Hauling Permits
What is a Hauling Permit?
A hauling permit is a document that authorizes movement of overweight and/or overdimensional vehicle configurations over the state highway system. Each permit contains routing information, travel regulations and safety requirements.
Hauling Permits Manual (DMV 234)
Eligibility
To qualify for a hauling permit your vehicle configuration must be:
- reduced to its smallest dimensions possible, and
- still exceed legal length, width, height, or weight limitations.
You can not create an over-dimensional or overweight situation by hauling or towing multiple items.
When is a Hauling Permit Required?
If your vehicle configuration is reduced to its smallest dimensions possible and still exceeds the maximum limitations identified below, you must obtain a hauling permit prior to traveling over Virginia's highways. This table displays configurations and maximum dimensions for vehicles before a hauling permit is required.
| Dimension | Limitation |
|---|---|
| Height | 13 feet 6 inches |
| Width | 8 feet 6 inches |
| Length | 40 feet for Motorized Vehicles other than Buses or Motor Homes |
| Length | 48 feet for Trailers (53 foot trailers are allowed on interstate system) |
| Length | 65 feet for Vehicle/Trailer Combination |
| Overhang | 4 feet - Rear 3 feet - Front |
| Weight | 20,000 pounds - Single Axle |
| Weight | 34,000 pounds - Tandem Axle |
Legal Limit Weight Allowances - Gross/Axle Group Weight
New Automated Routing Solution
DMV offers an Automated Routing Solution (ARS) for approving and issuing hauling permits. ARS will reduce the permit issuance turnaround time and provide you with the ability to submit hauling permit applications electronically, self-issue certain types of hauling permits and receive most hauling permits in one day or less.
To get started, either logon using your VAHPS ID, User ID and PIN, or register for a self-service account.
In addition, the ARS will allow hauling permit customers to sign up for electronic funds transfers through the Automated Clearing House (ACH). The ACH provides two payment methods: ACH credit and ACH debit.
Types of Permits Available Online
Single Trip
Definition: One move between origin and destination
Cost: $20
Note: A mileage fee of ten cents per mile is added if overweight or if the vehicle configuration can not be licensed in Virginia. Mobile homes and Manufactured housing will pay a flat fee of $1.00 in lieu of the ten cents per mile fee.Blanket
Definition: Multiple moves over a specified period of time.
Cost: $100 for one year; $200 for two years
Note: A mileage fee of $40 per year is added if overweight or if the vehicle configuration can not be licensed in Virginia (Mobile homes and Manufactured homes included).Superload
The overall size and or weight of the vehicle configuration requires research and analysis.
Cost: $30
Note: A mileage fee of ten cents per mile is added if overweight or if the vehicle configuration can not be licensed in Virginia. A $4.00 per structure/bridge research fee is added. Interstate only moves count as one structure/bridge.Exempt Permits
Various types of permits are available to specific commodities or services.
VDOT Structure Exclusion Lists for Blanket Permits
Please download the VDOT Structure Exclusion List that is referenced in your Virginia Blanket Hauling Permit.
Obtaining a Permit In Person
Permits may be obtained in person at DMV Headquarters, 2300 West Broad Street, Richmond Va., Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Contact Information
Office Location:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Hauling Permit Section
2300 West Broad Street
Sixth Floor
Richmond, Virginia 23260Mailing Address:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Hauling Permit Section
P.O. Box 23260
Sixth Floor
Richmond, Virginia 23260Phone:
General inquiries and information: (804) 497-7135
Single Trip Permit via phone: (804) 786-2787Fax:
Fax your permit application, letter of variance or any other attachments to your application to: (804) 367-0063
Website Feedback:
Ask a question, report a bug or send comments about VAHPS to:haulingpermit@dmv.virginia.gov
Payment Options
- Check
- Credit Card (Mastercard, Visa, Discover & American Express)
- Money Order
- Cash (in person at 2300 W. Broad Street)







