California Oversize / Overweight Trucking Permit Regulations
California Oversize permits OR California Overweight Permits are required when a vehicle or its load exceeds the state feet legal size or weight limits and needs to travel on public highways. These permits ensure compliance with safety standards and protect road infrastructure.
California Oversize Permits Contact Number: 630-222-5770
Need California oversize permits or California overweight permits? Chicago Permit is your trusted source for fast, reliable, and affordable permit solutions. Our experienced team helps trucking companies stay compliant with all California oversize permit requirements, ensuring your load moves legally and efficiently across the state.
We handle a wide variety of California DOT permits, including California single trip permits, California annual permits, overhang permits, one trip permit California online, fuel permits, mileage tax permits, temporary tags, superload permits, and California IRP and IFTA permits. Whether you’re looking for a one-time move or recurring transport, we provide accurate and quick assistance with the California oversize permits application and help you access your California oversize permit login with ease.
We handle a wide range of permits, including:
- Oversize and Overweight Permits
- Trip Permits
- Fuel Permits
- IRP and IFTA Permits
- Temporary Tags
- Superload Permits
- Annual and Fuel/Mileage Tax Permits
Need California oversize permits or California overweight permits? Chicago Permit is your trusted source for fast, reliable, and affordable permit solutions. Our experienced team helps trucking companies stay compliant with all California oversize permit requirements, ensuring your load moves legally and efficiently across the state.
We handle a wide variety of California DOT permits, including California single trip permits, California annual permits, overhang permits, one trip permit California online, fuel permits, mileage tax permits, temporary tags, superload permits, and California IRP and IFTA permits. Whether you’re looking for a one-time move or recurring transport, we provide accurate and quick assistance with the California oversize permits application and help you access your California oversize permit login with ease.
California Routine Limit
California Oversize and Overweight Limits
- Maximum Dimensions:
Length: Permits are generally issued for loads up to 135 feet long.
Rear Overhang: If the load’s rear overhang causes the truck and trailer to exceed 75 feet total, California may deny a permit unless the load is moved using a stretch trailer.
Width: Loads up to 15 feet wide are typically eligible for routine permits.
Height: Height allowances depend heavily on the specific route. Overheight loads are not allowed on flatbeds unless the load’s length demands it. - Maximum Axle Weights:
Steering Axle: Up to 12,500 pounds
Single axle: up to 20,000lbs
Tandem axles: up to 46,000lbs
Tridem axles: Between 58,061 to 60,000 pounds
Note: These values may vary depending on axle configuration and roadways. For example:
– A tridem with 9 feet of axle spacing might qualify for 59,168 pounds.
– Spread tandems with axle spacing from 8 to 10 feet 2 inches are capped at 40,000 pounds.
– Tridems with over 10 feet spacing (e.g., 5 feet – 5 feet) are limited to 40,000 pounds max under California rules.
- Superload Classifications: Any load exceeding 15 feet in width, 17 feet in height, or 135 feet in length is classified as a superload and requires special approval procedures, routing, and potentially CHP escorts.
California Legal Dimension Limit
Legal Dimensions for Trucking in California:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Length | Up to 75 feet on most highways; 65 feet on non-designated roads |
| Semitrailers | Maximum legal length is 48 feet |
| 53-foot Trailers | Permitted if kingpin to rear axle ≤ 40 feet |
| Longer Trailers | Allowed only with justified load config or stretch trailer usage |
| Legal Rear Overhang | Up to 10 feet if total length including overhang ≤ 75 feet |
| Legal Width | Maximum width is 8 feet 6 inches |
| Legal Height | Must not exceed 14 feet; loads taller require justification (no flatbeds) |
California Legal Weight Limit
| Axle Type | Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steering Axle | Up to 12,500 pounds | Standard limit |
| Single Axle | Up to 20,000 pounds | Standard legal weight |
| Tandem Axle Group | Up to 34,000 pounds | Standard legal weight |
| Tridem Axle Group | Varies by spacing | Spread tandems 10–10′2″ spacing: 40,000 lbs (20,000 per axle) |
California Oversize Permits Validity Period
To operate legally in California, commercial carriers must secure the appropriate permits based on vehicle size, weight, and registration status. Below is a detailed guide to the validity of all key California trucking permits, including oversize, overweight, superload, IRP, IFTA, TRP, and temporary trip and fuel permits.
