source record: - 14
- 15Vermont DMV — Blanket Permit - Annual (FAQs)
FAQs: turn-around time; Engineering Survey validity; Super Load; certificate of insurance; when loads may move
Source record: - 16Vermont Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Guide
Vermont Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Guide
Source record: - 17
- 18
- 19
- 20Vermont DMV — Farm Equipment Dealer Permits
Hours of Operation; Maximum Width; Flag Requirements
Source record: - 21
- 22
- 2323 CFR 658 Appendix B — National Network semitrailer lengths
Appendix B; 23 CFR 658.13(a)
Source record: - 2423 CFR 658.17 — Interstate gross, axle and bridge weights
23 CFR 658.17(a)–(e); grandfather exceptions are configuration-specific
Source record: