Trucking Regulations in Arizona
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in Arizona.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs (up to 129,000 lbs with special state permit for designated routes)
Truck Speed Limit
65 mph on I-10/I-17 in urban areas
Diesel Tax
$0.26 per gallon diesel + federal
Weight & Size Limits in Arizona
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 lbs (up to 129,000 lbs with special state permit for designated routes) |
| Max Axle Weight | 20,000 lbs single axle, 34,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 65 ft single trailer, 65 ft doubles |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 14 ft |
Speed Limits for Trucks in Arizona
Rural Interstate
75 mph
Urban Interstate
55-65 mph
Truck-Specific
65 mph on I-10/I-17 in urban areas
Fuel Tax & Tolls in Arizona
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.26 per gallon diesel + federal
Toll Roads & Bridges
No toll roads. Arizona has historically been toll-free.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
Advisory only. ADOT may require chains or snow tires during winter storms on I-40 and I-17 flagstaff area.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
ADOT Oversize/Overweight Permit Office. Single-trip and annual permits available online. Nighttime-only travel required for some oversize loads.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
Ports of entry on all major border highways. Open 24/7 on I-10 and I-40. PrePass and Drivewyze accepted.
Special Rules for Arizona
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat prohibited through Phoenix downtown tunnel. Restricted routes around Tucson metro and near Grand Canyon approaches. Placarded loads must use I-17 and I-10 bypasses.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Rest areas allow 8-hour maximum parking. Many desert rest areas have limited shade. Anti-idling law in Maricopa County only (5-minute limit when parked).
DOT Inspection Frequency
High inspection rate. Arizona ports of entry are among the busiest in the nation due to Mexico border crossings. Expect inspections at Ehrenberg, San Simon, and border ports.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in Arizona?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Trucking Regulations
What is the truck speed limit in Arizona?
Arizona allows 75 mph on rural interstates for trucks, with lower limits of 55-65 mph in urban areas. The I-10 corridor between Phoenix and Tucson has a 65 mph truck limit through metro areas. Night speed advisories apply on winding mountain sections of I-17.
Are tire chains required in Arizona?
Arizona does not have a mandatory chain law, but ADOT can issue chain requirements during winter storms, particularly on I-40 near Flagstaff and I-17 between Phoenix and Flagstaff. Carrying chains is recommended for winter travel through northern Arizona.
How does Arizona handle oversize permits?
ADOT issues single-trip and annual oversize/overweight permits through their online portal. Loads over 14 ft wide require escort vehicles. Nighttime-only movement may be required for certain dimensions. Permits can be approved within 24 hours for standard oversize loads.
What are the summer driving concerns in Arizona?
Desert corridors like I-10 and I-8 see extreme temperatures (110°F+) from May to September, significantly increasing tire blowout risk. Drivers should check tire pressure before dawn, carry extra water, and watch for dust storms (haboobs) which can reduce visibility to zero.
Are there port of entry requirements in Arizona?
All commercial vehicles must stop at Arizona ports of entry unless they have a valid PrePass or Drivewyze bypass. Ports on I-10 (Ehrenberg, San Simon), I-40, and I-19 (Nogales) operate 24/7. Mexico-origin freight undergoes additional customs screening.