| Permit Type | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Single Trip Permit | Valid for 7 consecutive days. | Authorizes a one-time movement of an oversized or overweight load from a single origin to a single destination within California. |
| IRP Trip Permit | Typically, valid for 72 hours to 10 days, depending on the issuing state | Allows out-of-state commercial vehicles not registered under the International Registration Plan (IRP) to operate temporarily in California. |
| IFTA Fuel Trip Permit (CFTP) | Valid for up to 4 consecutive days | Permits out-of-state carriers without an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) license to travel in California for fuel tax purposes. |
| Annual Permit | Valid for one year. | Suitable for carriers frequently transporting oversize or overweight loads along specific routes. |
| Repetitive Permit | Up to 90 days | For repeated transportation of the same load over the same route. |
| Superload Permit | Determined based on specific move requirements | Required for loads exceeding standard oversize or overweight limits. |
| Sea Container Permit | Typically, valid for one year. | Allows transportation of intermodal cargo containers in designated port areas. |
| Variance Permit | Determined by Caltrans based on the move. | For loads that exceed standard dimensions or weight limits beyond what is covered by other permits. |
| City and County Oversize Permits | Varies by local jurisdiction. | Required when transporting oversize loads within specific city or county jurisdictions. |
Operating Time California:
Operating Hours: Generally, continuous travel is permitted as long as no escorts are required for the load, the route avoids state highways, and the vehicle configuration does not exceed a two-unit combination. For nighttime travel, the load must be of lighter weight.
Restricted Travel California
| Restriction Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Restricted Travel Times |
Loads exceeding 10 feet in width cannot travel during: Sacramento, San Francisco, San Diego: - Morning: 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM - Evening: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM Los Angeles Area: - Morning: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM - Afternoon: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge: - Morning: 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM - Evening: 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM |
| Escorts & Special Restrictions |
- CHP escort required for loads wider than 11 feet or higher than standard - Loads over 12 feet wide limited to 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Mon–Fri - Contact: 707-648-4180 for assistance |
| Holiday Travel Restrictions | Apply to larger/more complex oversize loads |
| Seasonal Weight Restrictions |
California does not enforce frost laws like some Canadian provinces. Weather-related limitations may still apply based on permit and load type |
Oversize Restrictions on Roads and Bridges in California
California follows the Federal Bridge Formula to determine bridge weight restrictions. As for road restrictions for oversize loads, the following limitations apply: traveling through construction zones, ignoring warning signals within work areas, and failing to yield to law enforcement, emergency vehicles, or traffic control directives.
Regulations for Oversize Tires
Between November 1 and April 30, pneumatic tires equipped with metallic studs are permitted, provided the metal in contact with the road surface does not exceed 3%. For steering axle tires, the tread depth in all major grooves must be at least 4/32 of an inch. For all other tires on the vehicle’s axles, a minimum tread depth of 2/32 of an inch in all major grooves is required.
California Chain Requirements
In California, when winter weather affects mountain routes, certain vehicles must use tire chains or traction aids to safely navigate snowy or icy roads. These rules help ensure public safety and are monitored by Caltrans and the California Highway Patrol.
Who Needs Chains?
All vehicles, including four-wheel and all-wheel drive, are required to carry chains when entering areas where chain control is in effect. Even if chains are not immediately needed, having them onboard is mandatory.
- Acceptable Traction Devices: Approved equipment includes traditional steel link chains, cable-style chains, automatic tire chains, textile snow covers, and other approved traction tools that fit California’s safety standards.
