How to Get a Texas Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit
This Texas Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit guide is for informational purposes only. SuretyBonds.com does not regulate or manage licensing for overweight motor carriers in Texas. Contact the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles for the latest official requirements.
According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Code 219.30, a motor carrier must receive a permit before operating vehicles over certain axle and gross weight limits.
The application process with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) is straightforward, but does require motor carriers to be bonded with a surety company. Simply follow the three steps below to receive your official Texas Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit.
How Do I Get an Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit in Texas?
Step 1: Register Your Vehicle With the Texas DMV
To be eligible for a permit, you must first register your vehicle according to Texas Transportation Code Chapter 502. Apply through the TxDMV Permitting System Website or by mail to the address below:
Weight Tolerance Permit
Motor Carrier Division
P.O. Box 13529
Austin, Texas 78711-3529
Step 2: Purchase a $15,000 Surety Bond Form 1753
You must purchase and file surety bond form 1753 with the TxDMV before you can be eligible for a permit to operate an over axle or overweight vehicle.
Buy your $15,000 Texas weight tolerance permit bond from SuretyBonds.com for just $100. Alternatively, you can file an Irrevocable Letter of Credit with the Texas DMV.
Step 3: Pay Permit Application Fees
Pay the $95 base and administration fees and additional charges based on the number of counties for which you're applying. See the county fees listed below for more information.
You can include a check or money order with your physical application or pay by card or ACH for online applications.
Step 4: Submit Your Permit Application
There are two ways to submit your permit application:
- Apply and pay online through TxPROS.
- Mail the Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit Application: Form MCD-1751 to the address listed on the form.
If you submit by mail, you must include the original bond form, a check or money order and the completed MCD-1751 form.
How Much Does a Texas Over Axle and Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit Cost?
The base fee for a Weight Tolerance Permit is $90 plus an additional $5 administration fee for a total of $95. Additional fees increase depending on the amount of counties in which you plan to operate:
- 1–5 Counties: $175
- 6–20 Counties: $250
- 21–40 Counties: $450
- 41–60 Counties: $625
- 61–80 Counties: $800
- 81–100 Counties: $900
- 101–254 Counties: $1,000
Who Needs a Texas Weight Tolerance Permit?
If you plan to operate a vehicle exceeding the legal axle weight by a tolerance of 10% or the legal gross weight by a tolerance of 5% on any county road or Texas state highway, you must get a surety bond and permit.
Be sure to verify the size and weight limit requirements before you apply for this permit.
How Do I Renew My Weight Tolerance Permit in Texas?
Texas Weight Tolerance Permits expire after one year. Renew your permit annually by re-submitting the MCD-1751 application form and payment.
You can also renew your surety bond annually or save time and money by purchasing a multi-year term bond.
What Are the Over Axle & Overweight Limits in Texas?
Height Maximum Limit
- On Holidays: 16 feet
- Without a Route Inspection Certification: 18 feet, 11 inches
Width Maximum Limit
- On Holidays: 14 feet, with the exception of manufactured housing
- On Controlled Access Highways: 16 feet, with the exception of manufactured housing
- Without a Route Inspection Certification: 20 feet
Length Maximum Limit
- On Holidays: 110 feet
- Truck or Single Vehicle: 75 feet
- Front Overhang: 25 feet
- Rear Overhang: 30 feet
- Without a Route Inspection Certification: 125 feet
Weight Maximum Limit
The maximum weight limit for permit holders is based on the lesser of either 650 pounds per inch of tire width or the axle group weight below:
- Single Axle: 25,000 lbs
- Two Axle: 46,000 lbs
- Three Axle: 60,000 lbs
- Four Axle: 70,000 lbs
- Five Axle: 81,400 lbs
- Six Axle or More: Determined by MCD based on engineering review of the equipment and measurements.
Last Updated: April 1, 2024
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