Arizona Permits for Commercial Vehicles
In Arizona, commercial vehicles that travel to and from the state are required to obtain specific permits to ensure their legal operation, safety, and adherence to environmental standards.
These permits are governed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and are crucial for maintaining organized management of commercial traffic.
Depending on the size, weight, and nature of the goods being transported, different types of permits may be required. This article provides an overview of the various permits necessary for commercial vehicles operating in Arizona.
Arizona Single-Trip Permit
The Arizona Single-Trip Permit, also known as a One Way Permit or One Way Trip Permit, is designed for commercial vehicles that do not have a valid Arizona registration, an International Registration Plan (IRP), or an International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) decal.
Purpose of Single-Trip Permits
This permit allows commercial vehicles to travel within Arizona for a specified period, typically up to four consecutive days or 96 hours, or upon exiting the state, whichever occurs first.
Who Is Required to Get Single-Trip Permits
This permit is required for each entry into the state, and it primarily covers the fuel tax liabilities associated with the vehicle’s operation within Arizona.
It’s crucial for operators of commercial vehicles to obtain this permit before entering the state to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with Arizona’s Department of Transportation regulations.
Permit Fee
As of 2023, the following fees are required for each commercial vehicle going into and out of Arizona. You can also check the ADOT website for updated fees:
Arizona Single-Trip Permit Fee (Motor Carrier Permit Fee)
The Arizona Motor Carrier Permit is issued to a commercial vehicle or vehicle combination that has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 12,000 pounds or greater.
This permit is subject to Arizona registration and requires a valid registration permit. It allows travel within the state and the permit fee is based on travel distance:
- For the first 50 miles, the cost is $12
- For distances over 50 miles, the fee is $48
Arizona Use Fuel Permit Fee
The Arizona Use Fuel Permit is issued to a use-fuel or diesel-powered motor vehicle, such as a truck, truck tractor, road tractor, or passenger-carrying vehicle with more than two axles and a GVWR greater than 26,000 pounds.
As with the Motor Carrier Permit, the fee for this permit is based on travel within the state:
- For distances up to 50 miles, the cost is $16
- For distances over 50 miles, the fee is $65
Permit Fee Notes
There is a cost-per-mile increment for commercial motor carriers based on the axle count. For example:
- Motor carriers with over 6 axles will incur $7 for every 50 miles
- Motor carriers with 6 axles will include $6 for every 50 miles
For a more detailed fee breakdown, visit the ADOT website.
Exemption for Specific Use Class Motor Vehicles
The fees discussed in the previous sections do not apply to every use-class motor vehicle. Notably, commercial vehicles used in the production of certain types of media are exempted. These include:
- Motion Pictures: Vehicles used in producing films for theatrical release or for television broadcast are exempted from the stated fees.
- Television Commercials: Commercial vehicles employed in the production of commercials for television are exempt from these fees.
- Video Discs: Vehicles involved in the production of video discs also qualify for fee exemption.
- Videotapes: Commercial vehicles used in creating videotapes are not required to pay the discussed fees.
- Industrial, Training, and Educational Films: Vehicles employed in the creation of films for industrial purposes, training materials, or educational content are not subject to these fees.
How to Get a Single-Trip Permit
Single-trip permits can be obtained through the following methods:
- Online via the ADOT website
- In-person: Port of Entry locations and Central Commercial Vehicle Permit Office
Our state permit specialists at DOT Compliance Group make the process easier for you by helping you understand the requirements and obtain the necessary permits for your commercial vehicle. Let DOT Compliance Group uncomplicate the complicated for you.
Arizona Overweight Permit (Envelope Permit)
The Arizona Envelope Permit or the Overweight Load Annual Permit (OLAP) is issued to a commercial vehicle or combination that exceeds the standard legal weight.
Purpose of Envelope Permits
This special permit allows travel within Arizona with an overweight load valid for 1 year. The following conditions must be met:
- A commercial vehicle or vehicle combination with a gross weight of less than 111,000 pounds, traveling within 20 miles of Arizona borders and/or adjacent states.
- A commercial vehicle or vehicle combination with a gross weight of less than 123,000 pounds, traveling within 4 miles of Arizona borders and/or adjacent states. This also applies to vehicles that have a travel route of more than 10 miles going through an Indian reservation and within 20 miles of Arizona borders.
Who Is Required to Get Envelope Permits
They are issued for a nonspecific and non-reducible vehicle or cargo load that does not exceed 250,000 pounds in gross weight, 14 feet in width, 16 feet in height, or 120 feet in overall length and that has at least four axles unless otherwise approved by ADOT Enforcement and Compliance.
Permit Fee
As of 2023, the following fees are required for each commercial vehicle going to and out of Arizona. You can also check the ADOT website for updated fees:
- Oversize 30-day Permit: This permit costs $150 and is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
- Oversize Annual Permit: The annual permit for oversize vehicles is priced at $750 and is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
- Oversize/Overweight 30-day Permit: This permit costs $500 and is valid for 30 days.
- Oversize/Overweight Annual Permit: This permit costs $1,500 and is valid for one year.
- Oversize/Overweight Annual Tridem Permit: This specific permit for tridem (triple axle group) oversize and overweight vehicles also cost $1,500 per year.
- Modifications: Any modifications to these permits cost either $25 or $50, depending on the nature and extent of the modification.
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the ADOT website for updated fee information.
How to Get an Envelope Permit
As with other Arizona permits for commercial vehicles, the envelope permit can be obtained through the following:
- Online via the ADOT website
- In-person: Central Commercial Vehicle Permit Office
DOT Compliance Group can also streamline the process for you, and help you to further understand the requirements. Contact us today to find out how we can help!
Partner with a Trusted Arizona Permit Professional
Getting the right permits for your commercial vehicle in Arizona is a necessary step to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
At DOT Compliance Group, we offer Arizona permit services that include helping you understand the requirements and obtaining the necessary permits for your commercial vehicle.
We guarantee fast, professional service and accurate fees based on up-to-date information from the ADOT website.
Our team of knowledgeable agents will ensure that you get the right permits for your commercial vehicle in Arizona, so you can safely and confidently continue your business operations.
Contact us today to discuss your needs and find out how we can be of service.