- Where to Install Chains:
Chains should be installed on the main drive axle.
For front-wheel drive, chains go on the front tires.
Rear-wheel drive vehicles must chain the rear wheels.
When towing a trailer, at least one axle of the towing vehicle must be chained.
If the trailer has brakes, one trailer axle must also have chains.
No chains are required for tag axles. - Tire Tread Rules: For tires marked for snow use (like “M+S” or “Mud and Snow”), a tread depth of at least 6/32 inch is required to meet the standard for chain exemption under certain conditions.
- Types of Chain Control Requirements: California uses three levels of chain enforcement:
R1: Tire chains must be used on all vehicles unless the vehicle is a passenger car or a light-duty truck (weighing less than 6,000 pounds) equipped with snow tires on at least two driven wheels. These vehicles must still carry chains.
R2: Chains are required for all vehicles except four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with snow tires on all wheels. These vehicles must also carry chains.
R3: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles without exception. This is the strictest level. - Driving and Safety Tips:
Install chains only in safe areas do not block the road.
Speed must be reduced when chains are in use maximum speed is usually 25–30 mph.
Caltrans does not sell chains and chain installers operate independently. Keep any receipts and record their badge number if you use their service.
When removing chains, wait until you’ve passed the “End Chain Control” signs and find a safe place to stop.
California Escort Requirement
Length-Based Requirements:
In Los Angeles city, if a vehicle exceeds 100 feet, two escorts are mandatory.
For loads measuring between 120 feet and 135 feet, one or more escorts may be required depending on the route and load type.
Overhangs greater than 30 feet (either front or rear) typically require at least one escort.
Width-Based Requirements:
Any load wider than 12 feet may need one or two escort vehicles, especially on local roads where certain jurisdictions may demand escorts even below this width.
On two-lane highways, widths over 13 feet may require two escorts, depending on the specific road.
On interstate and four-lane highways, if the width exceeds 14 feet 11 inches, two escorts are generally required.
Loads wider than 16 feet, or wider than 15 feet on two-lane roads, may also need a California Highway Patrol (CHP) escort, often involving three CHP units.
Height-Based Requirements:
Loads taller than 18 feet must be accompanied by at least one high-pole escort, which also handles utility clearance and must follow a pre-approved route survey.
CHP escorts may also be required depending on the clearance challenges.
If an escort is required due to height restrictions, this must be clearly mentioned on the permit. Failure to include this information can result in fines.
California Banners, Lighting & Flage Requirement
- Shipping Containers:
Rear overhang is not allowed when loaded.
Up to 5 feet of rear overhang is permitted only when empty.
Overheight shipping containers are not allowed under any circumstance.
Load Components (Buckets, Blades, Counterweights):
These items are not required to be removed.
However, if a blade is detached and carried on the same trailer as a heavily loaded dozer, it must be clearly stated in the permit with wording such as “blade detached and reloaded.” - Tow-Away Units:
Permits are not issued for tow-away operations without either:
– A valid inspection report for the unit.
– A scheduled inspection and permit clearance from Caltrans.
– Unregistered tow-away units also require a temporary California registration, which will be issued after the permit request is submitted. - Four-Axle Tractors:
These must have either a current California inspection report or an official permit and inspection appointment. - Single-Axle Jeeps and Boosters:
These configurations require a Caltrans inspection before any permits can be issued in California. - Trailer Length Restriction Reminder: In California, trailers longer than 48 feet are not legal unless the distance
from the kingpin to the center of the rear axle is 40 feet or less.
Permits for longer trailers are only granted if the load length necessitates it, and the request must be clearly
justified.
Additonal Information
Vehicles that exceed any of the following must be properly marked:
Width: More than 8 feet 6 inches
Length: Over 80 feet
Overhang: Exceeding 10 feet
Requirements include:
Oversize load signs and warning flags are mandatory.
