Who needs a trucking permit in Washington State

Dec. 18, 2025, 3:48 p.m.
In Washington State a trucking permit also called an oversize overweight or commercial vehicle permit is required for certain commercial vehicles and loads before they operate on public highways. Here’s who generally needs one
Trucking Permit in Washington State

1. Operators of Oversize or Overweight Trucks

You need a trucking permit if your vehicle exceeds the state’s legal size or weight limits, including:

  • Width greater than 8 ft 6 in

  • Height over 14 ft

  • Length over standard limits (e.g., trailers over 53 ft or combinations over 75 ft)

  • Weight exceeding legal gross or axle limits under state law

These limits apply to both the truck and its load, and if any part of the load can reasonably be reduced to fit within limits, a permit generally won’t be issued.  

2. Non‑Divisible Loads

A permit is required for non‑divisible loads, meaning loads that cannot reasonably be separated, dismantled, or reduced to meet legal limits (e.g., large machinery).  

3. Out‑of‑State Trucks

If you’re operating a commercial vehicle registered outside Washington and you enter the state with an oversize or overweight truck, you must obtain the appropriate Washington permit before traveling on state highways.  

4. Local / City Permits

Some cities (like Seattle) may have additional permit requirements for oversized or overweight traffic on local streets. These are separate from state permits and must be obtained if your route includes city roads. 

5. Temporary Trip or Fuel Permits

Even if your load is within weight/size limits, certain temporary permits may be required:

  • Trip permits if your truck isn’t registered in Washington and you need to operate temporarily (e.g., weight or registration outside state limits).  

  • Fuel permits if your vehicle doesn’t pay Washington fuel tax under IFTA and meets commercial weight/axle criteria. 

When Permits Are Not Needed

  • If your vehicle and load stay within all legal dimension and weight limits.

  • If your vehicle is properly registered (e.g., IRP apportioned) in Washington and doesn’t exceed permitted limits.  

 Quick Summary

You need a Washington trucking permit if you are:

  • Hauling oversize or overweight loads beyond legal limits.  

  • Transporting non‑divisible loads that can’t be broken down.  

  • Entering the state with a heavy commercial vehicle not fully registered in WA.  

  • Using temporary trip or fuel permits based on registration/fuel tax status.  

 

https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/commercial-vehicles/commercial-vehicle-permits