Kentucky Oversize Permits
Kentucky Oversize Permits for commercial truck
Kentucky Oversize permits OR Kentucky 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.
Kentucky oversize permit office phone number: 630-222-5770
Apply easily for Kentucky oversize and overweight permits online through our secure and user-friendly portal. Whether you need a Kentucky Oversize Permit, Kentucky Overweight Permit, or KYU Temporary Permit, we simplify the process to keep your operations moving. In addition to these, our service covers everything from Kentucky Single Trip Permits to Kentucky Annual Permits, ensuring full compliance with Kentucky State Trucking Permit Regulations
Before you begin, you can submit the official Kentucky oversize and overweight permit form online and check the Kentucky oversize and overweight permit cost. Moreover, access your Kentucky oversize permits login or the Kentucky motor carrier portal login anytime to track applications. For carriers needing Kentucky Overhang Permits, Kentucky DOT permits, or a permit for commercial trucks, our experts are here to help.
Need support? Simply contact the Kentucky oversize permit office phone number or the Kentucky oversize permits phone number for direct assistance. Additionally, stay updated on Kentucky oversize regulations and DOT rules while we handle the rest. From Kentucky Oversize Annual Permits to Kentucky DOT oversize permits, we provide reliable, fast service to keep you on the road legally and safely.
Kentucky Oversize Regulations
Kentucky Legal Dimension Limit
Kentucky Legal Trucking Dimensions
| Dimension | Legal Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 53 ft (Interstates & designated highways) 65 ft (total length on non-designated highways) |
Trailer overhang up to 5 ft allowed for 48 ft and 53 ft trailers |
| Width | 8 ft 6 in (designated routes) 8 ft (other roads) |
Standard width limits apply across most commercial routes |
| Height | 13 ft 6 in | Standard maximum height under Kentucky law |
Kentucky Legal Weight Limits
| Axle Group | Legal Weight Limit |
|---|---|
| Single Axle | 20,000 lbs |
| Tandem Axle | 34,000 lbs |
| Tridem Axle | 48,000 lbs |
Routine Oversize/Overweight Limits
| Dimension | Maximum Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 110 ft (four-lane roads) 75 ft (two-lane roads) |
Requires route approval |
| Width | Up to 16 ft | Permit required |
| Height | Up to 15 ft 6 in | Loads above this height rarely approved; must have safe route pre-approved |
Permitted Axle Weights (With CO Overweight Permit)
| Axle Group | Maximum Permitted Weight |
|---|---|
| Single Axle | Up to 24,000 lbs |
| Tandem Axle | Up to 45,000 lbs (5 axles) Up to 48,000 lbs (6+ axles) |
| Tridem Axle | Up to 60,000 lbs |
| Quad Axle | Up to 80,000 lbs |
Gross Weight Limits (With Permit)
- 5 axles: Up to 96,000 lbs
- 6 axles: Up to 120,000 lbs (allowed on two-lane roads)
- 7 axles: 134,000–140,000 lbs (on four-lane highways with booster axle; not with tridem)
Superload Classification
Vehicles are typically classified as superloads when gross weight exceeds approximately 300,000 lbs. Permissible weights and dimensions vary by route and require special approval.
Kentucky oversize permits validity period
Kentucky Trucking Permit Overview
To operate legally in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky trucking permits, including oversize, overweight, superload, IRP, IFTA, TRP, and temporary trip and fuel permits.
Permit Types & Validity
| Permit Type | Required For | Validity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Registration | All commercial vehicles operating within Kentucky | 1 year from date of issuance | Fees based on vehicle type and weight classification |
| Trip Permits | Short-term or one-time operations; non-IRP/IFTA vehicles | Typically up to 10 days | Valid for a single trip or limited duration |
| Oversize/Overweight Permits | Vehicles exceeding 8'6" width, 13'6" height, 65' length, or 80,000 lbs | Single Trip: One-time Annual: 1 year Blanket: 1 year |
Route approval required for certain dimensions or weights |
| IFTA Temporary Permit | Interstate carriers with vehicles over 26,000 lbs | Up to 30 days | Required for IFTA eligibility |
| Kentucky KYU Permit | Vehicles with combined licensed weight ≥ 60,000 lbs | Annual | Renewal required each year |
| Hazardous Materials Permit | Vehicles transporting hazardous substances | Varies | Aligned with DOT and federal guidelines |
| Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) | Commercial carriers operating in Kentucky | 1 calendar year | Must be renewed annually |
Operating Time Kentucky:
Kentucky now allows continuous operation 24/7, including weekends, except for the restrictions listed below and for superloads.
Restricted Travel Kentucky:
Movement is restricted on major national holidays, which include Christmas Day, Thanksgiving, Labor Day, Independence Day, Memorial Day, Good Friday, and New Year’s Day. If a holiday falls on a Monday, operations must cease by noon on the preceding day (usually Sunday). Note that holiday travel regulations are subject to annual updates.
