Georgia OS/OD Overview
Permit Required
Yes – any load exceeding legal size or weight must have a permit from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). Single-trip and term permits are issued through GDOT's PartnerSmart oversize/overweight permit system.
Legal Limits (Without Permit)
- Width: 8'6"
- Height: 13'6"
- Length: 75' (combo); 53' trailer allowed
- Weight: 80,000 lbs GVW (standard axle limits apply)
Anything over a legal dimension or weight requires an oversize/overweight permit before the move. Superloads beyond routine permit limits require engineering review, route survey, and possible bridge analysis.
Travel Hours
- Standard: Over-dimensional loads generally move during daylight hours; specific time windows are set by GDOT on the issued permit.
- Holidays and conditions: Travel may be limited around holidays, peak-traffic periods, and through metro areas – confirm the conditions printed on your permit.
- Night travel: Generally not permitted for over-dimensional loads; verify lighting and route conditions on the issued permit.
Escort Requirements (General Guidelines)
| Dimension | Escort Requirement |
|---|---|
| Width 12' up to 14'8" | 1 front + 1 rear on 2-lane; 1 rear on 4-lane; 1 rear/amber on limited access |
| Width over 14'8" up to 16' | 1 front + 1 rear on 2-lane; 1 rear on limited access (over 16' is GDOT case-by-case) |
| Length over 75' up to 100' | 1 rear escort with amber light |
| Length over 100' up to 125' | 1 rear escort |
| Length over 125' | 1 front + 1 rear escort |
| Height 15'6" or greater | 1 front escort with vertical height indicator (height pole) |
Detailed Information
WIDTH ESCORTS: For loads 12' up to 14'8" wide: 1 front + 1 rear on 2-lane; 1 rear on 4-lane; 1 rear/amber on limited access. Over 14'8" up to 16' wide: 1 front + 1 rear on 2-lane; 1 rear on limited access. Over 16': GDOT case-by-case (houses require police front+rear).
LENGTH ESCORTS: Over 75 ft up to 100 ft: 1 rear escort with amber light required. Over 100 ft up to 125 ft: 1 rear escort required. Length over 125 ft: 1 front + 1 rear escort required.
HEIGHT POLE: 15'6" or greater: 1 front escort with vertical height indicator required.
ESCORT CERTIFICATION: Georgia DOT escort certification is required for qualifying moves (GAPROS program, effective Jan 1, 2011). Georgia accepts CO/WA/VA/UT/AZ certifications and reciprocates with NC/FL/OK/WA.
Additional Notes
- "Oversize Load" signs, red/orange flags, and amber warning lights are required on the load and escort vehicles per GDOT permit conditions.
- Loads over 16' wide are reviewed by GDOT case-by-case, and houses require a police front and rear escort.
- Permit conditions issued by GDOT govern the specific move and may impose requirements beyond these general thresholds.
Source: Georgia DOT — Oversize/Overweight Permits. Informational only — always verify against the live permit office before any move; permit conditions control.
