Temporary Weight Increase Permit in Kentucky

Nov. 1, 2025, 7:02 p.m.
When your trucking operation occasionally needs to move heavier loads than normally allowed, the Temporary Weight Increase Permit offered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) provides a legal and flexible solution. This permit allows carriers to exceed their registered weight temporarily without permanently altering their vehicle registration or base weight. Below is a detailed guide explaining when and how to obtain this permit, what it covers, and how to stay compliant on Kentucky roads.
Temporary Weight Increase Permit in Kentucky

1. What Is a Temporary Weight Increase Permit?

A Temporary Weight Increase Permit (TWIP) authorizes a truck or combination vehicle to operate above its registered weight for a specific period. It is ideal for carriers with seasonal or short-term hauling needs that require additional capacity.

This permit helps avoid the cost and administrative hassle of permanently increasing a truck’s registered weight when the need is temporary — for example, during harvest season or special construction projects.

2. When You Need It

You’ll need a Temporary Weight Increase Permit if you plan to:

  • Transport loads exceeding your truck’s licensed gross weight.

  • Operate in Kentucky temporarily with a heavier-than-normal cargo.

  • Carry seasonal agricultural, construction, or industrial materials beyond your standard registration weight.

Note: If your total weight exceeds state or federal maximum limits (80,000 lbs), you may need an Overweight Permit instead of or in addition to this one.

3. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the permit, carriers must:

  • Hold a valid Kentucky base registration or apportioned plate (IRP).

  • Maintain current insurance and KYU number (if required).

  • Have no outstanding tax or permit violations in Kentucky.

  • Provide accurate vehicle identification (VIN, license plate, unit number).

4. Permit Duration and Limits

  • Duration: Usually issued for 30, 60, or 90 days.

  • Maximum allowable increase: Depends on your axle configuration and manufacturer ratings.

  • Renewable: Can be renewed if you continue to need the extra weight capacity.

KYTC ensures the increase does not violate bridge or roadway safety limits.

5. How to Apply for a Temporary Weight Increase Permit

You can apply through the www.kentuckytruckingonline.com or by calling (502) 842-1467

 

6. Fees and Payment

The permit fee depends on:

  • The amount of weight increase requested.

  • The duration of the permit.

  • The type of vehicle and registration class.

Payments can be made electronically through the  www.kentuckytruckingonline.com.

7. Compliance and Enforcement

Drivers must:

  • Carry a copy of the permit in the vehicle at all times.

  • Stay within the approved weight limits and validity dates.

  • Present the permit to enforcement officers upon request.

Operating without a valid permit can result in:

  • Fines and citations

  • Vehicle impoundment

  • Loss of KYU operating privileges

8. Key Takeaway

The Temporary Weight Increase Permit is a cost-effective solution for trucking companies that occasionally need to exceed their registered vehicle weight. It helps businesses remain flexible while staying fully compliant with Kentucky’s trucking laws.

Applying through the www.kentuckytruckingonline.com is quick and ensures you have the legal coverage you need for heavier hauls — without the long-term costs of re-registering your truck.