Annual vs Single Trip Trucking Permits in Oregon

Oct. 30, 2025, 1:28 p.m.
Trucking permits in Oregon are managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Motor Carrier Transportation Division (MCTD). These permits allow carriers to legally move oversize or overweight (OS/OW) loads on Oregon’s highway system.
Annual vs Single Trip Trucking Permits in Oregon

The two main types are:

  • Single-Trip Permits, for one-time hauls

  • Annual (Continuous Operation) Permits, for recurring moves within set limits


2. Single-Trip Permits

Purpose:
A Single-Trip Permit authorizes one specific trip for an oversize or overweight vehicle along a designated route in Oregon.

Key Details:

  • Validity: Up to 10 consecutive days.

  • Coverage: One round trip between the approved origin and destination.

  • When Required:

    • Load exceeds legal size or weight limits:

      • Width: over 8’6”

      • Height: over 14’

      • Length: over 40’ (single vehicle) or 65’ (combination)

      • Weight: over 80,000 lbs gross (or per-axle limits)

  • Route: ODOT assigns a specific route to protect roads and bridges.

  • Escort Requirements: May be needed for extreme dimensions.

  • Cost: Typically around $100–$250 for oversize or $200–$400 for overweight (depending on dimensions and route).

  • Apply:  www.oregontruckingonline.org OR (503) 386-4187

When to Use:

  • Moving a single piece of equipment or machinery one time.

  • Occasional hauls by out-of-state carriers.

  • Construction or heavy machinery relocations.

Pros:

  • Lower initial cost.

  • Quick approval for one-time use.

Cons:

  • Must reapply for every trip.

  • Limited to one specific route and timeframe.


3. Annual (Continuous Operation) Permits

Purpose:
An Annual Permit (also called a Continuous Operation Permit) allows regular movement of loads that are slightly oversize or overweight within defined limits, valid for a full year.

Key Details:

  • Validity: 12 months from date of issue.

  • Coverage: Unlimited trips on approved highways and routes.

  • Eligible Loads:

    • Width up to 14’

    • Height up to 14’6”

    • Length up to 105’ (depending on vehicle type)

    • Weight up to legal tolerances defined in ODOT tables (usually ≤ 105,500 lbs on 8+ axles).

  • Routes: Covers most state highways—ODOT maintains a statewide route map for annual permit use.

  • Cost: Usually $80 per vehicle per year for oversize, and $600–$1000 for overweight (depending on configuration).

  • Apply: www.oregontruckingonline.org OR (503) 386-4187

When to Use:

  • Carriers running the same routes frequently.

  • Companies hauling utility poles, manufactured homes, or regular equipment shipments.

  • Fleet operations needing continuous legal coverage.

Pros:

  • Saves time on frequent hauls.

  • Cost-effective for long-term operations.

  • Simplifies compliance management.

Cons:

  • Not valid for extreme loads or special routes.

  • Must adhere to route restrictions and maximum size/weight limits.


4. Comparison Table

Feature Single-Trip Permit Annual (Continuous Operation) Permit
Validity Up to 10 days 12 months
Trips Covered One (specific route) Unlimited (approved routes)
Best For One-time or occasional hauls Frequent or repeat hauls
Approval Time Usually same-day Longer initial processing
Cost $80–$200 per trip $400–$1000 per year
Route Flexibility Designated per trip Pre-approved statewide routes
Ideal Users Independent or out-of-state carriers Regular Oregon-based haulers

5. Application Process

You can apply online through the

www.oregontruckingonline.org OR (503) 386-4187

You’ll need:

  • Vehicle registration details

  • Axle configuration and weight info

  • Exact load dimensions

  • Proposed route (for single-trip)

  • Payment information


6. Compliance Tips

  • Always carry the valid permit in the vehicle.

  • Check ODOT’s Route Restrictions Map before travel — construction or weather may close some segments.

  • Follow escort and signage requirements exactly.

  • Renew annual permits early to avoid coverage gaps.