The following information about Kansas Oversize Permits is for informational purposes only. It’s important to always read your permits and provisions sheets carefully as we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact the following number.

Kansas DOT#: 785-368-6501

 Kansas Oversize Permits Duration

Kansas Oversize permits are valid for a duration of seven days. Typically, permits are acquired before entering the state. However, permits can also be obtained at Ports of Entry, with the requirement of providing proof of insurance in the vehicle if obtaining the permit at a Port of Entry.

Operating Time

From half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, every day, including holidays. No limitations for overweight-only loads.

Kansas Turnpike

Vehicles with a width of up to 12 feet 6 inches are permitted to travel without an escort, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, provided they have proper lighting if traveling at night. Those exceeding 12 feet 6 inches in width, up to 14 feet wide, can travel during the daytime without an escort. The maximum width allowed is 16 feet, and the maximum length is 125 feet. Special approval from a Turnpike Highway Patrol Officer is required for a maximum height of 14 feet. Maximum weight limits are 20,000 pounds for a single axle, 34,000 pounds for tandems, 42,000 pounds for triples, and 50,000 pounds for quads. The overall gross weight limit is 120,000 pounds. For inquiries, contact the Turnpike phone at (316) 682-4537.

Legal Dimensions for Kansas Oversize Permits

Length:

  • 59′-6″ trailer
  • The overall length for a tractor-trailer combination is 85 feet, as long as the trailer does not exceed a length of 59 feet 6 inches.

Overhang:

A trailer and load with a length of 59 feet 6 inches are allowed, as long as the overall length does not exceed 85 feet.

Width:

8′-6″

Height:

14′

Weight:

A gross weight of 80,000 is permissible on Interstate and designated routes, while on other roads, a weight of 85,500 is allowed (provided the vehicle is registered for 85,500 and maintains legal axle weights).

  • Single – 20,000
  • Tandem – 34,000
  • Tridem – 42,000

Call (832) 454-5883 For Permit Consultation

Kansas Oversize Permits image

Routine Permit Limits in Kansas

Length:

126′

Width:

16′-6″

Height:

A height of 18 feet is allowed, subject to clearances. However, for heights surpassing 17 feet, it is necessary to notify all relevant utilities before proceeding with the move.

Weight:

  • Single – 22,000
  • Tandem – 45,000
  • Tridem – 60,000
  • Quad – 65,000

To obtain a permit for overweight, your tractor must be registered for 85,500, or you can opt to pay an additional fee for a trip permit.

Note:

  • When overweight on any axle group, it is mandatory for all axles to be down. 
  • Loads that surpass these dimensions or weigh over 150,000 pounds GVW are classified as Super Loads. 
  • Additionally, for loads exceeding 80,000 GVW, the unit must be registered for 85,500.

Escort Requirements for Kansas  Oversize Load Permits

Width:

  • For widths exceeding 16 feet 6 inches or when transporting large structures on 4-lane highways, two escorts are required.
  • For widths exceeding 14 feet on highways with less than 4 lanes, two escorts are required.

With the exception of superloads and large structures, the rear escort can be omitted if a warning light is affixed to the top of the towing vehicle and to the rear of the load. It should be mounted no less than two feet and no more than eight feet above the surface of the road.

Height:

For widths surpassing 18 feet, one escort with a height pole is required. Additionally, for heights exceeding 17 feet, it is necessary to notify all relevant utilities before proceeding with the move.

EXEMPTIONS in Kansas Oversize Permits:

Poles, beams, steel pipes, and construction steel loads may extend up to 85 feet in overall length (including the vehicle and load) without requiring a permit. This is permissible as long as the trailer does not exceed 59 feet 6 inches (restricted to daylight travel only), and all other dimensions comply with legal requirements.

Signs, Flags & Lights for Kansas Oversize Load Permits

All loads moving under a permit must display “Oversize Load” signs. Red flags must be affixed to each side of the widest part of a wide load and to the rear of all overlength loads. If overhang exceeds legal limits, the end of the overhanging object must be flagged, and a lamp should be placed at the end of the load to enhance visibility during periods of hazy daylight. Overweight-only loads require Kansas Oversize Permits signs when operating during daylight, but they must be removed if running at night.