Trucking Regulations in New Hampshire
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in New Hampshire.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs (99,000 lbs on turnpike with permit)
Truck Speed Limit
65 mph (same as cars)
Diesel Tax
$0.222 per gallon diesel + federal
Weight & Size Limits in New Hampshire
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 lbs (99,000 lbs on turnpike with permit) |
| Max Axle Weight | 22,400 lbs single axle, 36,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 53 ft trailer on designated network |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 13'6" |
Speed Limits for Trucks in New Hampshire
Rural Interstate
65 mph
Urban Interstate
55 mph
Truck-Specific
65 mph (same as cars)
Fuel Tax & Tolls in New Hampshire
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.222 per gallon diesel + federal
Toll Roads & Bridges
NH Turnpike (I-95, Spaulding Turnpike). Truck toll on I-95: approximately $4-8. E-ZPass accepted at all tolling points.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law, but chains permitted during winter. New Hampshire can restrict travel during severe storms.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
NH DOT Bureau of Turnpikes and Bridge Maintenance. Strict routing on White Mountain area roads.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
No fixed weigh stations. NH State Police commercial vehicle unit uses mobile enforcement.
Special Rules for New Hampshire
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat restricted through Franconia Notch (I-93). Designated routes avoid White Mountain resort areas. Limited hazmat infrastructure in northern NH.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Turnpike service plazas and rest areas allow truck parking. Limited availability during peak tourism seasons. No specific anti-idling law.
DOT Inspection Frequency
Low. New Hampshire has limited commercial vehicle enforcement. Focus on I-93 and I-95 corridors during CVSA events.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in New Hampshire?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in New Hampshire.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Hampshire Trucking Regulations
What are the weight limits in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire follows the federal 80,000 lbs limit on interstates but allows up to 99,000 lbs on the NH Turnpike and designated state routes with permit. The state's single axle limit is 22,400 lbs, slightly above the federal standard.
What are the NH Turnpike tolls for trucks?
The NH Turnpike (I-95 and Spaulding Turnpike) charges $4-8 for trucks depending on the route and distance. E-ZPass is accepted at all toll plazas. The turnpike is the primary north-south route through southern New Hampshire.
What are the mountain driving concerns in New Hampshire?
The White Mountains present significant trucking challenges including steep grades, tight curves, and severe winter weather. I-93 through Franconia Notch is reduced to two lanes with restricted shoulders. US-302 and NH Route 16 through the mountains have steep grades and limited pullouts.
Are there covered bridge restrictions in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has numerous covered bridges on secondary roads that restrict commercial vehicle access due to height, width, and weight limits. Commercial GPS should be used to avoid routing through covered bridges. These are historic structures and bridge strikes result in significant penalties.
How does tourism affect New Hampshire trucking?
Tourism generates significant seasonal freight demand, particularly during fall foliage season (September-October) and ski season (December-March). Delivery routes to resort areas in the White Mountains can be challenging, and rest area parking fills quickly during peak tourism periods.