Department of Transportation
PennDOT
Pennsylvania • United States of America
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) manages over 44,800 miles of state-maintained roads — the second largest state highway system in the US — serving a major Northeast freight corridor. Key freight routes include I-76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike), I-78, I-80, I-81, I-83, and I-95. Pennsylvania's position between New York, Maryland, Ohio, and New Jersey makes it a critical node in East Coast freight movement. PennDOT administers commercial vehicle permits through PAPAVE, manages bridge weight limits across thousands of structures, and provides 511PA for real-time traffic and road condition updates essential for freight carriers transiting the state.
| Official Website | https://www.penndot.pa.gov/ |
|---|---|
| Data API | https://www.penndot.pa.gov/Doing-Business/OnlineServices/Pages/Developer-Resources.aspx |
| Founded | 1903 |
| Headquarters | Philadelphia |
Available Data
Social Media
- @511PAStatewide — 511PA Statewide
Pennsylvania Trucking Regulations
Size & weight limits, OS/OW permits, and seasonal restrictions for commercial vehicles
Weight Limits
| Category | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80000 lbs |
| Single Axle | 20000 lbs |
| Tandem Axle | 34000 lbs |
Dimensional Limits
| Category | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Height | 13.5 ft |
| Max Width | 8.5 ft |
| Max Length (Single Unit) | 40 ft |
| Max Length (Combination) | 65 ft |
OS/OW Permits
Seasonal Restrictions Feb, Mar, Apr
Pennsylvania has one of the most extensive spring weight restriction programs in the eastern US. Postings typically begin in February on state and township roads and continue through April, with timing varying significantly by county and elevation. PennDOT publishes a Spring Thaw Restriction map; carrier compliance is strictly enforced.
Weigh Station Bypass
79¢/gal
Member
Special Exemptions
Notable Rules
Pennsylvania has the highest diesel fuel tax rate in the United States. Oversize loads on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) require a separate Turnpike permit in addition to the PennDOT OS/OW permit. Mountain crossings including I-80, I-78 (Lehigh Gap), and the PA Turnpike tunnels present challenges in winter. Low clearance bridges are common on rural routes.