Alaska Truck Weight Limits
Alaska doesn't set one fixed gross number. Legal weight is figured off axle count and spacing using a state bridge-formula table (17 AAC 25.013), so a long enough rig legally grosses well past 80,000. The state is looser on axles too - off the Interstate a tandem carries 38,000 pounds versus the federal 34,000, and a tridem 42,000. Overweight fines run per pound over (AS 19.10.060).
Some figures on this page are flagged medium confidence. The weight limits are solid, but a specific fine or permit ceiling should be confirmed with the state DOT before you rely on it.
How much a truck can weigh in Alaska
Alaska doesn't set one fixed gross number. Legal weight is figured off axle count and spacing using a state bridge-formula table (17 AAC 25.013), so a long enough rig legally grosses well past 80,000. The state is looser on axles too - off the Interstate a tandem carries 38,000 pounds versus the federal 34,000, and a tridem 42,000. Overweight fines run per pound over (AS 19.10.060).
Axles, off-Interstate, and permits
- Off the Interstate: No single fixed maximum - legal gross is set by axle count and spacing under the state bridge-formula table (17 AAC 25.013). A long enough, properly-spaced combination legally grosses well past 80,000 lb.
- Single axle: 20,000 lb
- Tandem axle: 34,000 lb on the Interstate (federal); the state table allows up to 38,000 lb on a tandem off the Interstate (tridem up to 42,000 lb, 4-axle group up to 50,000 lb)
- With a permit: No fixed statutory ceiling; allowable weight rises with axles and spacing under the bridge-formula table. A one-year overweight permit (about $500) allows up to 125% of legal tire, axle, or gross weight.
- Fine schedule and penalty statute cite are medium-confidence; a bill to raise the per-pound amounts was pending as of 2026. Interstate weights above 80,000 rely on Alaska's grandfather status under 23 USC 127.
Posted bridge and road limits
Bridges and local roads are posted with MUTCD R12 signs; 'WEIGHT LIMIT X TONS' is short tons (2,000 lb), so 10 TONS = 20,000 lb. Seasonal frost/thaw restrictions are common and are posted or bulletined by Alaska DOT&PF. A posted limit overrides the legal maximum, and crossing a posted bridge over its limit is a separate violation with liability for structural damage.
What running heavy costs
Per pound over the limit: 1,001-2,000 over = $100; 2,001-4,000 = 7 cents/lb; 4,001-6,000 = 9 cents/lb; 6,001-10,000 = 12 cents/lb; 10,001 lb and over = 15 cents/lb. A pending legislative amendment would raise these to a $150 base and 8-24 cents/lb.
Alaska Truck Weight Limit FAQ
What is the truck weight limit in Alaska?
How much can a truck weigh with a permit in Alaska?
What is the overweight fine in Alaska?
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://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/alaska/17-AAC-25.013. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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