Single-Trip House Move Permits

manufactured-housingTxDMV issues a single-trip permit for the movement of houses that exceed 20 feet wide. Single-trip permits may only be used for one movement, during the times specified on the permit, from a specific point of origin to a specific destination.

TxDMV will provide you with a proposed route based on:

  • the amount of inconvenience and hazard imposed on the traveling public
  • highway geometrics and time of movement
  • the overall width, measured to the nearest inch, of the house, including the eaves or porches

A representative of your company must physically inspect the proposed route to ensure the safety of the load, traveling public and state infrastructure. You must notify TxDMV in writing whether the vehicle and load can or cannot safely negotiate the proposed route.

NOTE: You must verify the size and weight limits needed BEFORE seeking a special permit.

Operating Authority Requirements

During the permit application process, you must provide your USDOT Number. TxDMV will check the number against the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) system, MCMIS, for any out-of-service orders prior to permit issuance. The permit will be issued to the company name as it is listed for the USDOT Number.

If you are not required to have a USDOT Number, you must have a Permit Surety Bond in the amount of $10,000 on file with TxDMV.

Additional Requirements

If any section of the TxDMV proposed route is unacceptable, you should provide an alternate route around the unacceptable section.

How to Apply

You may also call (800) 299-1700.

Fees & Payment Information

The permit fee is $60. In addition to the permit fee, a highway maintenance fee is required for loads exceeding 80,000 pounds. Highway maintenance fees are listed in the table below:

Gross Weight in Pounds Highway Maintenance Fee Permit Fee Total Fee
80,001 120,000 $150 $60 $210
120,001 - 160,000 $225 $60 $285
160,001 - 200,000 $300 $60 $360
200,001 - above* $375 $60 $435

*Vehicles and loads with a combined gross vehicle weight exceeding 200,000 pounds must have at least 95 feet of total axle spacing. A vehicle supervision fee of $35 will be charged, in addition to the permit fee and highway maintenance fee, for loads exceeding 200,000 pounds.

Fees are payable by:

  • MasterCard, VISA, Discover or American Express (a service charge of 25 cents per permit plus 2.25 percent will be added.)
  • Automated Clearing House (ACH) – Electronic Check (only accepted when ordering online through TxPROS)
  • Personal check, business check, cashier's check or money order, payable to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

A permit fee will not be refunded after the permit number has been issued unless such refund is necessary to correct an error made by the Motor Carrier Division.

More Information

  • General escort and equipment requirements apply to both permitted vehicles and escort vehicles. View Escort and Equipment Requirements
  • Once a route is decided upon and a permit is issued, the permit route may not be amended unless an exception is granted by MCD.
  • Review your permit for specific conditions that apply to your load and movement.