Iowa Oversize permits and Overweight Trucking Permits
Iowa Oversize Permits , Freight Brokerage Service & Trucking Company IA
Iowa Oversize permits OR Iowa 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.
Iowa oversize permit phone number: 630-222-5770
Chicago Permit is your go-to source for Iowa oversize permits, Iowa overweight permits, and Iowa DOT permit online services. We help with Iowa Single Trip Permits, Iowa Annual Permits, Iowa trip and fuel permits, and guide you through all Iowa oversize load regulations and Iowa oversize provisions. Need Iowa Iowa trucking permits or services? Call now, we make Iowa permitting fast and affordable.
At Chicago Permit, we proudly serve Iowa with complete trucking and
logistics solutions from freight brokerage and fleet trucking to oversize permit
services, all under one roof. Established in 2018, we began as a trusted freight
brokerage company connecting shippers and carriers across the U.S. and Canada.
Over the years, our commitment to reliability and customer satisfaction has
helped us grow into a full-service logistics provider. Today, we proudly operate
as a licensed freight broker, trucking company, and oversize permit agency,
ensuring every shipment moves safely, legally, and efficiently.
If you need Iowa Oversize or Overweight Permits, our experienced team of over
100 permit specialists are ready to assist you every step of the way. We help truckers
stay compliant with Iowa’s transportation regulations by providing quick access
to superload permits, trip permits, annual permits, temporary tags, fuel/mileage
tax permits, and IFTA/IRP trip permits. Our specialists ensure every detail from legal
dimensions and escort requirements to restricted routes and travel hours is handled
with precision.
Iowa oversize regulations
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Length in Iowa | A 53 feet semi-trailer with its load is the maximum allowed. Any overhang that causes the total length to exceed 53 feet is not permitted without a special permit. This rule applies regardless of the cargo type, including steel pipes, beams, and construction supplies. |
| Legal Width | The maximum width allowed is 8 feet 6 inches. |
| Legal Height | The maximum legal height is 13 feet 6 inches. |
| Maximum Allowable Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 pounds, subject to axle configuration. |
| Axle Weight Limits in Iowa |
• Single Axle: Up to 20,000 pounds • Tandem Axle: Up to 34,000 pounds • Tridem Axle Group: Up to 42,000 pounds (requires at least 8 feet 1 inch spacing between axles) |
Iowa Routine Limit: Iowa Oversize and Overweight Limits
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Dimensions |
• Maximum Length: Up to 120 feet • Maximum Width: Up to 18 feet • Maximum Height: Up to 18 feet |
| Maximum Axle Weights with Iowa Overweight Permit |
• Steer Axle Weight: Permit regulations do not provide separate limits for steer axles. Enforcement is based on the tire’s load rating (as printed on the tire sidewall) multiplied by two. Additionally, the vehicle must have a license that covers the permitted weight within Iowa. • Single Axle: Up to 20,000 pounds • Tandem Axle: Up to 46,000 pounds • Tridem Axle: Up to 60,000 pounds • Quad Axle: Up to 80,000 pounds |
| Superload Classification | Any load exceeding the above permitted dimensions or weights is classified as a Superload. |
Iowa oversize permits validity period
To operate legally in Iowa, 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 Iowa trucking permits, including oversize, overweight, superload, IRP, IFTA, TRP, and temporary trip and fuel permits.
