How to apply for Kentucky single-trip permits

Dec. 11, 2025, 3:47 p.m.
A Kentucky Single-Trip Permit allows carriers to move one specific oversize or overweight load on a defined route within a set time period. These permits are typically required when your vehicle or load exceeds Kentucky’s legal size or weight limits. This guide explains who needs it, what information is required, and how to complete the application.
Kentucky single trip permits

Who Needs a Kentucky Single-Trip Permit?

You must obtain a single-trip permit if your load exceeds:

  • Width: over 8 ft. 6 in.

  • Height: over 13 ft. 6 in.

  • Length: over 65 ft. (varies by configuration)

  • Weight: over 80,000 lbs. gross or over legal axle weights

You also need a permit if:

  • You are hauling construction equipment

  • You are transporting a mobile or modular home

  • The load is non-divisible and cannot be reduced to legal limits

Information Needed to Apply

Prepare the following:

  • Carrier name and contact info

  • USDOT number

  • Truck and trailer plate/registration info

  • VIN (sometimes required)

  • Axle weights and spacings

  • Overall loaded dimensions (height, width, length, GVW)

  • Origin and destination

  • Proposed travel dates

  • Preferred route (optional—KY may adjust)

  • Load description (e.g., excavator, transformer, structure)

How to Apply for a Kentucky Single-Trip Permit

Kentucky issues oversize/overweight permits through the Kentucky Highway Permits Online System (KHPOS).

You can apply in two ways:

 Apply Online Through KHPOS (Fastest Method)

This is the most common and recommended option.

Steps:

1. Go to https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/

You’ll enter:

  • Business info

  • Contact details

  • USDOT number

2. Log in and select “Single Trip Permit”

Then choose Oversize, Overweight, or OS/OW combined depending on your load.

3. Enter vehicle & load details

The system will ask for:

  • Axles & weights

  • Dimensions

  • Description of the load

4. Request your route

You can enter preferred roads.

5. Review any restrictions

Kentucky may require:

  • Pilot cars

  • Limited travel hours

  • Routing around bridges or low clearances

6. Pay for the permit

Payment options usually include:

  • Credit/debit

  • Fleet/fuel cards

  • Business accounts (for returning carriers)

7. Download your permit

You must print it and carry it in the vehicle, or have it accessible electronically if allowed.

 

How Long Are Kentucky Single-Trip Permits Valid?

Typically:

  • Single-trip permits are valid for 10 days

  • Travel may be restricted to daylight hours for some OS loads

  • No travel may be allowed on certain holidays

Kentucky may also adjust validity based on weather or routing.

Consequences of Not Having a Permit

If you operate an oversize/overweight vehicle without a valid permit, Kentucky may issue:

  • Fines

  • Out-of-service orders

  • Required offloading or re-routing

  • Possible delays at weigh stations

Kentucky CVE (Commercial Vehicle Enforcement) is known for strict compliance checks.

Quick Summary

You need a KY single-trip permit if:

 Your load exceeds legal size/weight
 You are hauling a non-divisible load
 You are entering or traveling across Kentucky with an OS/OW vehicle

You can apply:

  1. Online through the https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/

  2.  Phone call (502) 842-1467

Validity:

  •  10 days

Source:

https://drive.ky.gov/Motor-Carriers/Overweight-Over-Dimensional/Pages/OWOD-Legal-Dimensions.aspx