New Jersey

New Jersey Oversize Permits & Escorts Information

Do you need oversize load permits in the state of New Jersey? Find out the maximum width and weight allowed on New Jersey highways, the legal operating times, the oversize load signage rules, and when New Jersey 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: 63′
• Width: 8’6″
• Height: 13’6″
• Weight: 80,000 lbs gross

Permits

New Jersey oversize permits are valid for five travel days. Must have permit prior to entering the state. For more information, visit the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

Legal Operating Times

• Daylight hours, seven days a week.
• Continuous 24/7 travel allowed for overweight only loads.
• Travel prohibited on NJ Route 495 and the Holland Tunnel, the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway, and the Atlantic City Expressway. Access onto the I-95 section of the NJ Turnpike between Ridgefield and the George Washington Bridge requires permission of the Turnpike Authority. Travel on I-95 to New York via the GW Bridge must contact the Port Authority prior to arrival.
• No travel on major holidays.

Pilot Cars & Escort Vehicles

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

• Length: Over 100′ long requires one. Over 120′ requires two.
• Width: Over 14′ wide requires one. Over 16′ requires two escorts.
• Height: Over 14′ high requires one. Prior to travel, the NJ DOT, the county and municipal Traffic Engineering Departments, and all public utility companies must be notified.
• Weight: Undefined.
• Overhang: Undefined.

Pilot Car and Escort Vehicle Requirements

Pilot cars and escort vehicles must display on the front and/or rear of vehicle yellow “WIDE LOAD” or “OVERSIZE LOAD” signs at least 6’ long by 1’ tall with black letters at least 10” tall. Flags must be displayed on the front and rear corners of the vehicle.

Oversize Load Sign Requirements

“OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDE LOAD” signs are required on all over-width vehicles. Red flags must be mounted on all corners of the load, on over-width extremities, and on the rear corners of an over-length load. Low beam headlights and red tail lights should be illuminated.

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