How to Get a New York Thruway Special Hauling Permit

Nov. 17, 2025, 6:06 p.m.
If you’re hauling an oversize or overweight load across the New York State Thruway, you must secure a Thruway Special Hauling Permit before entering. This permit is separate from the standard NYSDOT oversize permit and applies specifically to the New York State Thruway Authority (NYSTA) highway system, including major toll road sections. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain the permit, requirements you must meet, and what to expect during the process.
New York Thruway Special Hauling Permit

1. Who Needs a Thruway Special Hauling Permit?

You need this permit if your vehicle or load exceeds:

  • 8’6” width

  • 13’6” height

  • 40’ single-unit length

  • 65’ combination length

  • 80,000 lbs GVW

  • Legal axle weight limits

Any oversize or overweight operation on the NY Thruway requires this permit — even if you already have a state oversize permit.

2. Required Information for the Application

When applying, you must provide:

  • Truck and trailer registration

  • Overall dimensions (height, width, length)

  • Axle weights and spacings

  • Commodity description (what you're hauling)

  • Desired route on the Thruway

  • Date and time of travel

  • Contact information

Accurate axle spacing is crucial; incorrect data may lead to rejection or delay.

3. How to Apply for the Permit

You can apply through:

A.  Online Permit System - www.newyorktruckingonline.com

 Carriers request:

  • Single-Trip Permits

  • Annual Permits

  • Modifications to previously issued permits

B. Email 

For carriers without online accounts, NYSTA allows permit applications via:

 

4. Types of Thruway Special Hauling Permits

Single-Trip Permit

For one-time travel across a specific Thruway segment.

Annual Permit

Allows repeated travel for certain oversize/overweight loads that fall within the annual-permit limits.

Superload Permit

Required if your load exceeds thresholds such as:

  • Over 16 ft wide

  • Over 15 ft high

  • Over 160 ft long

  • Over approx. 200,000 lbs

Engineering review is often required.

5. Thruway Route Restrictions

Some Thruway sections have limitations based on:

  • Construction

  • Bridge clearances

  • Traffic congestion

  • Physical constraints

Certain ramps or exits may also be restricted to oversize loads.

NYSTA will specify your approved route on the permit.

6. Travel Time & Escort Requirements

Travel Time Rules

  • Most oversize loads can only travel sunrise to sunset.

  • Night travel is allowed only with special authorization.

  • Holiday restrictions apply (Thanksgiving, Christmas, July 4th, etc.).

Pilot Car Requirements

Escorts may be required if:

  • Width exceeds 12 ft

  • Height exceeds 14 ft 6 in

  • Length exceeds 90 ft

  • Weight exceeds certain engineering thresholds

NYSTA will define escort needs in your permit.

7. Fees

Fees vary depending on:

  • Type of permit (Single, Annual, Superload)

  • Total miles on the Thruway

  • Load dimensions and weight

  • Engineering reviews (for heavy/superloads)

Superloads typically incur higher application and review costs.

8. Permit Approval Time

Approval times vary:

  • Standard oversize: 2–6 hours

  • Overweight loads: 4–24 hours

  • Superloads: 1–5 business days, depending on engineering complexity

Applying early is recommended.

9. Carrying the Permit

You must carry the permit:

  • Physically in the truck OR

  • In electronic format (PDF)

Drivers must be able to show it at any time to enforcement or toll personnel.

10. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating without the proper Thruway permit can result in:

  • Heavy fines

  • Denied entry onto the Thruway

  • Escort police intervention

  • Being forced off the toll road

  • Liability for any infrastructure damage

Repeat offenders may face increased scrutiny.