| Permit Type | Validity | Purpose / Function | Additional Information / Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oversize/Overweight Single Trip Permit | 5 consecutive days | Authorizes one movement of an oversize or overweight load between two locations. | — |
| Round Trip Permit | 5 consecutive days | Covers both outbound and return trips for the same load configuration within the validity period. | — |
| Multi-Trip Permit | 60 days | Allows unlimited trips between two specified points along a designated route. | Ideal for repeated transport of similar loads on the same route (e.g., between a plant and a distribution center). |
| Annual Oversize/Overweight Permit | 12 months | Enables unlimited trips statewide within Iowa for specific dimensions and weights. | Not valid for all load types or axle configurations; applies only within specific limits (e.g., height up to 15'5\", width up to 12'6\"). |
| IRP Trip Permit (International Registration Plan) | 72 hours | Required for out-of-state registered vehicles not apportioned for Iowa. | Provides temporary registration authority to enter Iowa without full IRP credentials. |
| IFTA Trip Permit (International Fuel Tax Agreement) | 72 hours | Needed for carriers not licensed under IFTA but operating in Iowa. | Serves as a temporary fuel tax compliance permit without an IFTA license. |
| Fuel Permit (Temporary Fuel Use Tax Permit) | 72 hours | For vehicles without IFTA credentials; allows legal fuel usage in Iowa during the permit period. | — |
| Route Approval / Bridge Analysis Permit | Validity varies | Required for superloads or loads exceeding certain limits. | Applies when load exceeds: Length 120 ft, Width 18 ft, Height 18 ft, Weight 250,000 lbs. Ensures the route is structurally capable of handling the load. |
| Superload Permit | Typically 5 days (must be confirmed per load) | For vehicles or loads exceeding routine permit limits. | Requires engineering review and specific route authorization. |
| Tow Truck Permit | Usually tied to a single incident and route | For oversized towing operations involving disabled commercial vehicles. | — |
Operating Time Iowa:
Trucks measuring up to 100 feet long, 11 feet wide, and 14 feet 6 inches high, and staying within legal axle weight limits, may operate at any time day or night, throughout the week as long as the roadway offers a minimum width of 22 feet and includes at least one full travel lane in each direction. Additionally, proper safety lighting must be used as specified in the provisions sheet. Oversized loads may travel from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset, including weekends.
Restricted Travel Iowa:
Travel on I-235 in Des Moines is prohibited Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Other highways within Des Moines may also be restricted at the discretion of local authorities during periods of high traffic volume. Be sure to verify any travel restrictions during holidays or holiday weekends.
Tire Requirements for Oversize Loads
- Tires must be in safe operating condition, properly inflated, and meet minimum tread depth requirements.
- The maximum allowable weight per inch of tire width is 575 pounds, or 600 pounds for steer tires.
- Tires must not have protrusions made of any material other than rubber or tire chains, unless specifically approved or required for safety.
Note: From November 1 through April 1, studded tires are permitted, provided that the studs do not extend more than 1/16 of an inch beyond the tread.
Iowa Escort Requirement
| Length-Based Requirements | Overhang-Based Requirements | Height-Based Requirements | Width-Based Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| For All Highways | For All Highways | For All Highways | For Four-Lane Roads |
| Loads exceeding 85 feet require one escort or an amber rotating light | Front overhang over 25 feet or rear overhang over 10 feet requires one escort or a revolving amber/strobe light at the rear of the load | Loads taller than 14 feet 6 inches must be accompanied by an escort equipped with a high pole. | Width between 14 feet 6 inches and 16 feet 6 inches requires one rear escort or two strobe/amber lights (one on the front power unit and one on the rearmost point of the load or vehicle) |
| Loads over 120 feet one escort is mandatory | Width exceeding 16 feet 6 inches one escort is required. | ||
| For Two-Lane Roads | |||
| Width greater than half the roadway (up to 14 feet 6 inches) requires one front escort | |||
| Width exceeding 14 feet 6 inches one escort is mandatory. | |||
| As an alternative to an escort, vehicles may use amber or strobe lights (placed on both the power unit and the rearmost edge of the load) when the width exceeds half the roadway, if the lane is at least 12 feet wide and has adequate shoulders |
Iowa Banners, Lighting & Flage Requirement
Oversize Load” signs and red or fluorescent orange flags are required when the vehicle or load exceeds 75 feet in length, 8 feet 6 inches in width, or 14 feet 4 inches in height. Loads with more than 4 feet of rear overhang must display flags. Flags must be attached to the front corners of the towing unit, the rear corners of the load, and at the widest points or any projections. An amber rotating light minimum 7 inches in height and 7 inches in diameter must be used when the overall length exceeds 85 feet, the front overhang is more than 25 feet, or the rear overhang is over 10 feet (the light must be mounted at the rear of the load). If preferred, an escort vehicle may be used instead of an amber light.
Additional Information
Miscellaneous Load Provisions: When only the dimensions of a load exceed legal limits, there is no requirement to remove items such as blades, buckets, or counterweights. However, if the load also exceeds weight limits, these attachments must be transported separately.
