JavaScript must be enabled in order for you to use DMVNow in standard view. However, it seems JavaScript is either disabled or not supported by your browser. To use standard view, enable JavaScript by changing your browser options, then try again. To get the best experience, you'll need to upgrade to a modern browser.
Skip to Content
Agencies | Governor
Search Virginia.Gov

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.

To qualify for a hauling permit, your vehicle configuration must be reduced to its smallest dimensions possible, and still exceed the 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 limitations identified below, you must obtain a hauling permit prior to traveling over Virginia's highways. This chart displays configurations and maximum dimensions for vehicles before a hauling permit is required.

Maximum Limitations:

  • Height: 13 feet 6 inches
  • Width: 8 feet 6 inches
  • Length (Motorized Vehicles other than Buses or Motor Homes): 40 feet
  • Length (Trailers): 48 feet (53-foot trailers are allowed on interstate system)
  • Length (Vehicle/Trailer Combination): 65 feet, Overhang: 4 feet - Rear 3 feet - Front
  • Weight (Single Axle): 20,000 pounds
  • Weight (Tandem Axle): 34,000 pounds
  • Legal Limit Weight Allowances - Gross/Axle Group Weight

Obtaining a Permit

Permits may be obtained online or 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.

Payment Options

  • Check
  • Credit Card (Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express)
  • Money Order
  • Cash (in person at 2300 W. Broad Street)

Hauling Permits Manual

DMV 234

The 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.

Permit Types

Permit Type Definition Cost
Single Trip One move between origin and destination. $20

Note: A mileage fee of 30 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 30 cents per mile fee.
Blanket Multiple moves over a specified period of time. $100 for one year; $200 for two years

Note: A mileage fee of $40 and a damage fee of $360 per year will be added if overweight. If the vehicle configuration cannot be licensed in Virginia (Mobile homes and Manufactured homes included), the $40 mileage fee per year will apply.
Superload The overall size and or weight of the vehicle configuration requires research and analysis. $30

Note: A mileage fee of 30 cents per mile is added if overweight or if the vehicle configuration cannot be licensed in Virginia. A $4.00 per structure/bridge research fee is added. Interstate only moves count as one structure/bridge. An additional damage fee is added based on the gross weight of the vehicle configuration.

Please call the Hauling Permit Department at (804) 497-7135 for more information.

VDOT Structure Exclusion Lists for Blanket Permits

Please download the VDOT Structure Exclusion List that is referenced in your Virginia Blanket Hauling Permit.

Locality Documents for Blanket Permits

Please download the documents referenced in your Locality Blanket Permit(s)

Exempt Permits

Various types of permits are available for specific commodities or services. For more information, refer to Exempt Permits

Contact Information

  • In Person
  • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
  • Hauling Permits Section
  • 2300 West Broad St.
  • 6th Floor
  • Richmond, Va. 23260
  • Mail
  • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
  • Hauling Permits Section
  • P.O. Box 23260
  • 6th Floor
  • Richmond, Virginia 23260
  • Phone
  • General inquiries and information: (804) 497-7135
  • Single Trip Permit via phone: (804) 786-2787
  • Fax
  • Fax your permit application, letter of variance or any other attachments to your application to: (804) 367-0063