Overweight loads also require proper signage even if they’re within dimension limits.
For Nighttime Travel:
Amber marker lights are required on:
The front corners of the load.
The outermost left corner (visible from the front and sides).
Red lights must be visible from the back corners.
In Los Angeles County, additional amber lights must surround the load and all projections, spaced no more than 5 feet apart, mounted at least 5 feet above ground level.
For rear overhangs of 4 feet or more, a rear light bar or at least two lights is necessary for nighttime visibility.
During the day, a rear light bar is not required unless the turn signals or brake lights are obstructed by the load.
California Oversize / Overweight Fee structure
California Vehicle & Transportation Permit Fees
California offers a variety of vehicle and transportation permits, each with its own fee depending on the type and usage. Below is a breakdown of key permit types and their current associated costs:
| Permit Category | Type/Description | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Permit Fees | California Single Trip Permits | $16.00 |
| California Annual Permits | $90.00 | |
| California Repetitive Permit | $90.00 | |
| Additional Vehicle Permit Types and Fees | Nonresident Commercial Vehicle Trip Permit (REG 41) | $45.00 |
| Nonresident Daily Commuter Permit (REG 150) | $27.00 | |
| One Trip Permit (REG 402) | $27.00 | |
| Temporary Operating Permit | $50.00 | |
| California Highway Patrol (CHP) Fee | $27.00 | |
| Vehicle License Fee (VLF) | 0.65% of vehicle’s current market value | |
| Other Permit Considerations in California | Local Transportation Permits | Varies by city/county |
| Oversize and Overweight Load Permits | Variable — based on load dimensions & duration | |
| City-Specific Business Permits | Varies | |
| Parking Permits (e.g., CSU Long Beach) | Depends on permit & location | |
| Nonresident OHV Use Permit | $30 annually | |
| Special Equipment (SE) License Plates | Separate fees based on classification |
Chicago Permit is the single STOP for all Oversize / Overweight permits with one easy-to-use application.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of an oversize permit in California varies depending on the dimensions and weight of the load. For example, permits for loads exceeding legal dimensions or weights typically start at $15.
Length: Up to 75 feet on most highways.
Overhang: Up to 10 feet rear.
Width: 8 feet 6 inches.
Height: 14 feet.
Weight Limit: Gross vehicle weight is 80,000 pounds.
California oversize permits can be obtained online through our website comparetransportll.com or by calling us at 630-222-5770
A Single Trip Permit for Overweight load is $16.00
California oversize permits can be obtained online through our website chicagopermit.net or by calling us at 630-222-5770
Oversize Permit Fees:
Single Trip Permit: $16.00
Annual Permit: $90.00
Repetitive Permit: $90.00
You can log in to manage your California oversize permit through Our website chicagopermit.net
The official provisions can be found through our website chicagopermit.net available online.
Applications for California oversize permits can be submitted online via our website chicagopermit.net or by calling us at 630-222-5770
The phone number for assistance is 630-222-5770.
Unlike many states and provinces in Canada that implement frost laws, the State of California does not enforce any specific seasonal weight restrictions. However, weather-related limitations may still be included in the California oversize load permits depending on the type and nature of the load being transported.
California uses three levels of chain enforcement:
o R1: Tire chains must be used on all vehicles unless the vehicle is a passenger car or a light-duty truck (weighing less than 6,000 pounds) equipped with snow tires on at least two driven wheels. These vehicles must still carry chains.
o R2: Chains are required for all vehicles except four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with snow tires on all wheels. These vehicles must also carry chains.
o R3: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles without exception. This is the strictest level.
Oversize permits are required for vehicles exceeding 8’6” wide, 14’ high, 65’ long, or 80,000lbs gross weight. Applicants must provide vehicle details, load dimensions, travel routes, and dates, may require escorts, route surveys, and restricted travel times. Local permits may also be needed for city/county roads.
oversize permit Services
