Types of Overweight Permits in Texas (And How to Get the Right Bond)

Texas enforces strict weight laws on every road and bridge. You need a permit and a $15,000 bond to haul heavy loads.
Don’t risk fines, impounds, or getting your business shut down.
This guide breaks down every overweight permit in Texas and how to get bonded fast.

Need an overweight permit bond now? Get Your Bond in Minutes →

What Is an Overweight Permit in Texas?

An overweight permit in Texas allows trucks to exceed the maximum legal weight limits on state roads. It applies to axle, gross, and bridge weight restrictions.
The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles issues oversize and overweight permits. These overweight regulations protect Texas roadways and bridges from damage caused by heavy vehicles.

Key Facts About Texas Overweight Permits:

• • Required for loads over 80,000 pounds.
  • You must obtain a permit before travel begins.
  • Valid only for routes and dates listed on the permit.
  • Often requires a $15,000 overweight permit bond.

• Enforced by TxDMV through roadside inspections.

Texas Size and Weight Limits

Compare Texas Overweight Permit Types

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Types of Overweight Permits in Texas

Texas offers several overweight permits to keep your heavy loads legal on the road. Knowing which permit you need will prevent fines, delays, and costly mistakes.

I’ll break down specific Texas permit requirements to ensure compliance with state regulations. You’ll see what it takes to haul heavy loads in Texas within legal size and weight limits.

Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit

The Weight Tolerance Permit covers loads that exceed standard axle and gross weight limits. You must stay on approved state and county roads in the state of Texas.
Texas law requires you to secure a $15,000 bond before applying. Construction, farming, and freight carriers rely on this permit for legal overweight transports.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: +10% axle / +5% gross (up to 81,400 lbs for 5 axles
• Common Use: Bulk freight, oil rigs, heavy equipment
• Bond Required: Yes ($15,000 bond)
• Fee Range: Starts at $100 + per-county fee ($175–$1,000)
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

General Single-Trip Permit

Use the Single-Trip Permit to move a single oversize or overweight load through Texas. It’s ideal for long freight or large equipment you can’t break down.
The permit only covers the exact route listed. It’s valid for a single trip and does not allow alternate routes or schedules.

Permit Details:

• Validity: One trip only
• Weight Allowed: Up to 254,300 lbs
• Common Use: Equipment hauls, long pipes, bridge beams
• Bond Required: No
• Fee Range: Based on load weight and route
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: Single-trip permits generally do not need a bond unless classified as over axle or super heavy.

Super Heavy Single-Trip Permit

The Super Heavy Permit covers loads over 254,300 pounds or with tight axle spacing. Use it to haul extreme weights you can’t reduce or divide.
Submit a detailed route for approval before moving oversize and overweight loads. An engineer may also inspect the route if your load exceeds axle group limits or has tight spacing.

Permit Details:

• Validity: One trip only
• Weight Allowed: Over 254,300 lbs or 200,000 lbs with <95 feet axle spacing
• Common Use: Cranes, transformers, large generators
• Bond Required: Yes ($15,000 bond if you exceed weight limits for vehicles)
• Fee Range: Starts at $60 + highway maintenance and supervision fees
• Permit Authority: TxDOT

Hauling super heavy loads? Contact us to confirm bond requirements before you apply.

Annual Envelope Permit (Vehicle-Specific)

The Vehicle-Specific Envelope Permit covers non-divisible loads that exceed legal size or weight limits. Use it for repeated moves with one truck and a fixed setup.
This permit is valid for a single vehicle only. Each trip must also follow the approved dimensions listed.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: Up to 120,000 lbs
• Common Use: Precast concrete, construction modules, machinery
• Bond Required: No (unless paired with weight tolerance)
• Fee Range: $4,000
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: Use this permit for consistent hauls with one vehicle. It saves time and cost.

Annual Envelope Permit (Company-Specific)

The Company-Specific Envelope Permit covers non-divisible loads exceeding legal or weight limits. Use it when your fleet hauls similar loads across multiple trucks.
Every truck must stay within the approved limits on size and weight. You can’t exceed or change those dimensions between trips.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: Up to 120,000 lbs
• Common Use: Fleet operations, modular haulers
• Bond Required: No
• Fee Range: $4,000
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: Best choice for fleets. One permit covers multiple trucks as long as they meet size limits.

