Trucking Regulations in Texas
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in Texas.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs (84,000 lbs on state roads, higher with permit)
Truck Speed Limit
75-85 mph (varies by road, same as cars)
Diesel Tax
$0.20 per gallon diesel + federal
Weight & Size Limits in Texas
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 80,000 lbs (84,000 lbs on state roads, higher with permit) |
| Max Axle Weight | 20,000 lbs single axle, 34,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 59 ft trailer on state highways |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 14 ft |
Speed Limits for Trucks in Texas
Rural Interstate
85 mph on SH 130 (highest in US), 75 mph on most rural interstates
Urban Interstate
55-65 mph
Truck-Specific
75-85 mph (varies by road, same as cars)
Fuel Tax & Tolls in Texas
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.20 per gallon diesel + federal
Toll Roads & Bridges
Extensive toll network: SH 130, Dallas North Tollway, Sam Houston Tollway, Hardy Toll Road, LBJ Express, NTE Express, many more. TxTag/TollTag transponder essential.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law. Rare winter events (2021 freeze demonstrated vulnerability).
Oversize & Overweight Permits
TxDMV Motor Carrier Division. Texas is very accommodating to oversize loads. Online permitting via TxPROS system. Extensive permitted routes for oil field equipment.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
DPS weigh stations on I-10, I-20, I-35, I-30, I-40. Texas also has agricultural inspection stations. Border crossings at Laredo, El Paso, Brownsville, Eagle Pass.
Special Rules for Texas
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat restricted through downtown Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. Extensive designated routes around petrochemical facilities on the Gulf Coast. Border crossing hazmat protocols at Laredo and El Paso.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Rest areas and picnic areas available but spacing can be 75+ miles in west Texas. Travel information centers at borders. No anti-idling law (Houston area has voluntary anti-idling zones).
DOT Inspection Frequency
Moderate to high. Texas DPS Motor Carrier Bureau is active. Focus on border crossings (Laredo, El Paso), I-35 corridor, and oil field areas.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in Texas?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Trucking Regulations
What is the highest speed limit for trucks in Texas?
Texas has the highest posted speed limit in the United States at 85 mph on SH 130 (a toll road southeast of Austin). Most rural interstates allow 75 mph for trucks, same as passenger vehicles. Urban interstates are 55-65 mph.
How do toll roads work in Texas?
Texas has an extensive toll road network across Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and other metro areas. TxTag and TollTag are the primary transponders. Truck tolls vary widely: SH 130 full-length is approximately $15 for trucks, while Dallas North Tollway and Sam Houston Tollway charge $2-8 per plaza.
What is the busiest US truck border crossing?
Laredo, Texas handles more international truck traffic than any other US border crossing, with over 5 million truck crossings annually. The World Trade Bridge and Columbia Bridge serve commercial vehicles. FAST-enrolled carriers experience shorter wait times.
How does the oil industry affect Texas trucking?
The Permian Basin in west Texas generates enormous demand for oil field trucking including crude oil tankers, water haulers, frac sand trucks, and equipment movers. Oil field trucking pays premium rates but involves demanding conditions. The Eagle Ford Shale in south Texas is another major area.
What are the weight limits on Texas roads?
Texas allows 80,000 lbs on interstates and 84,000 lbs on state roads. The state issues overweight permits for loads up to and exceeding 200,000 lbs for oil field equipment and industrial loads. Texas is one of the most permitting-friendly states for heavy haul operations.