Key Rules & Limits
Duration & Usage
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Valid for 3 consecutive calendar days (72 hours).
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One permit per vehicle. You can’t share/transfer between vehicles.
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Max 3 trip permits per vehicle in any 30-day period.
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For recreational vehicles (RVs), the limit is 2 trip permits per year.
Weight Limits
Under a trip permit, a vehicle can operate up to:
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40,000 lbs if it’s a single-unit vehicle
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80,000 lbs for a combination vehicle (e.g., truck + trailer)
This temporary “legal weight” allows vehicles to carry heavier loads than their unregistered or under-registered status would normally permit — but special oversize/overweight permits are separate and still required for loads that exceed dimension or weight limits.
Restrictions
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Cannot be used in place of full registration for long-term use.
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Not valid if the vehicle or carrier is under a Washington State Patrol out-of-service order.
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Trip permits do not cover oversize/overweight dimensions, meaning additional permits must be obtained if you exceed size/weight limits.
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Permit must be completed, signed, and dated before operation, and carried in the vehicle for inspection.
Cost of a 3-Day Trip Permit
Standard Fees
According to official Washington state fee schedules:
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Trip permit fee: $95 for three days.
Notes on Fees
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If purchasing a special fuel permit alongside your trip permit (e.g., for vehicles not under IFTA), there is a separate fee (~95).
Where & How to Get It
You can obtain a 3-Day Trip Permit:
Online at https://www.washingtontruckingonline.com/
By caLLING (206) 339-6683
When applying, you’ll typically need:
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Vehicle VIN
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License plate info (if any)
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Desired start date/time
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Vehicle type and registered weight
Permits are usually issued immediately at the point of purchase.
Practical Tips
Plan ahead: Don’t wait until the day of travel to get a permit, especially if your trip spans multiple states.
Keep documentation accessible: Inspectors can request your trip permit at any time on the road.
Know your load: If you’re over legal weight or size limits, purchase the appropriate oversize/overweight permits in addition to the trip permit.
Track usage limits: Using more than 3 permits in 30 days can result in denial of permits or compliance issues.