Permits for Over Dimensional Vehicles
Unless otherwise signed, vehicles not exceeding the size and weight restrictions are permitted to travel on most city roadways providing that they are following the Truck Route Network.
Maximum dimensions:
- 13 feet 6 inches tall
- 8 feet wide
- 55 feet long (tractor plus trailer, bumper to bumper)
- 35 feet long (single unit vehicles such as box trucks and campers, bumper to bumper)
Vehicles exceeding the maximum dimensions must obtain a Daily Over Dimensional Vehicles Permit for each portion of a trip. For example, one permit is needed to travel to a destination within the city, and another is needed to travel back out.
Refer to the Truck Access and Vehicle Dimension Guidelines (pdf) for classification and requirements.
Over Dimensional Permits are payable to NYC DOT by certified bank check or money order only. Overnight payments are accepted for a fee of $35 each. 48-hours lead time is needed from the date of the receipt of the application and applicable payment. Download the Daily Over Dimensional Permit Application Form (pdf) Apply for an Over Dimensional Vehicle Permit Online Translations of NYC DOT Licenses, Permit Applications & Registrations
For help with Daily Over Dimensional Permits, please contact NYC DOT at 212-839-6341.
Ordering Per-Trip Daily Over Dimensional Permits
Please provide the following on original company letterhead. Make sure that the letter is signed and dated:
- full company name and address
- Federal Tax ID number
- company contact person, as well as the individual who will be mentioned in the actual agreement
- company email address where the completed permits can be emailed to
- telephone and fax numbers
- the number of over-dimensional permits you will order per month or on a two-month basis.
MTA Permits
MTA Bridge Letters for over dimensional trucks/vehicle combinations are processed through NYC DOT's Over Dimensional Vehicle Permit processing online system. Paper and faxed Bridge Letters are not accepted. All vehicles that exceed the bridge formula, 80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW), or any other NYC legal dimension, require an NYC DOT permit to travel through/in New York City. If the route includes an MTA structure, NYC DOT will coordinate the approval process for that structure with the MTA. Access NYC DOT’s Over Dimensional Vehicle Permit Processing System Learn more about Trucks and Commercial Vehicles on MTA Bridges and Tunnels
Special Handling Permit from MTA
Vehicles weighing over 80,000 pounds may require a Special Handling Permit from MTA Bridges and Tunnels.
For more information on obtaining Special Handling Permits from the MTA, email cpo@mtabt.org or call 212-360-3000.
Truck Regulations at Other Agencies
Other enforcement and transportation agencies in the region may have different regulations and requirements pertaining to trucks. Truck restrictions can vary by facility. Use the contact information below to check before you travel.
One Stop Credential and Registration
The One Stop Credentialing and Registration (OSCAR) system provides motor carriers with a single website and point of contact to apply, change, pay for, and receive required New York State operating credentials online.
One Stop Credentialing and Registration (OSCAR)
Area Truck Contacts
| Contact | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| NYSDOT Carrier Assistance | 718-482-4754 |
| New York State Central Permit Office | 518-457-1155 |
| Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Including the Bayonne, George Washington and Goethals Bridges, the Lincoln Tunnel and the Outerbridge Crossing. |
212-435-7000 |
| MTA Bridges and Tunnels Truck Permitting Unit Including the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, Queens Midtown Tunnel, and the Throgs Neck, Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, Verrazano-Narrows and Whitestone Bridges, and other MTA bridges and tunnels. |
212-360-3000 |
| NYC311 New York City's hotline for government information and non-emergency services |
From outside NYC 212-NEW-YORK |
| NJDOT NJDOT Permits for oversize/overweight vehicles along state routes |
609-530-6089 |
USDOT Numbers
All trucks and truck/trailers with a gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight of 10,001 pounds or more for business purposes in New York State are required to have a valid USDOT number.
Vehicles must be marked on both sides with the legal business name or DBA as it appears on the USDOT number registration. Lettering must contrast with the background color of your vehicle and be readable from 50 feet (minimum of 2 inches high recommended).
Example:
ABC LAWN CARE SERVICE
USDOT 123456
Visit New York State Department of Transportation's (NYSDOT) Truck and Motor Carrier Safety page to learn more about the new marking requirements.
Obtaining a USDOT number is simple and free. You can receive your USDOT number immediately by registering online with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Online Registration and Licensing System. All that is needed is a valid credit card (there is no charge, the card serves as an electronic signature).