top of page

Texas

Escort Requirements:

When Escorts are Needed & Number of Escorts:

On All Highways:

  • Width exceeding 14’ up to 16’ requires 1 escort (Lead)

  • Width over 16’ up to 20' requires 2 escorts (Lead and Chase)

  • Width exceeding 20' requires Motor Carrier Division certification

  • Length over 110’ up to 125’ requires 1 escort (Chase on 2-lane highways and Lead on 4 or more lane highways)

  • Length over 125’ requires 2 escorts (Lead and Chase)

  • Overhang (front or rear) exceeding 20’ requires 1 escort Chase on 2-lane highways and Lead on 4 or more lane highways)

  • Height over 17’ and less than 18' requires 1 Height-Pole

  • Height over 18’ up to 19' generally requires 2 escorts (1 Height-Pole and a Chase)

  • Height over 19’ requires Motor Carrier Division certification.

Additional Rules:

  • If a load exceeds escort requirements in two dimensions, Lead and Chase escorts are required (e.g., width and length).

  • Loads exceeding 20’ in width must inspect the proposed route and certify safety to the Motor Carrier Division.

  • Loads 19’ or higher must inspect the proposed route and certify safety regarding power, communication, and cable television lines, and other obstructions.

  • Overlength loads may convoy and share escorts under specified conditions.

Super Loads:

  • Loads exceeding 254,300 lbs., 20' wide, 18'11" high, 125' long, or a 30' overhang are considered super loads and require a route survey.

Escort vehicle requirements can vary widely from state to state, encompassing mandatory driver qualifications, training, certifications, vehicle weights, mandatory signage, flags, lighting specifications, essential onboard equipment, and other factors. The SafeGuard team is well-equipped to furnish you with comprehensive information on any additional requirements specific to your designated route.

980-414-6611

TxDOT_logo_as_of_2023.svg.png

Motor Carrier Division
Mailing address:
4000 Jackson Ave.
Austin, TX 78731
PHONE: (800) 299-1700
(phone shuts down 15 minutes prior to end of day)

Hours of Business

Permit Section Hours:Mon-Fri 6AM – 6PM | Sat 6AM - 2PM (Central time)

bottom of page