Trucking Regulations in Indiana
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in Indiana.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs
Truck Speed Limit
65 mph on some urban interstates
Diesel Tax
$0.56 per gallon diesel + surcharges + federal (highest in US region)
Weight & Size Limits in Indiana
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 lbs |
| Max Axle Weight | 20,000 lbs single axle, 34,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 53 ft trailer, 65 ft overall |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 13'6" |
Speed Limits for Trucks in Indiana
Rural Interstate
70 mph
Urban Interstate
55 mph
Truck-Specific
65 mph on some urban interstates
Fuel Tax & Tolls in Indiana
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.56 per gallon diesel + surcharges + federal (highest in US region)
Toll Roads & Bridges
Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90 across northern Indiana). Managed by Indiana Finance Authority. E-ZPass accepted. Truck toll: ~$34 for full 157-mile crossing.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law. Indiana experiences moderate winter weather requiring winter driving preparedness.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
INDOT Permits Division. Indiana is centrally located and accommodating to oversize loads. Permits available online.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
Weigh stations on I-65, I-69, I-70, I-74, I-80/90. PrePass accepted. Indiana also uses WIM (weigh-in-motion) technology.
Special Rules for Indiana
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat restricted through downtown Indianapolis on I-65/I-70 connector. Designated routes around major population centers. Indiana Toll Road has specific hazmat lane requirements.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Rest areas allow overnight parking. Indiana has good rest area coverage. Indiana Toll Road service plazas have truck parking. No state anti-idling law.
DOT Inspection Frequency
Moderate to high. Indiana State Police Motor Carrier Division is active. Focus on I-65 and I-70 corridors. WIM systems flag potentially overweight vehicles.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in Indiana?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in Indiana.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana Trucking Regulations
What does the Indiana Toll Road cost for trucks?
The Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) charges approximately $34 for a 5-axle truck to cross the full 157-mile span of northern Indiana. E-ZPass provides slightly discounted rates. Many carriers choose I-30 or I-70 as toll-free alternatives when routing allows.
Why is diesel fuel so expensive in Indiana?
Indiana has the highest effective diesel fuel tax rate in the region at $0.56 per gallon (including surcharges) at the state level, plus federal tax. This makes Indiana one of the most expensive states for refueling in the Midwest. Many drivers fill up in neighboring Ohio or Illinois when possible.
What makes Indianapolis a major trucking hub?
Indianapolis is called the 'Crossroads of America' because I-65, I-69, I-70, and I-74 all converge in the metro area. More interstate highways intersect in Indianapolis than any other US city, making it a critical distribution hub. Major companies like FedEx and Amazon have massive facilities here.
What are the spring weight restrictions in Indiana?
INDOT implements seasonal weight restrictions during spring thaw, typically February through April, on many state highways. These restrictions reduce allowable weight to protect road surfaces during freeze-thaw cycles. Carriers should check INDOT's seasonal restriction map before routing on state roads.
How are weigh stations operated in Indiana?
Indiana operates weigh stations on all major interstates and uses weigh-in-motion (WIM) technology to screen vehicles at highway speed. Trucks flagged as potentially overweight are directed into the station. PrePass and Drivewyze bypasses are accepted at most locations.