County Overweight Permits

County Overweight Permits allow loads to travel on local Texas roads but not state highways. Use them when your haul begins, ends, or stays within a single county.
Follow the approved route and follow all local weight regulations. Some counties also require a bond before issuing the permit.

Permit Details:

• Validity: Up to 90 days
• Weight Allowed: Varies by county
• Common Use: Logging, farm transport, rural jobs
• Bond Required: Yes (specific counties require a $15,000 bond)
• Fee Range: Set by county
• Permit Authority: County Government

Tip: Contact the county office before you apply. Requirements, fees, and routes vary by location.

Timber Permit

The Timber Permit covers raw forest products like logs, wood chips, and biomass. Use it when hauling from timber sites to mills or processing plants.
You can only drive on approved state or county roads during every trip. Follow all posted weight limits and permit rules to avoid fines.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: Over legal limits on state and county roads
• Common Use: Logging, sawmills, forestry
• Bond Required: Yes ($15,000 bond for weight tolerance)
• Fee Range: Varies by county and weight
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Fluid Milk Transport Permit

The Milk Transport Permit covers bulk dairy loads that exceed standard weight limits. Use it to haul milk from farms to processing plants on approved routes.
Axle spacing and group weight must meet state guidelines. Follow Texas oversize or overweight permit rules to avoid inspections and delays.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: Axle group ≤ 68,000 lbs with 28 feet axle spacing
• Common Use: Dairy tankers
• Bond Required: Yes ($15,000 bond)
• Fee Range: Varies
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Ready-Mixed Concrete Truck Permit

The Concrete Truck Permit covers 3-axle trucks that carry ready-mixed concrete above standard weight limits. Use it for daily deliveries on approved routes.

Keep your load within axle spacing and route limits. Follow permit terms to avoid fines or road bans.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: Over 23,000 lbs axle / 46,000 lbs tandem
• Common Use: Concrete delivery
• Bond Required: Yes ($15,000 bond)
• Fee Range: Flat + bond requirement
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

You need an overweight bond before you apply. Get Your Bond Fast →

Intermodal Shipping Container Port Permit

The Port Permit covers sealed intermodal containers moved within 30 miles of Texas ports. Use it for short-haul drayage between ports, rail yards, and distribution centers.
Only haul sealed containers under contract. Follow approved routes and stay within permit limits at all times.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 1 year
• Weight Allowed: Based on axle configuration and route
• Common Use: Port drayage, intermodal freight
• Bond Required: No
• Fee Range: Varies
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: Use this permit if you haul sealed containers near Texas ports. It covers routes around Houston, Brownsville, and Laredo.

Manufactured Housing Permit

The Manufactured Housing Permit covers oversized homes and buildings moved by truck. Use it for single-trip or annual hauls of wide, long structures.
TxDMV requires escort vehicles and certified routes for most manufactured housing moves. Follow route instructions to avoid violations.

Permit Details:

• Validity: 5 days (single-trip) or 1 year (annual)
• Weight Allowed: Oversize only, not typically overweight
• Common Use: Manufactured housing delivery
• Bond Required: No
• Fee Range: $40 (single-trip), $1,500 (annual)
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: Plan routes with careful consideration. Some oversized loads exceed 20 feet wide and need route certification.

Portable Building Permit

The Portable Building Permit covers one-time moves of small structures like classrooms or mobile offices. Use it to haul a building and compatible cargo together in a single trip.
The TxDMV issues permits for non-divisible loads only. Follow the approved route to avoid penalties during transport.

Permit Details:

• Validity: Single trip
• Weight Allowed: Size-based, not weight-based
• Common Use: School buildings, mobile offices
• Bond Required: No
• Fee Range: $15
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: Check your route before the move. Oversized building hauls on the wrong roads can lead to fines or delays.

