Kentucky Weight and Dimension Limits for Commercial Vehicles

Jan. 23, 2026, 7:29 p.m.
Kentucky regulates the weight and size of commercial vehicles to ensure the safety of roads, bridges, and the traveling public. Understanding these limits is crucial for trucking companies and drivers to stay compliant and avoid fines.
Kentucky Weight and Dimension Limits for Commercial Vehicles

1. Legal Weight Limits (Permit-Free)

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW):

  • Standard maximum: 80,000 lbs on interstate highways.

Axle Weight Limits:

  • Single axle: Up to 20,000 lbs

  • Tandem axle: Up to 34,000 lbs

  • Tridem axle: Up to 51,000 lbs

Weight limits may vary depending on axle spacing and bridge formulas. Overweight loads require special permits.

2. Legal Dimension Limits (Permit-Free)

Width:

  • Maximum: 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches)

Height:

  • Maximum: 13 feet 6 inches

Length:

  • Single unit truck: Up to 40 feet

  • Truck and semitrailer combination: Up to 53 feet

  • Overall combination length: Depends on vehicle type and highway designation

Overhang:

  • Front: 3 feet maximum

  • Rear: Up to 6 feet, depending on vehicle type

3. When Permits Are Required

Kentucky requires an oversize/overweight permit when a vehicle exceeds any of the limits above, including:

  • Weight over 80,000 lbs GVW

  • Axle weights above the legal limit

  • Vehicle width over 8’6”

  • Height over 13’6”

  • Length over 53 feet (for standard combinations)

Permits can be single-trip, annual, or superload depending on the load size and frequency.

4. Special Considerations

  1. Superloads

    • Extremely heavy or large loads may require route surveys and escort vehicles.

  2. Seasonal Restrictions

    • Some roads have weight limits in spring to protect bridges and asphalt during thaw.

  3. Bridge Formula Compliance

    • Kentucky enforces federal bridge formulas for axles to prevent structural damage.

5. Tips for Kentucky Trucking Compliance

  • Always check current KYTC regulations before transport.

  • Obtain oversize/overweight permits in advance for heavy or large loads.

  • Use escort/pilot vehicles when required.

  • Keep documentation accessible during inspections.

Key Takeaways

  • Kentucky allows up to 80,000 lbs GVW and 8’6” width without a permit.

  • Oversize/overweight loads require permits and may include special routing and escort requirements.

  • Compliance ensures safe transport, avoids fines, and protects bridges and roads.

 

 

Kentucky Weight and Dimension Limits for Commercial Vehicles

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