Oversize Restrictions on Roads and Bridges in Kentucky
Restricted Travel Areas: Travel is not permitted in Boone, Kenton, or Campbell counties (greater Cincinnati area), Jefferson County (most of Louisville), Fayette County (most of Lexington), or Owensboro, KY, including the KY 2155 Bridge, between the hours of 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Tire Requirements for Oversize Loads
- Tires must be in standard working condition, properly inflated, and have at least the minimum legal tread depth.
- Regrooved or recut tires are not permitted unless they are specifically designed and approved for such use and meet all safety standards.
- No tire should carry a load exceeding 600 pounds per inch of tire width.
- For rubber-tired vehicles using chains, cross chains must not be thicker or wider than three-quarters of an inch. Additionally, these chains must be installed in such a way that the distance between adjacent cross chains around the tire does not exceed ten inches.
Kentucky Escort Requirement
On divided highways with four or more lanes
- Length-Based Requirements: Over 120 feet required three escorts required.
- Overhang: Exceeding 10 feet, at least one escort; some routes may require two.
- Width-Based Requirements:
Over 12 feet required one escort
Over 14 feet required possibly two escorts
Over 16 feet required three escorts - Height-Based Requirements: Over 14 feet 11 inches required one front escort with a height pole is necessary
On two-lane highways:
- Length-Based Requirements:
75 to 85 feet required one escort
Over 85 feet required one escort in front and two in the rear - Overhang: Over 10 feet required at least one escort; certain roads may need two.
- Width-Based Requirements:
10 feet 6 inches to 12 feet required one escort
12 to 14 feet required two escorts - Height-Based Requirements: Exceeding 14 feet 11 inches requires a front escort with a height pole.
Kentucky Banners, Lighting & Flage Requirement
“Oversize Load” signs are required for any load exceeding 10 feet 6 inches in width. Any oversized load and any extremities must be flagged at all four corners. Flagging is necessary for loads exceeding length limits; however, a sign is not required in such cases.
Additional Information
Miscellaneous: Blades, buckets, and similar items wider than 14 feet must be removed, although they can be lifted with the load. Smaller components can be separated and transported with the load, regardless of the load’s overall size.
Kentucky Oversize/Overweight Fee structure
Kentucky 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:
Kentucky Trip & Annual Permit Fees
| Permit Type | Coverage / Conditions | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Trip Permit | Single trip operation | $60 per permit |
| Oversize Annual Permit | Non-divisible loads under 14 ft wide | $250 per year |
| Oversize Annual Permit | Non-divisible loads between 14–16 ft wide | $500 per year |
| Steel Transport Permit | Up to 150-mile radius | $250 annually |
| Steel Transport Permit | Statewide (route approval required) | $500 annually |
| Farm Equipment Permit | Under 14 ft wide | $80 annually |
| Farm Equipment Permit | Between 14–16 ft wide | $150 annually |
| Industrial Haul Permit | General industrial transport | $20 per year |
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of an oversize permit in Kentucky typically starts at $60 per trip, but the final price may vary depending on the dimensions, weight, and route. Additional fees can apply for escort requirements, superloads, or extended permits.
In Kentucky, oversize and overweight vehicles must obtain a special permit before traveling. Movement is generally allowed from sunrise to sunset, Monday through Saturday, with restrictions on holidays and inclement weather. Escort vehicles may be required depending on the size and weight of the load.
Kentucky oversize permits can be obtained online through our website chicagopermit.net or by calling us at 630-222-5770
Yes, Kentucky requires a temporary trip permit for commercial vehicles operating in the state without IRP registration. This permit allows non-registered carriers to legally travel through or operate within Kentucky for a limited time.
Kentucky oversize permits can be obtained online through our website chicagopermit.net or by calling us at 630-222-5770
You can log in to manage your Kentucky oversize permit through Our website chicagopermit.net
Applications for Kentucky 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.
Yes, you can get Kentucky oversize permit online by calling us at 630-222-5770.
In Kentucky, the legal load limits without a permit are 80,000 pounds gross weight, 8 feet 6 inches wide, 13 feet 6 inches high, and 53 feet long for a semi-trailer. Exceeding these limits requires an oversize/overweight permit
An overweight permit in Kentucky starts around $60, but the cost increases based on the total weight, number of axles, and mileage. Superloads or extremely heavy loads will incur additional charges.
An oversize permit typically costs $60 per single trip in Kentucky. However, costs can increase depending on the load’s dimensions, route, and if escort vehicles or additional approvals are required.
Seasonal restrictions in Kentucky often apply during winter or wet conditions to protect roadways. Certain rural or weight-sensitive routes may be off-limits for overweight vehicles during these times, especially when frost laws are in effect.
To obtain a Kentucky oversize permit, carriers must provide vehicle details, axle weights, load dimensions, and intended routes. Loads exceeding 12 feet wide or 14 feet 6 inches high may require escorts or special routing. Compliance with safety and lighting regulations is mandatory
In Kentucky, the maximum legal height for a vehicle without needing an oversize permit is 13 feet 6 inches. Any load exceeding this height requires a permit and possibly a route survey.
The maximum legal width for a vehicle in Kentucky without a permit is 8 feet 6 inches. Loads wider than this require an oversize permit and may be subject to escort and routing requirements