Self-Propelled Off-Road Equipment Permit

The Off-Road Equipment Permit allows you to drive heavy machines on public roads. This saves you from the hassle of using a trailer. Use it to move equipment like excavators or cranes between job sites.
TxDMV sets rules for weight, spacing, and tire size. Follow all permit terms to avoid violations.

Permit Details:

• Validity: Single trip or annual
• Weight Allowed: Exceeds standard limits (based on tire size and spacing)
• Common Use: Excavators, cranes, agricultural machinery
• Bond Required: No
• Fee Range: Based on axle count and weight
• Permit Authority: TxDMV

Tip: TxDMV requires specific spacing and tire load ratings. Review your equipment specs before applying.

Why You Need a Surety Bond to Get an Overweight Permit

Texas law requires a $15,000 surety bond before you can get an Over Axle or Overweight Permit. The bond protects the state from road damage caused by overweight vehicles and loads.
If you skip the bond, you risk fines, permit denial, or even license suspension. TxDMV will not approve your permit without it.

What to know about the bond:

• $15,000 bond required by TxDMV
• Costs $100 for one year
• Required before applying for the permit
• Ensures compliance with state weight laws
• Covers road damage, not fines

Get bonded now and avoid delays. Secure Your Texas Overweight Bond →

How to Get a Texas Overweight Permit Bond

Getting your overweight permit bond is fast, simple, and only takes a few minutes. Follow these steps to stay compliant and keep your haul moving.

1. Find Your Bond

Select the Texas Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit Bond from our portal.

2. Pay $100 Flat Rate

Complete the short form and pay a one-time $100 fee. No hidden charges.

3. Download Your Bond Instantly

Get your bond emailed the same day. Print it and submit it with your permit application.

Why 1,000s of Texas drivers choose us:

• Same-Day Approval – Get bonded within hours
• Transparent Pricing – No hidden charges
•  Best Rates – Lowest price you will find
• Credit-Friendly – Soft checks protect your score
•  24/7 Bond Support – Help when you need it

Ready to Haul? Secure Your Bond in 3 Quick Steps →

Get Your Texas Overweight Permit Bond Today!

Texas offers many overweight permits, but most require a $15,000 bond to stay legal. Without it, you risk delays, fines, or permit denial.
At TMD Surety Bonds, we make bonding fast, affordable, and easy. Join thousands of Texas drivers who trust our team for same-day service with no hidden fees.

Don’t risk fines or downtime. Secure Your Bond in Minutes →

FAQs About Texas Overweight Permits and Bonds

Answers to common questions about Texas oversize and overweight bonds.

How Much Is an Overweight Permit Bond in Texas?

The Overweight Permit Bond costs $100 for a one-year term. TxDMV requires a $15,000 bond, but you only pay a flat $100 through TMD.
There are no hidden fees or extra charges. You can buy the bond online in minutes and download it the same day.

How Long Does an Overweight Permit Bond Last?

An Overweight Permit bond lasts one year from the date of issue. You need to renew the bond each year to stay compliant in Texas.
If the bond expires, your permit is no longer valid. TxDMV will not accept expired bonds with renewal applications.

Can I Apply for an Overweight Permit Without the Bond?

No. You must secure the bond before applying for overweight permits that require it. The TxDMV will deny your permit if the bond is not on file.
This requirement applies to permit types tied to Texas road damage risk.

Why Is an Overweight Permit Bond Required in Texas?

The $15,000 bond protects the state from road damage caused by overweight loads. TxDMV requires a bond before issuing special overweight permits.
If your load damages the road, the state can file a claim. You must repay the amount if the surety pays out.

What Are the Penalties for Driving Without an Overweight Permit in Texas?

Driving in Texas without a valid overweight permit can result in fines. The amount depends on how many pounds you exceed.
Officers can stop your vehicle, inspect your load, and issue penalties on the spot. If you’re caught without a permit, you may face:

• Fines up to $10,000
• Vehicle impoundment
• License suspension
• Permit denial for repeat offenses
• Delays from roadside inspections or route shutdowns

Texas law requires a permit and a $15,000 bond before hauling overweight loads. Skip either one, and you risk more than a fine.