Virginia oversize load rules
Legal limits, pilot car requirements, travel restrictions, superload thresholds and permit fees for oversize and overweight loads in Virginia.
Legal limits without a permit
| Width | 8′6″ (102 in) |
|---|---|
| Height | 13′6″ |
| Length | 53′ trailer on the interstate system · 48′ elsewhere · 65′ combination · 40′ single vehicle |
| Weight | 80,000 lb gross on interstates |
At a glance
| Escorts | 6 escort rules, starting at 12′ wide |
|---|---|
| Superload | 4 review triggers (height, length, weight, width) |
| Travel | 4 restrictions (curfews, night, holidays) |
| Fees | 3 published fee lines |
Escort (pilot car) requirements
- 6 width, height and length thresholds with the escort count for each
- Overhang and route-type conditions
Travel restrictions
- 4 restrictions: curfews, night travel, weekends and holidays
- Which ones apply to a given load size
Superloads
- Exact thresholds and what the state requires past them
- Lead times, route surveys and police escort conditions
Permit fees
- 3 published fee lines with links to the fee schedule
- Validity periods and add-on charges
Common questions
When does a load need a pilot car in Virginia?
Over 12′ wide, 14′5″ high, or 90′ long on non-interstate routes (120′ on interstates). Virginia's counts climb fast: over 16′ wide on a two-lane road takes two front and two rear escorts.
Can oversize loads drive through Virginia cities at rush hour?
No. Permitted loads may not travel inside city or town limits 7–9 AM or 4–6 PM unless they are only overweight or only over-length up to 85′.
What is a superload in Virginia?
Anything past the single-trip maximums of 15′ wide, 15′ high and 150′ long, or any configuration whose size or weight needs research and analysis. Allow 10 working days.
Sources
- 24VAC20-82, Overload and Hauling Permits Regulation
- Virginia DMV hauling permits
- Virginia DMV size, weight and equipment requirements (DMV 109)
Planning reference. Permits carry their own conditions, and city and county roads have separate rules. Confirm with the Virginia DMV Hauling Permits before moving a load. Found an error? Report it.
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