Kansas commercial vehicle weight limits follow the federal Interstate standard of 85,500 lbs gross, 20,000 lbs per single axle, and 34,000 lbs per tandem axle group. The federal bridge formula (23 U.S.C. 127) applies on all routes. Kansas imposes seasonal weight restrictions on secondary roads typically February through April. Check KDOT for current restricted routes. Oversize and overweight permits are available from KS DOT for loads exceeding standard limits. Verify current road-specific postings with the Kansas DOT before routing heavy loads.
Kansas imposes seasonal weight restrictions on secondary roads typically February through April. Check KDOT for current restricted routes.
Check current restrictions at KS DOT →The federal bridge formula limits the weight on any group of axles based on the distance between the outermost axles in the group. It applies in Kansas on all routes where federal standards apply.
W = maximum weight in lbs · L = axle spacing in feet · N = number of axles
Kansas DOT issues oversize/overweight permits online. Single-trip permits are available for most overweight loads. Annual permits available for qualifying recurring operations. Superloads (typically >150,000 lbs GVW or oversized dimensions) require engineering review and pre-approved route analysis. Kansas Turnpike Authority issues separate permits for Turnpike movement.
Apply for Kansas OS/OW Permit →Kansas allows 85,500 lbs gross vehicle weight on qualifying state highways — 5,500 lbs above the federal 80,000 lb Interstate limit. This higher limit applies to vehicles with 5 or more axles on designated state routes. Interstate highways in Kansas are capped at the federal 80,000 lb standard.
Yes. Kansas imposes spring weight restrictions on secondary and rural roads typically from February through April during the spring thaw period. Interstate highways are not restricted, but county roads and many state routes post reduced limits. Check KDOT at ksdot.org for current restricted routes before dispatching.
Kansas oversize/overweight permits are issued by KDOT and can be applied for online at ksdot.org. Single-trip permits handle most one-time heavy hauls. Annual permits are available for recurring overweight movements. Superloads require route engineering review. Kansas Turnpike movements require a separate KTA permit.
The tandem axle weight limit in Kansas is 34,000 lbs — matching the federal standard. Tridem axle configurations are allowed up to 42,000 lbs. The bridge formula applies statewide and may further limit axle weights based on axle spacing.
Yes. Kansas provides weight accommodations for farm vehicles transporting agricultural commodities including grain, hay, and livestock on certain intrastate routes. Implements of husbandry used for field operations are generally exempt from weight restrictions. Contact KDOT for current exemption details and eligible routes.
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The information on this page is compiled from publicly available government sources and is provided for general informational purposes only. TruckRadar is an independent search engine — we are not affiliated with any government agency and this content does not constitute legal or compliance advice. Regulations change frequently; always verify current requirements directly with the official source before making compliance decisions.
Official source: Kansas KS Department of TransportationLast reviewed: 2026-04