Who Needs a Trucking Permit in Kentucky?

Nov. 9, 2025, 6:56 p.m.
Operating a commercial truck in Kentucky often requires specific state-issued permits to ensure vehicles meet size, weight, and regulatory standards. Whether you’re an in-state carrier or an out-of-state trucker passing through, it’s essential to understand when a permit is legally required.
Trucking Permit in Kentucky

Vehicles Exceeding Legal Size or Weight Limits

Kentucky law sets maximum limits for vehicle size and weight on public highways. You’ll need a special permit if your truck or load exceeds any of the following:

  • Width: Over 8 feet 6 inches

  • Height: Over 13 feet 6 inches

  • Length: Over 65 feet (for a combination vehicle)

  • Weight: Over 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW) or bridge formula limits

If your vehicle exceeds any of these dimensions, you must obtain an Oversize or Overweight (OS/OW) Permit before traveling.

2. Out-of-State Carriers Without a Kentucky IFTA or IRP Registration

If your trucking company is based outside of Kentucky and your vehicle isn’t registered under:

  • The International Registration Plan (IRP), or

  • The International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)

then you’ll need to get:

  • A Temporary Trip Permit (for vehicle registration), and

  • A Temporary Fuel Permit (for fuel tax compliance).

These permits allow out-of-state carriers to operate legally in Kentucky without full registration.

3. Companies Hauling Special or Unusual Loads

Certain loads require special permits due to their nature or potential risks:

  • Hazardous materials

  • Manufactured homes or modular buildings

  • Construction or farm equipment

  • Towing multiple units or large machinery

Each of these categories has unique permitting and routing requirements managed by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).

4. Temporary or Seasonal Operators

Short-term trucking operations, such as seasonal hauls, construction projects, or disaster relief, also need permits if they exceed size/weight limits or cross state lines without full registration.

5. Intrastate vs. Interstate Operators

Even if you operate only within Kentucky, you may still need:

  • A Kentucky Intrastate Operating Authority

  • An OS/OW permit if your load is heavy or large

  • Proper insurance and safety compliance under state law

Interstate carriers, on the other hand, must ensure federal DOT compliance in addition to Kentucky permits.

In Summary

You’ll need a trucking permit in Kentucky if:

  • Your truck exceeds legal weight or size limits

  • You’re an out-of-state carrier without IFTA or IRP credentials

  • You transport hazardous or oversized materials

  • You operate temporarily or seasonally without full registration

Failing to obtain the proper permits can result in fines, impoundment, or travel delays, so always verify requirements before your trip.

 

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