Iowa Oversize & Overweight Permits
Legal to 8'6" wide, 13'6" high, 80,000 lb, 53' trailer. Over that you permit up; single-trip runs about $35, annuals climb past $400. Small wins here: up to 100' long, 11' wide, 14'6" high you can run 24/7 on wide roads with lighting. Bigger loads move a half hour either side of daylight, weekends included, and shut down at noon the day before major holidays. Two-lane roads pull a front escort over 14'6" wide.
A detail here is flagged medium confidence — confirm with the state permit office before you rely on it.
When Iowa needs a permit
Legal to 8'6" wide, 13'6" high, 80,000 lb, 53' trailer. Over that you permit up; single-trip runs about $35, annuals climb past $400. Small wins here: up to 100' long, 11' wide, 14'6" high you can run 24/7 on wide roads with lighting. Bigger loads move a half hour either side of daylight, weekends included, and shut down at noon the day before major holidays. Two-lane roads pull a front escort over 14'6" wide.
Thresholds, escorts, and curfews
- Legal max before a permit: Permit needed over 8'6" wide, over 13'6" high, over 80,000 lb, or over 45' single unit / 53' trailer (57' lowboy for construction equipment).
- Escort / pilot car: On two-lane roads a front escort is required over 14'6" wide (or when a wide load takes more than half the roadway). On four-lane roads, 14'6"–16'6" needs one rear escort or two amber lights, and over 16'6" needs one escort. Pole car for over-height loads.
- Superload: Loads beyond the standard permit envelope are superloads needing route and structural review, not a same-day desk permit. Iowa publishes no single fixed number; expect bridge analysis and lead time on the heaviest and largest moves.
- Travel curfew: Up to 100' long, 11' wide, 14'6" high you can run 24/7 on roads at least 22' wide with proper lighting. Larger loads move a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset, weekends included. No travel from noon the day before major holidays and holiday weekends.
- Permit fee: Single-trip about $35. Annual permits climb past $400. Fees vary by size, weight, and route.
Iowa Oversize Permit FAQ
When do I need an oversize permit in Iowa?
Does Iowa require a pilot car or escort?
Can I move an oversize load at night or on weekends in Iowa?
What does an oversize permit cost in Iowa?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://iowadot.gov/motor-carriers/how-do-i-get-oversize-overweight-permits/permit-requirements. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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