How to Apply for Oregon Single-Trip Permits

Nov. 16, 2025, 10:31 a.m.
Any carrier moving oversize or overweight (OS/OW) loads through Oregon must secure the proper permits before entering the state. Oregon’s Motor Carrier Transportation Division (MCTD) issues Single-Trip Permits for loads that exceed standard size, weight, or configuration limits. Below is a step-by-step guide that breaks the process down clearly for fleets, brokers, and owner-operators.
Oregon Single-Trip Permits

1. What Is an Oregon Single-Trip Permit?

An Oregon Single-Trip Permit authorizes a one-time movement of an oversize or overweight load over a specific route. It’s valid for:

  • One move

  • One direction

  • Up to 10 days (from the issue date)

  • A defined vehicle configuration and load

This permit is used when a load does not qualify for annual permits or exceeds annual permit thresholds.

2. When You Need a Single-Trip Permit

You must apply for a single-trip permit if your vehicle or load exceeds:

  • Width: Over 8’6”

  • Height: Over 14’

  • Length: Over 40’ (single unit) or 65’ (combination)

  • Weight: Over 80,000 lbs GVW

  • Axle/GVW limits: Exceeds MCTD axle group limits

  • Bridge/route requirements: Needs specific routing or analysis

Most heavy haul, equipment, modular, and machinery loads will fall into this category.

3. Documents & Information Needed Before You Apply

Before starting your application, you must have:

Vehicle Details

  • Power unit plate and VIN

  • Trailer/jeep/booster information

  • Axle counts and spacing

  • Tire sizes

  • Axle weights and overall gross weight

Load Details

  • Commodity type

  • Dimensions (width, height, length, front/rear overhang)

  • Whether it’s divisible or non-divisible

Routing Information

  • Origin and destination

  • Proposed route (if known)

  • Whether you must avoid certain bridges, tunnels, or city streets

Carrier Account Information

  • USDOT number

  • Oregon Weight Receipt & Tax Identifier (if operating regularly in OR)

  • Insurance on file with MCTD

4. How to Apply for an Oregon Single-Trip Permit

Oregon offers three main methods to obtain a single-trip permit:

Method 1: Apply Online (Fastest) – www.oregontruckingonline.org

 

Steps:

  1.  Go to www.oregontruckingonline.org

  2. Select Get a Permit

  3. Enter vehicle, weight, and load dimensions.

  4. Submit your axle group data.

  5. Choose or request routing (system may auto-route).

  6. Review permit requirements (pilot cars, travel times, restrictions).

  7. Pay the permit fee.

  8. Download and print your permit.

Online is the preferred method and the quickest for same-day approval.

Method 2: Apply by Phone  

You can call  directly:

  • 503-386-4187 

Be ready with:

  • Axle spacing and weights

  • Dimensions

  • Routing preferences

Phone permits are common for carriers with complex heavy-haul routing or last-minute changes.

 

5. Permit Fees

Fees depend on:

  • Type of permit (oversize vs overweight vs combo)

  • Weight groups

  • Route length

  • Required analyses or escorts

Typical range:

  • $80 – $700+ for most single-trip oversize

  • Heavy haul or overweight: higher based on GVW and axle groups

6. Travel Restrictions for Single-Trip Permits

Oregon enforces strict rules for permitted loads:

Time-of-Day Restrictions

  • Many oversize loads cannot travel at night.

  • Some may travel only sunrise to sunset.

Weekend & Holiday Restrictions

  • Over-dimension loads may be restricted on:

    • Sundays

    • Major holidays

    • Holiday weekends

Weather Restrictions

Oregon frequently restricts OS/OW loads during:

  • Snow

  • Ice

  • High winds

  • Mountain pass closures

Urban Area Restrictions

Large loads may have restricted hours in:

  • Portland metro

  • Eugene

  • Salem

7. Escort / Pilot Car Requirements

If your load exceeds:

  • Width: 14 ft

  • Height: 14 ft 8 in

  • Length: 120 ft

  • Rear overhang: 20 ft

You may be required to use:

  • 1 pilot car

  • 2 pilot cars

  • Or certified escorts depending on route

These requirements will appear on the permit.

8. Printing & Carrying Your Permit

You must:

  • Carry the permit in the vehicle

  • Provide it to law enforcement upon request

  • Follow all listed routing, speed limits, and restrictions

  • Stop at required checkpoints

Failure to comply can lead to:

  • Heavy fines

  • Load stoppage

  • Out-of-service orders

  • Damage liability for bridges or infrastructure

9. Tips for Faster Approval

  • Prepare axle spacing ahead of time.

  • Avoid last-minute calls—online is quicker.

  • Double-check height measurements (Oregon is strict).

  • Know your exact routing to reduce permit changes.

  • Use a professional permit service for heavy haul or multi-state moves.