Iowa Oversize Overweight Fee structure
Iowa 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:
Here’s your information neatly converted into a clear, organized, and easy-to-understand table — all details and headings are fully included and formatted professionally for readability:
Iowa Permit and Vehicle Fee Structure
| Category | Permit / Fee Type | Fee Amount | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oversize/Overweight (OS/OW) Permit Fees | Single Trip Oversize/Overweight Permit | $35.00 | Authorizes one movement of an oversize/overweight load. |
| Annual Oversize Permit | $50.00 | Valid for unlimited oversize trips within one year. | |
| Annual Oversize & Overweight Permit | $400.00 | Covers both oversize and overweight loads for one year. | |
| All-Systems Oversize Permit | $160.00 | Allows oversize movements on all highway systems. | |
| All-Systems Overweight Permit | $500.00 | Allows overweight movements on all highway systems. | |
| Vehicle Title and Registration Fees | Title Fee | $35.00 | Charged for issuing a vehicle title. |
| Lien Recording Fee | $20.00 | Applicable when recording a lien on a vehicle title. | |
| Fee for New Registration | $10.00 + 5% of the vehicle’s purchase or lease price | Applies to newly registered vehicles. |
| Category | Permit / Fee Type | Fee Amount | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Fees | — | — | Based on vehicle’s weight, list price, and model year. Vehicles 12 years or older are typically charged a flat rate of $50/year, with some exceptions. |
| Temporary and Miscellaneous Permit Fees | Non-Resident Motor Truck Display Permit | $10.00 | Required for non-resident motor trucks displayed in Iowa. |
| In-Transit Permit | $2.00 | Temporary permit for vehicle movement during transfer or sale. | |
| Additional Trip-Based Permit Options | Single Trip Temporary Permit | $10.00 | Authorizes one temporary trip. |
| Annual Permit | $25.00 | Valid for multiple trips within a year under specific conditions. | |
| Annual Oversize/Overweight (OS/OW) Permit | $300.00 | Annual authorization for both oversize and overweight travel. |
Iowa Oversize Provisions Sheet Requirement
General Provisions of an Oversize/Overweight Vehicle Permit
In Iowa, a “required provision sheet” essentially refers to the specific requirements and restrictions outlined on an oversize/overweight (OSOW) permit issued by the Iowa Department of Revenue. This sheet details the conditions under which a vehicle can legally operate on Iowa roads when exceeding standard size and weight limitations.
Iowa Freight Brokerage Service In Iowa
At Chicago Permit, we proudly serve as a licensed and bonded freight brokerage company connecting shippers and carriers across the United States and Canada. Our expert logistics team specializes in Full Truckload (FTL), Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), Intermodal, and Heavy Haul freight arrangements.
With over 15 years of proven experience in the transportation industry, we deliver secure, efficient, and cost-effective logistics solutions for every type of load ensuring timely pickup and delivery nationwide.
- FMCSA Licensed & Bonded Freight Broker (Cargo Insurance Covered): Chicago Permit is registered under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as a fully licensed and bonded freight broker. Each shipment we manage is covered by comprehensive cargo insurance, ensuring complete protection and compliance with U.S. freight transportation standards.
- U.S. Military-Authorized Freight Broker: We proudly hold Department of Defense (DOD) authorization to handle secure and mission-critical freight. This certification recognizes our dependability, operational excellence, and strict adherence to federal logistics requirements.
- Full-Service Freight Solutions (Operating as Carrier & Broker): As both a carrier and brokerage service, we handle all freight categories, including:
o Full Truckload (FTL)
o Less-Than-Truckload (LTL)
o Intermodal Transport
o Power-Only Hauling
From oversized machinery to urgent, time-sensitive cargo, Chicago Permit ensures reliable, safe, and affordable freight movement throughout North America.
