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Californiaoperating inNorth Carolina
Standard Federal — 80,000 lbs GVW, federal rules only

North Carolina

Interstate GVW
80,000 lbs
Height Limit
13 ft 6 in
Width Limit
8 ft 6 in
Permits Honored
No

Weight Limits

North Carolina interstate GVW limit: 80,000 lbs. Per-axle limits: Single axle 20,000 lbs, Tandem axle 38,000 lbs, Tridem axle 42,000 lbs. Federal bridge formula applies; NC allows higher tandem axle weights than federal standard. Enforcement tolerance: Limited tolerance on tandem axle weights.

Size Limits

Height: 13 ft 6 in. Width: 8 ft 6 in. Trailer length: 53 ft (semitrailer). Overall combination length: No overall limit for tractor-semitrailer.

Oversize/Overweight Permits

Oversize/overweight permits through NCDOT PIMS online system Fees: Single-trip: $15; Annual: $75+. California oversize permits are not directly honored in North Carolina. You will need to obtain a North Carolina-specific permit for oversize/overweight loads. Apply online: https://connect.ncdot.gov/business/trucking/pages/overpermits.aspx Enforcement: SHPD and DOT enforcement; weigh stations; per-pound fines.

Exemptions

Agricultural: Agricultural vehicles exempt on state highways; farm equipment has width exemptions. Timber/Forestry: Timber vehicles allowed higher weights on designated state roads.

Official Source

For the most current weight and size regulations, permit applications, and seasonal restriction updates, visit the official North Carolina DOT page at https://connect.ncdot.gov/business/trucking/. Contact the North Carolina Department of Transportation for specific routing questions.

Law last updated: 2025Row last reviewed: May 7, 2026

Weight and size limits are subject to change. Always verify current limits on the official state DOT website before travel. Seasonal restrictions, bridge postings, and local ordinances may further reduce allowable weights. Data reflects 2025-2026 regulations where available.