Trucking Regulations in New Jersey
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in New Jersey.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs
Truck Speed Limit
65 mph (same as cars)
Diesel Tax
$0.489 per gallon diesel + federal (among highest in US)
Weight & Size Limits in New Jersey
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 lbs |
| Max Axle Weight | 22,400 lbs single axle, 34,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 53 ft trailer on STAA network |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 13'6" |
Speed Limits for Trucks in New Jersey
Rural Interstate
65 mph
Urban Interstate
55 mph
Truck-Specific
65 mph (same as cars)
Fuel Tax & Tolls in New Jersey
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.489 per gallon diesel + federal (among highest in US)
Toll Roads & Bridges
New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), Garden State Parkway (NO trucks over 3 axles), Atlantic City Expressway. NJ Turnpike truck tolls: $13-47 depending on distance. E-ZPass required.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law, but chains permitted during winter storms.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
NJ DOT Office of Permits. Very strict routing in congested corridors. Nighttime-only movement for many oversize loads.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
NJ State Police commercial vehicle enforcement uses mobile enforcement and fixed inspection points on the Turnpike.
Special Rules for New Jersey
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat restricted on Garden State Parkway entirely. NJ Turnpike allows hazmat on truck lanes. Hazmat prohibited in Lincoln and Holland Tunnels to NYC. Designated routes around Port Newark area.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Turnpike service areas allow truck parking (often full). Severe parking shortage throughout the state. NJ anti-idling law: 3-minute limit.
DOT Inspection Frequency
High. NJ State Police commercial vehicle unit is very active on the Turnpike and around Port Newark.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in New Jersey?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Trucking Regulations
What are the New Jersey Turnpike tolls for trucks?
NJ Turnpike (I-95) charges $13-47 for trucks depending on distance and number of axles. The northern section has separate car and truck lanes. E-ZPass is required for many toll plazas and provides discounted rates. Full-length truck transit from Delaware Memorial Bridge to George Washington Bridge costs approximately $47.
Can trucks use the Garden State Parkway?
No, the Garden State Parkway prohibits commercial vehicles with more than 3 axles. Tractor-trailers and most large trucks must use the NJ Turnpike for north-south travel. This restriction has been in place since the Parkway was built and is strictly enforced.
What is the anti-idling law in New Jersey?
New Jersey has one of the strictest anti-idling laws in the country: 3-minute limit for diesel vehicles when parked. Violations can result in fines of $250-1,000 per incident. Auxiliary power units (APUs) or shore power at truck stops are recommended alternatives.
How does Port Newark affect NJ trucking?
Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal is the busiest container port on the East Coast, handling millions of TEUs annually. It generates massive drayage truck traffic on I-95, I-78, and NJ Turnpike. Container chassis shortages and port congestion can create significant delays for drayage carriers.
Is truck parking available in New Jersey?
New Jersey has a severe truck parking shortage, especially near Port Newark and along the I-95 corridor. NJ Turnpike service areas fill up by early evening. Drivers should secure parking reservations in advance. Commercial parking lots near the port charge premium rates.