Gross Weight Limits by State: 2026 Trucking Guide
When a truck is grossed out, it has hit its maximum legal weight. But that maximum varies by state, road classification, and number of axles. This guide breaks down the federal 80,000 lb baseline, state-by-state exceptions, and the bridge formula that governs axle spacing.
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O TruckingGross Weight Limits by State: 2026 Trucking Guide
The Federal 80,000 lb Baseline
Under federal law, the maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) for a standard 5-axle combination vehicle on Interstate highways is 80,000 pounds. This includes the weight of the tractor, trailer, fuel, driver, and cargo combined. The limit was established by the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 and has not changed since.
Within that 80,000 lb cap, federal law also sets per-axle limits: 20,000 lbs on a single axle and 34,000 lbs on a tandem axle (two axles spaced 40 to 96 inches apart). Steer axles are typically limited to 12,000-14,000 lbs depending on tire ratings. These individual limits mean you can be overweight on an axle even if your total GVW is under 80,000 lbs.
State-by-State Variations
States cannot set weight limits lower than the federal standard on Interstate highways, but they can set their own limits on state and local roads. Some states also have “grandfather rights” that allow higher Interstate weights because those limits existed before the 1982 federal law.
Michigan
Michigan allows the highest gross weights in the nation — up to 164,000 lbs on certain state routes with an 11-axle configuration. Michigan uses an axle weight table instead of the federal bridge formula, rewarding carriers that add axles to spread the load.
Nevada, Utah, and Western States
Several western states allow higher weights with additional axles. Nevada permits up to 129,000 lbs on certain routes. Utah allows up to 129,000 lbs with proper permits and axle configurations. These higher limits reflect the mining and agricultural industries in these states.
Interstate vs Intrastate
The federal 80,000 lb limit applies to Interstate highways. State highways, county roads, and local roads may have different limits — some higher (with permits), some lower (especially on bridges and seasonal roads). Always check the specific route, not just the state.
Bridge Formula B
Overweight Permits and Special Routes
Every state offers overweight permits for loads that exceed standard limits. These permits specify exact routes, travel times (often restricted to daylight hours), and may require pilot cars or escort vehicles. Permit fees range from $15 to several hundred dollars depending on the state, weight, and distance. Multi-state hauls require separate permits from each state.
Certain routes are designated as overweight corridors — particularly for heavy industries like logging, mining, and agriculture. Knowing these routes is essential for carriers that regularly haul heavy freight. The overweight fines guide covers what happens when you exceed limits without a permit.
Always Verify at the State Level
Practical Advice for Staying Compliant
The safest approach is to treat 80,000 lbs as your hard cap on Interstate runs and verify state-specific limits for any non-Interstate route. Weigh your truck at CAT Scale locations before crossing state lines when you are running heavy. Keep permits accessible in the cab — not buried in a folder. And remember that individual axle weights matter as much as total gross weight. A truck that grosses 78,000 lbs can still be cited if a tandem axle is over 34,000 lbs.
Weight enforcement varies by state. Some states are aggressive with portable scales and frequent roadside checks. Others rely primarily on fixed weigh stations. Knowing which states prioritize weight enforcement helps you plan accordingly — but compliance should be your standard everywhere.
Weight Limits FAQ
Common questions about truck weight limits by state
What is the federal gross weight limit for trucks?
The federal gross vehicle weight limit is 80,000 pounds for a standard 5-axle tractor-trailer combination on Interstate highways. This applies to all Interstate routes unless a state has been grandfathered with a higher limit. The 80,000 lb limit has been in place since the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982.
Which states allow more than 80,000 lbs?
Several states allow higher gross weights on state roads. Michigan allows up to 164,000 lbs on certain state highways with enough axles. Other states with higher intrastate limits include Nevada, Utah, and several states that permit higher weights with special permits or additional axles. These higher limits generally apply to state highways, not Interstates.
What is the bridge formula?
Federal Bridge Formula B (also called Bridge Formula W) determines the maximum weight allowed on a group of axles based on the number of axles and the distance between them. The formula prevents excessive weight concentration that could damage bridges. Even if your total weight is under 80,000 lbs, you can still be overweight on a bridge formula calculation if axles are too close together.
Do I need a permit to haul overweight loads?
Yes. If your load exceeds the federal 80,000 lb limit or any applicable axle weight limit, you need an overweight permit from each state you will travel through. Permits specify the route, time of travel, and may require escort vehicles. Penalties for hauling overweight without a permit can reach $10,000 or more per violation depending on the state.
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