Trucking Regulations in West Virginia
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in West Virginia.
Max Gross Weight
80,000 lbs
Truck Speed Limit
70 mph (same as cars)
Diesel Tax
$0.357 per gallon diesel + federal
Weight & Size Limits in West Virginia
| 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 |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 13'6" |
Speed Limits for Trucks in West Virginia
Rural Interstate
70 mph
Urban Interstate
55 mph
Truck-Specific
70 mph (same as cars)
Fuel Tax & Tolls in West Virginia
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.357 per gallon diesel + federal
Toll Roads & Bridges
West Virginia Turnpike (I-77, $3 per toll for trucks, two toll plazas). E-ZPass accepted.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law, but mountain terrain requires winter preparedness.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
WV DOH permits. Mountain terrain severely restricts oversize load routing. Many narrow roads and tunnels.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
Weigh stations on I-77, I-64, I-79, I-81. WV State Police commercial vehicle enforcement.
Special Rules for West Virginia
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Hazmat restricted through WV Turnpike tunnels (Memorial Tunnel closed, but other tunnel restrictions remain). Coal country hazmat routing for mine-related chemicals. Designated routes through Charleston.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Turnpike service areas and rest areas allow truck parking. Limited truck parking options off the interstate. No anti-idling law.
DOT Inspection Frequency
Moderate. WV State Police focus on coal haul compliance and I-77/I-64 corridors. Mountain terrain safety checks are common.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in West Virginia?
Browse CDL driver positions and connect with carriers operating in West Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia Trucking Regulations
What is the WV Turnpike toll for trucks?
The West Virginia Turnpike (I-77 between Charleston and Princeton) has relatively low tolls at $3 per toll plaza for trucks (two plazas total = $6 for the full stretch). E-ZPass is accepted. This is significantly cheaper than turnpikes in neighboring states.
What are the mountain driving challenges in West Virginia?
West Virginia is the most mountainous state east of the Mississippi. Nearly every highway has significant grades, curves, and elevation changes. I-77, I-64, and I-79 all cross Appalachian ridges. Trucks must be prepared for 6-7% grades and use engine braking. Runaway truck ramps are provided on the steepest grades.
What is the truck speed limit in West Virginia?
West Virginia allows 70 mph for trucks on rural interstates, matching passenger vehicles. However, many sections have lower posted limits due to grades and curves. Advisory speed signs for trucks are common on mountain grades.
What are the coal haul regulations?
West Virginia has special provisions for coal haul trucks including weight allowances on designated coal haul roads. Coal trucks are a major presence on secondary roads throughout the state. Enforcement of coal truck regulations is handled by both state police and the Public Service Commission.
Are there tunnel restrictions in West Virginia?
West Virginia has several tunnels with height, width, and hazmat restrictions. The East River Mountain Tunnel (I-77) and Big Walker Mountain Tunnel have specific restrictions. Overheight vehicles must use alternate routes. Hazmat loads are restricted in some tunnels.