Upcoming Changes for Size and Weight Permits

Intermodal Shipping Container Port Permits: After Sept. 1, 2019, the “Port of Bayport” will be available for customers renewing or ordering new Intermodal Shipping Container Port Permits.

Legislative Changes

The 86^th Texas Legislature passed new laws that impact the movement of oversize/overweight vehicles and loads. These changes are effective Sept. 1, 2019.

Company Name on Permit: The company/individual’s name listed on an oversize/overweight permit must match the name of the company/individual operating the permitted vehicle. It will be a Class C misdemeanor if the two names do not match.

This does not apply to a tow truck that is moving a disabled, abandoned, or accident-damaged vehicle/vehicle combination to the nearest terminal, storage facility, or place of repair. It also does not apply to any active permits issued before Sept. 1, 2019.

Escort Flaggers: New requirements will be in effect for escort flaggers. An escort flagger is anyone who directs or controls the flow of traffic as required by an oversize/overweight permit issued by TxDMV.

Beginning Sept. 1, 2019, escort flaggers must successfully complete a training program in traffic direction. The program must meet the basic peace officer course curriculum requirements for traffic direction that have been established by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). TCOLE will offer training courses for escort flaggers after Sept. 1, 2019. Contact TCOLE for more information, https://www.tcole.texas.gov/.

In addition, escort flag vehicle will be allowed alternating or flashing amber and blue lights beginning on Sept. 1, 2019.

Please Note: training requirements do not apply to escort vehicle operators or flaggers who are not directing traffic.

Annual Timber Permit: An Annual Timber Permit may be used to transport equipment used to load timber on to a vehicle. The size and weight limits of the permit remain the same.

For questions or additional information, contact the Motor Carrier Division at 1-800-299-1700, options 2-5-2.