Temporary vs Annual Trucking Permits in Washington

Oct. 30, 2025, 1:19 p.m.
In Washington State, commercial carriers often need permits to legally operate vehicles that exceed standard size, weight, or operational limits. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) issues two primary types of trucking permits — temporary and annual — each designed to meet different business and operational needs. Understanding the distinctions between these two options helps carriers stay compliant and choose the most cost-effective approach.
Temporary vs Annual Trucking Permits in Washington

Temporary Trucking Permits

Purpose:
Temporary permits are ideal for short-term or one-time operations, such as hauling a specific oversized load or entering the state for a limited job.

Validity:

  • Usually valid for a single trip or a specific duration, typically up to 3–10 days, depending on the permit type.

  • The permit applies only to the designated vehicle, route, and load listed at the time of application.

Common Uses:

  • Hauling an oversized piece of machinery for a single delivery.

  • Crossing into Washington for an out-of-state project.

  • Operating a truck while waiting for registration or permanent credentials.

Advantages:

  • Quick to obtain through WSDOT’s www.washingtontruckingonline.com

  • Lower initial cost for short-term needs.

  • Flexibility for irregular or occasional operations.

Limitations:

  • Must be renewed for each trip or load.

  • No long-term cost benefit for frequent haulers.

  • Route-specific — any deviation may require reissuance.

2. Annual Trucking Permits

Purpose:
Annual permits are designed for carriers who regularly haul similar loads or operate specific routes that exceed standard legal limits.

Validity:

  • Valid for one year from the date of issuance.

  • Covers ongoing operations for specific vehicle types or activities (e.g., overweight, oversize, or specialized hauling).

Common Uses:

  • Regular delivery routes using the same type of heavy equipment.

  • Logging, construction, or agricultural operations with consistent load profiles.

  • Fleets operating year-round within Washington.

Advantages:

  • Cost-effective for frequent or recurring trips.

  • Reduces administrative time and delays from repeated permit applications.

  • Allows predictable operations with pre-approved routes.

Limitations:

  • More stringent application requirements (load specs, axle spacing, insurance, etc.).

  • Limited to specific vehicle and route conditions approved by WSDOT.

  • Must be renewed annually before expiration to avoid penalties.

3. Key Differences at a Glance

Feature Temporary Permit Annual Permit
Duration 3–10 days or per trip 1 year
Purpose One-time or short-term hauls Regular or ongoing hauls
Cost Lower upfront, higher over time Higher upfront, lower long-term
Approval Time Fast (often same day) Longer (requires review)
Route Flexibility Route-specific Pre-approved routes
Best For Occasional operators Frequent or routine carriers

4. Choosing the Right Permit

Carriers should evaluate:

  • Frequency of travel within Washington

  • Load type and dimensions

  • Route consistency

  • Budget and compliance needs

If you only occasionally enter Washington or move special equipment, a temporary permit makes sense. For ongoing business operations within the state, an annual permit saves time, money, and administrative effort.