How to read a Vermont oversize permit
Vermont DMV issues oversize and overweight permits online through VT Haul Pass, launched in January 2026, which checks road and bridge restrictions as it routes. A Vermont single trip permit moves a nondivisible load between specified points over a route the Commissioner prescribes, and each permit designates the routes or areas you may travel.
Issued by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, Commercial Vehicle Operations through VT Haul Pass. Written from Vermont DMV's published rules; we haven't read a real Vermont permit yet.
How to read the route
Vermont has not published a sample permit, so the layout of the route is not known. DMV's rules say each permit designates the routes or areas to be traveled and may contain special restrictions. Loads are routed over the widest roads available, and DMV looks for the most direct route through and outside Vermont. Drive only the routes your permit names.
Road names on Vermont permits
| On the permit | Means |
|---|---|
| I-91 | Interstate 91 |
| US Route 7 | US Highway 7 |
| VT Route 9 | Vermont state highway 9 |
| Exit Number 8 on I-91 | Interstate exit 8, as DMV's rules name interstate exits |
| Class 1 town highway | A town road the state still permits; other town roads can need a permit from the town |
Where the route starts and ends
DMV's rules describe a single trip as a move 'between specified points'. How VT Haul Pass prints the start and end is not published.
Conditions to watch for
Daylight only
Over-width, over-length and over-height loads move only from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Overweight-only loads that keep up with traffic are not limited to daylight. Source
“restricted to daylight hours and movement shall be made between thirty (30) minutes before sunrise to thirty (30) minutes after sunset”
Weekends and holidays
On state highways, unless your permit says otherwise, loads over 108,000 lbs, over 12 ft wide or over 100 ft long don't move on Saturdays, Sundays, New Year's Day, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas. DMV can add restrictions before and after holidays. Source
“permits will not be issued for movement of loads in excess of one hundred eight thousand (108,000) pounds”
Escorts
Escorts are required at 12 ft wide or more, 80 ft long or more, or 15 ft of overhang or more, or when DMV says so. One escort goes ahead on undivided highways and behind on divided highways. Source
“When one escort is required, it shall precede a load on undivided highways and follow the load on divided highways.”
OVERSIZE LOAD sign
Over 8 ft 6 in wide, 13 ft 6 in high or 75 ft long, show an OVERSIZE LOAD sign, at least 7 ft by 18 in, black on yellow, front and rear. Cover or remove it when you are not oversize. Source
“The sign must be covered or removed when not making an oversize move.”
Flags
All oversize loads need bright or fluorescent red or orange flags, at least 18 by 18 inches, on all four corners. Overhangs over 4 ft get flags at the end. Source
“Flags are required on all oversize loads.”
Carry the permit
Keep the permit, or a readable copy, in the truck during the move. Source
“The permit, or a legible permit facsimile, must be carried in the vehicle.”
Easy to miss
- Road postings win. During thaws and rainy periods the state may post highways, and DMV's rules say permits do not supersede road postings.
- Town roads: for overweight moves, the state permits state highways and Class 1 town highways, but Class 2, 3 and 4 and other posted town highways need a permit from the town.
- Weather for loads 12 ft wide or 80 ft long and up: no travel in ice, sleet, freezing rain, slush, snow that sticks, or visibility under a quarter mile. If it starts mid-trip, exit at the first safe place and wait.
Questions
Can I move an oversize load on a Saturday in Vermont?
Not on state highways if the load is over 108,000 lbs, over 12 ft wide or over 100 ft long, unless your permit says otherwise. Smaller oversize loads still travel only in daylight.
When do I need an escort in Vermont?
At 12 ft wide or more, 80 ft long or more, or 15 ft of overhang or more, or when DMV requires one. A single escort runs ahead on undivided highways and behind on divided highways.
How do I get a Vermont oversize permit online?
Through VT Haul Pass at vthaulpass.vermont.gov. DMV says you can apply, pay and receive the permit there, including emergency moves outside business hours.
Sources
Your permit is the legal document; follow everything it says. Rules change; check Vermont DMV's site before you move.Last checked October 2026.