When transporting oversized or overweight loads throughout Illinois, compliance with state regulations is critical to ensure smooth and legal operations. At A Permits, we specialize in issuing all types of Illinois oversize permits, serving as a trusted partner for trucking companies navigating complex rules. This comprehensive guide details everything truckers and fleet operators need to know about Illinois Oversize Permits, including Illinois oversize and overweight permit requirements, application processes, costs, restrictions, and safety protocols. 

What Are Illinois Oversize Permits? 

Illinois Oversize Permits are official authorizations required for vehicles or loads that exceed the legal size or weight limits established by the state. These permits allow transporters to legally move loads beyond the standard length, width, height, or weight limits on Illinois highways and affected roadways. 

The main types of permits issued include: 

Illinois Oversize Permits for loads exceeding size limits 

Illinois Overweight Permits for loads heavier than allowed by law 

Illinois Overhang Permits for loads extending beyond the vehicle’s dimensions 

Illinois Single Trip Permits valid for one-time transport 

Illinois Annual Permits for repeated or continuous transports over a year 

All permits issued by A Permits are valid for five days unless otherwise specified, allowing sufficient time for delivery while maintaining legal compliance. 

Legal Size and Weight Limits in Illinois 

Illinois enforces specific dimension and weight limits internally and on designated highways: 

Length: Maximum 53 feet semi-trailer length on designated highways and 65 feet overall length on non-designated highways. Kingpin to rear axle must not exceed 45 feet 6 inches without a permit. 

Width: 8 feet 6 inches on designated highways; 8 feet on non-designated. 

Height: 13 feet 6 inches maximum legal height. 

Weight: 80,000 pounds gross; specific limits per axle group (Single – 20,000 lbs, Tandem – 34,000 lbs, Tridem – 42,500 lbs). 

For oversize or overweight loads beyond these limits, permits are mandatory. 

Illinois Routine Permit Limits and Superload Criteria 

Routine oversize permits allow wider and longer loads up to: 

Length: 145 feet 

Width: 14 feet 6 inches 

Height: 15 feet (subject to overhead clearance) 

Weight allowances increase accordingly (such as up to 60,000 pounds on tridem axles). Loads exceeding size or weight limits become superloads, which require detailed engineering reviews and special permits. For example: 

Loads over 100,000 pounds gross or 44,000 pounds on tandem groups 

Loads over 120,000 pounds gross or 48,000 pounds on any axle group 

Loads exceeding 16 feet wide or 17 feet high 

Superloads require extensive coordination including route surveys and utility company notifications. 

Illinois Oversize and Overweight Permit Application 

Applying for Illinois oversize permits and overweight permits is straightforward through the Illinois Transportation Automated Permit system (ITAP) or via experienced permit agencies like A Permits. Applicants typically provide: 

Load dimensions and weight 

Tractor and trailer configurations 

Planned route details including all counties and states traveled 

Most permits are issued almost immediately after submission unless special investigations are needed. A Permits offers a full-service Illinois oversize and overweight permit online application and permit login system that simplifies your permitting needs, ensuring accurate and timely approvals. 

Operating Times and Travel Restrictions in Illinois 

Loads up to 12 feet wide, 13 feet 6 inches high, and 200 feet long may operate 24/7 with one civilian escort during darkness. 

Loads up to 14 feet 6 inches wide and 15 feet high can travel from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset, seven days a week. 

Oversize loads exceeding these widths and heights have weekday and limited Saturday travel only. 

Cook County and adjacent counties impose weight, size, and travel time restrictions, detailed in the Illinois oversize provision sheet. 

No travel allowed from noon the day before major holidays or holiday weekends. 

Illinois Overweight Permit Costs 

Cost depends on load weight and operating area. Typical fees include: 

$35 for loads between 80,001 and 104,000 pounds 

Around $150 for loads between 104,001 and 120,000 pounds 

Additional charges such as $15 for heights over 13 feet 6 inches 

Illinois toll roads follow specific width and weight limitations with variable costs. 

Safety, Escorts, and Markings for Illinois Oversize Permits 

Oversize and overweight loads require specific safety measures: 

Escorts range from one to Illinois State Police depending on length, width, and height. For example, loads over 110 feet require one escort; over 145 feet need three escorts. 

Loads over 14 feet 6 inches wide require at least one escort. 

Oversize loads must display "Oversize Load" signs, flags at extremities, and flashing amber lights visible from 500 feet. 

Double or triple escorts and police supervision are mandatory for the largest, heaviest loads or superloads. 

Exemptions and Special Conditions 

Certain vehicles transporting beams, poles, pipe, or farm tractors may be exempt from permits when operated during daylight and within size constraints. However, overweight or overheight loads still require authorization. 

Why Choose A Permits for Illinois Oversize Permits? 

A Permits specializes in all Illinois oversize permit needs, from single trip permits to annual continuous use permits. We provide: 

Expert navigation of Illinois oversize and overweight permit requirements 

Online Illinois oversize permits application and expedited permit processing 

Guidance on special permits like the Illinois 72 hour trip permit and complementary out-of-state permits such as Indiana oversize permits 

Compliance assurance with all safety, escort, and travel time regulations 

Partnering with A Permits for your Illinois overweight permits ensures smooth, legal movement of oversize and overweight loads with minimal delays or regulatory risks. 

Contact A Permits today to streamline your Illinois oversize permitting process and keep your heavy haul freight moving confidently and compliantly on Illinois roads. 
Your professional partner in oversize permits, helping you get permits done right the first time.