Comprehensive Freight Brokerage & Equipment Handling Table
| Category Type | Category | Details / Types |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Freight Brokerage Divisions | Flatbed Freight Brokers, Dry Van Freight Brokers, Tractor Trailer Brokers, Step Deck Freight Brokers, Conestoga Freight Brokers, Reefer Freight Brokers (Temperature-Controlled Shipments), Intermodal Freight Brokers, Cargo Van Brokers, Sprinter Van Brokers, Box Truck Brokers, Full Truckload (FTL) Brokers, Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Brokers | |
| Equipment We Handle | Power Systems | Generators (Towable, Stationary, Portable, Recreational) |
| Aggregate Equipment | Conveyor/Feeder/Stacker, Crushers, Screens | |
| Air Equipment | Air Compressors | |
| Asphalt & Concrete Machinery | Asphalt Pavers, Cold Planers, Road Wideners, Concrete Mixers, Saws, and Buggies | |
| Compaction Equipment | Smooth Drum Rollers, Padfoot Rollers, Landfill Compactors | |
| Cranes & Lifting Trucks | Boom Trucks, Crawler Cranes, Tower Cranes, Aerial Lifts | |
| Earthmoving Equipment | Dozers, Excavators, Skid Steers, Wheel Loaders | |
| Drilling & Boring | Directional Drills, Boring Machines | |
| Hauling & Dumping | Dump Trucks, Off-Highway Trucks, Dumpers | |
| Forestry Machinery | Feller Bunchers, Harvesters, Mulchers, Wood Chippers | |
| Heating Systems | Portable & Towable Heaters | |
| Lifts & Handling | Forklifts, Telehandlers, Container Handlers, Scissor Lifts, Boom Lifts | |
| Lighting Systems | Light Towers | |
| Road & Grading | Motor Graders, Scrapers, Sweepers, Trenchers | |
| Pipelaying & Water Systems | Pipelayers, Water Trucks & Towers | |
| Pumps | Industrial & Dewatering Pumps | |
| Demolition & Scrap | Demolition Tools, Scrap Handlers | |
| Semi-Trailers | Flatbed, Lowboy, Drop Deck, Tank, Dump Trailers | |
| Agricultural Equipment | Tractors, Tillage Disks | |
| Utility & Miscellaneous | Utility Vehicles, Skip Loaders, Hydroseeders | |
| Attachments We Handle | Arms & Cutters | Asphalt Cutters, Paving Arms |
| Drilling & Augers | Augers, Drills, Post Hole Diggers | |
| Backhoe Attachments | Backhoe Units | |
| Blades | Angle Blades, 6-Way Blades, Moldboards | |
| Booms | Standard Booms | |
| Buckets | General Purpose, Rock, Clamshell, 4-in-1, Severe Duty | |
| Compaction Tools | Compactors | |
| Concrete Tools | Concrete Crushers, Saws | |
| Couplers & Weights | Quick Couplers, Counterweights | |
| Cranes | Jibs, Hook Blocks | |
| Forestry Attachments | Mulchers, Tree Saws, Processors, Tree Spades | |
| Forks | Pallet Forks, Log Forks, Pipe Forks | |
| Grapples | Log, Root, Scrap, Brush Grapples | |
| Hydraulic & Power Tools | Hydraulic Hammers, Magnets | |
| Platforms & Safety Gear | Work Baskets, Safety Platforms | |
| Rakes & Rippers | Root Rakes, Rippers, Scarifiers | |
| Shears | Concrete Shears, Stump Shears, Steel Shears | |
| Snow Equipment | Snow Plows, Snow Blowers | |
| Sweeping Tools | Sweepers | |
| Thumbs & Grips | Hydraulic Thumbs | |
| Undercarriage & Tires | Tracks, Tires, Wheels | |
| Winches & Pullers | Winches | |
| Miscellaneous | Custom & Specialized Attachments |
Frequently Asked Questions
Iowa oversize permits can be obtained online through our website chicagopermit.net or by calling us at 630-222-5770
In Iowa, vehicles or loads exceeding legal dimensions must obtain an oversize or overweight permit before entering or moving within the state. The Iowa DOT enforces specific height, width, length, and weight limitations.
Iowa oversize permits can be obtained online through our website chicagopermit.net or by calling us at 630-222-5770
Yes. Iowa issues 72-hour trip permits for out-of-state carriers and 5-day fuel permits under IFTA.
Yes, if your load exceeds Iowa’s legal dimensions 8 feet 6 inches wide, 13 feet 6 inches high, or over 80,000 pounds gross weight you must obtain an oversize permit.
You can log in to manage your Iowa oversize permit through Our website chicagopermit.net
Typically, Iowa oversize or overweight permits are valid for five calendar days. During this period, permitted vehicles must complete their route as specified.
80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight
Iowa requires oversize permits for loads exceeding:
• Width: 8 feet 6 inches
• Height: 13 feet 6 inches
• Length: 53 feet for semi-trailers on non-designated routes
Weight: 80,000lbs gross, or 20,000lbs per single axle
Permits must be carried in the vehicle at all times.
Yes, you can get Iowa oversize permit online by calling us at 630-222-5770.
Travel with oversize or overweight loads is generally limited to daylight hours from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Night travel may be allowed under special conditions with restrictions.
