Nebraska

Nebraska Oversize Permits & Escorts Information

Do you need oversize load permits in the state of Nebraska? Find out the maximum width and weight allowed on Nebraska highways, the legal operating times, the oversize load signage rules, and when Nebraska requires pilot cars. The following data is for informational purposes only. We are not a permit service, do not arrange permits for carriers, and do not answer permit and escort requirement questions.

Oversize Load Limits

Maximum load sizes before a permit is required:

• Length: 85′
• Width: 8’6″
• Height: 13″6″
• Weight: 80,000 lbs gross
• Overhang: Rules determined on a case by case basis

Permits

Nebraska oversize permits are valid for ten days. Permits are required prior to entering the state. For more information, visit the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

Legal Operating Times

• One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset, including Saturday and Sunday
• No travel on most major holidays and the day after Thanksgiving.
• Lincoln and Omaha have additional travel time restrictions.

Pilot Cars & Escort Vehicles

Escort vehicle or pilot car required for heavy-haul or oversize loads if:

• The length is 90′ to 100′. (One rear required.)
• The length exceeds 100′. (One rear and one chase required.)
• The width exceeds 8’6″. (One may be required. In some cases, a light bar may be used in lieu of a pilot car or escort vehicle.)
• The width is 12’4″ to 14′ wide. (One rear is required on four-lane roads; one front is required on two-lane roads.)
• The width exceeds 14′. (One front and one rear required.)
• The height exceeds 14’6″. (One is required. A height pole may be required on certain routes.)
• The overhang exceeds 15′. (One rear is required.)

Pilot Car and Escort Vehicle Requirements

All pilot cars or escort vehicles must be equipped with one revolving amber light on the top of the vehicle and must have both left- and right-side amber or yellow flashing or rotary lights large enough to be visible at at 360° from a distance of at least than 800′. Lights must be at least 6″ in diameter and have a minimum of 50 candle power bulbs. Pilot or escort vehicles must have flags in the front if leading or in the rear if chasing.

Oversize Load Sign Requirements

All shipments must be marked with “OVERSIZE LOAD” signs containing a yellow background and black letters at least 10″ in height. 18″x18″ red or orange fluorescent flags must be displayed on all four corners of the load. One revolving amber light must be placed on the top of the cab. For nighttime travel, loads over 12′ wide must mount a light bar attachment on the rear of the shipment at a height that visible to motorists approaching from the rear.

The data on this page is for informational purposes only, and we do not guarantee its accuracy.