GWB Oversize and Overweight Permit Toll
Standard axle-based toll plus a PANYNJ permit fee for any load exceeding standard dimensions or weight.
Verified 21 May 2026 | Source: Port Authority of NY and NJ
When a Permit Is Required
| Dimension | Standard Limit | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 8ft 6in | > 8ft 6in |
| Height | 13ft 6in (upper level only) | > 13ft 6in or below 14ft 0in trailers |
| Length (single) | 40ft | > 40ft |
| Length (combination) | 60ft | > 60ft |
| Weight (gross) | 80,000 lbs | > 80,000 lbs |
| Axle weight (single) | 20,000 lbs | > 20,000 lbs |
| Axle weight (tandem) | 34,000 lbs | > 34,000 lbs |
Two-Part Toll for Oversize Loads
Oversize loads pay two separate fees per crossing. First, the standard axle-based GWB toll: a 5-axle truck pays $113.35 E-ZPass peak, a 6-axle pays $136.02, and each additional axle adds another tier. Second, the oversize/overweight permit fee, which varies based on the specific dimensions of the load and is set per permit by the Port Authority.
The standard axle toll is collected automatically via E-ZPass or Toll-by-Mail at the gantry. The permit fee is paid separately when the permit is issued, and the permit must be carried with the driver during the crossing.
How to Apply for a PANYNJ Oversize Permit
Submit a permit application to the Port Authority of NY and NJ permit office. Required information:
- Load width, height, length, and gross vehicle weight (GVW)
- Individual axle weights and spacing
- Vehicle configuration diagram (tractor + trailer + load)
- Origin and destination addresses
- Proposed crossing date and time window
- Carrier name, USDOT number, and insurance certificate
- Driver name and CDL number
Standard processing is 1 to 3 business days. Same-day permits may be available for an additional rush fee. Permits are issued for a specific date and time window; crossings outside the window require a new permit.
Escort Vehicle Requirements
Loads exceeding certain thresholds require escort vehicles (pilot cars). Typical triggers:
- Width over 12ft: 1 escort vehicle in front
- Width over 14ft: 2 escort vehicles (front and rear)
- Length over 100ft: 1 escort vehicle in rear
- Height over 14ft 6in: escort with height pole to verify clearance
Escort vehicles do not pay the permit fee but pay their own standard car toll ($16.79 E-ZPass peak each).
Time-of-Day Restrictions
Most PANYNJ oversize permits restrict crossing to off-peak hours, typically weekday midday (10:00 AM to 4:00 PM), weeknights (after 8:00 PM), or weekends. This reduces the impact of slow-moving oversize loads on commuter traffic. The specific window is set per permit.
Some permits allow peak-hour crossings for an additional fee, typically for time-sensitive deliveries. The premium can double the base permit fee.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an oversize load pay extra toll on the George Washington Bridge?
Yes, in two parts. First, the standard axle-based toll applies (a 5-axle truck pays $113.35 E-ZPass peak, a 6+ axle pays $136.02). Second, an oversize/overweight permit fee is added by PANYNJ for any load exceeding standard width, height, length, or weight limits. The permit fee depends on the specific dimensions and routing. Tariff effective 4 January 2026.
How do I get an oversize permit for the GWB?
Apply through the Port Authority of NY and NJ permit office before your crossing. Required information includes load dimensions, total weight, axle weights, vehicle configuration, origin, destination, and proposed crossing time. Permits are typically issued within 1 to 3 business days. Same-day permits may be available for an additional fee. Heavy escort vehicles may be required depending on size.
What is the maximum size truck allowed on the GWB without a permit?
Up to 8ft 6in wide, 13ft 6in tall (upper level required for anything over 13ft 6in is not permitted as the upper level open-air deck has no strict height limit but other structures along approach roads do), 40ft long single unit or 60ft combination, and 80,000 lbs gross weight. Anything exceeding any of these requires an oversize/overweight permit.
Do oversize loads have time-of-day restrictions on the GWB?
Yes. Many oversize permits restrict crossing to off-peak hours (typically weekends, overnight, or weekday midday) to avoid adding congestion during peak traffic. The specific time window is set on the permit. Permitted crossing during peak hours generally costs more in permit fees and may require escort vehicles.
Are construction equipment haulers eligible for oversize permits?
Yes. Equipment haulers carrying excavators, bulldozers, cranes, or similar oversize machinery are common permit applicants. The permit fee scales with the dimensions and weight of the load. The hauler typically holds an annual oversize permit through their state DOT and adds PANYNJ permits per crossing.