Arizona Commercial Truck Weight Limits & Oversize Permits

Arizona Standard Weight Limits

Arizona follows federal bridge formula limits on interstates, with some state-specific rules for state highways and local roads.

Standard Legal Weights

Arizona applies the federal bridge formula on all highways. The formula limits gross weight based on axle spacing to protect bridge structures. If your axle spacing is tight, your legal gross weight may be below 80,000 lbs even if your axle weights are individually legal.

6-Axle Vehicles

Arizona allows 6-axle combinations up to 80,000 lbs gross. Properly spaced 6-axle setups can distribute weight more efficiently and help you stay legal at higher gross weights. Axle spacing must comply with bridge formula requirements.

Summer Weight Restrictions

Arizona does not have the spring seasonal weight restrictions that northern states impose for frost thaw. However, ADOT can post weight restrictions on specific routes after significant rain events, flooding, or road damage. Check the ADOT 511 system before running remote desert routes after monsoon activity (July–September).

Interstate 10 Weight Considerations

The I-10 Deck Tunnel in downtown Phoenix has specific height and hazmat restrictions. For weight, the standard 80,000 lb limit applies on I-10 throughout Arizona. The desert heat increases tire failure risk — run properly inflated tires and check load distribution carefully in summer months.

Oversize / Overweight Permits

Loads that exceed standard dimensions or weight limits require a permit from ADOT before moving on Arizona public roads.

When You Need a Permit

You need an Arizona oversize/overweight (OW/OD) permit if your load exceeds:

Note: Local roads and county roads may have lower limits. Always verify with the road authority if you’re moving off the state highway system.

ADOT Permit Types

Single-Trip Permit: For one movement from origin to destination. Includes approved route, travel time restrictions, and escort requirements if applicable. Valid for the specific trip dates listed.

Annual Permit: For repetitive movements of the same load configuration. Requires approval and is limited to specific corridors and weight configurations. Not available for all load types.

Superload Permit: For loads exceeding 16 ft wide, 16 ft tall, 130 ft long, or 250,000 lbs gross. These require engineering review, custom routing, and extended lead times. Budget 2–4 weeks minimum for superload approvals.

How to Get a Permit

Arizona permits are issued through the ADOT Motor Vehicle Division permit office. Online permitting is available for standard oversize loads through the ADOT permit portal.

For most oversize loads:

1. Have your load dimensions, axle weights, and origin/destination ready
2. Submit through the ADOT online system or fax to the permit office
3. Standard OW/OD permits are typically issued same-day or next-day
4. Superloads and complex routing require advance coordination

ADOT Permit Office: 602-712-7355 Hours: Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM–5:00 PM MST

Pilot Car Requirements

Arizona requires escort vehicles when loads exceed certain dimensions:

Specific pilot car requirements are listed on your permit. Always read your permit before moving — escort requirements vary by route and load configuration.

Travel Restrictions

Oversize permits in Arizona typically restrict travel to:

• Sunrise to sunset only for loads over 14 ft wide
• No travel on holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
• No travel during major events: Check for race weekends, state fairs, and major events near Phoenix and Tucson that trigger route closures

Some permits allow night movement — this depends on load dimensions and route. Request night travel authorization when submitting if your schedule requires it.

Port of Entry Compliance

Arizona operates several Ports of Entry (POE) on major routes entering the state. All commercial vehicles over 26,000 lbs GVWR must stop when the scales are open.

Key Arizona Ports of Entry

Scales are open 24/7 at most major entries. Check ADOT 511 for current POE status before departure.

Bypass Systems

Arizona participates in the PrePass weigh station bypass program. Enrolled carriers with compliant vehicles and clean safety records receive green lights allowing bypass without stopping. PrePass enrollment is handled through the PrePass program directly — contact your carrier or broker for details on eligibility.

Route Planning for Oversize Loads

Before moving an oversize load in Arizona, check:

1. Bridge clearances on your route — ADOT can provide bridge data for permit routing
2. Utility clearances for tall loads — especially in urban areas near Phoenix and Tucson
3. Construction zones on I-10 and I-17 — lane width restrictions affect wide loads
4. Desert heat timing — plan wide load moves during cooler morning hours in summer

The I-17 between Phoenix and Flagstaff has steep grades and tight curves that require careful assessment for long or wide loads. See the I-17 Corridor Guide for route details.

Insurance for Oversize Operations

Oversize/overweight loads require appropriate cargo and liability coverage. Standard cargo policies may have exclusions or sublimits for oversize freight. Confirm with your broker that your policy covers the load value and type before moving.

If you’re operating oversize loads regularly in Arizona and want to confirm your coverage is right for the work, request a quote and we’ll review your operation.