RouteAllPennsylvania Oversize Load Signs, Flags And Lights
Sources Reviewed: October 23, 2026
Pennsylvania’s general permit conditions specify different warning-sign sizes for the permitted vehicle and the pilot car. The load-sign lettering also has a distinct stroke requirement that should be checked before dispatch.
On This Page
What Goes On The Permitted Vehicle?
Under 67 Pa. Code 179.10(15), unless the permit specifies otherwise, mount yellow OVERSIZE LOAD panels at the vehicle’s front and the vehicle or load’s rear. The minimum is 7 feet wide by 18 inches high, with black letters at least 10 inches high and a 2-inch stroke. A panel meeting another state’s narrower stroke is not automatically equivalent. Measure the letters as well as the banner.
Which Projections Need Flags?
Mark excessive length and width with clean red or fluorescent orange flags at least 18 inches square. The provision includes overlength vehicles or combinations and cargo extending more than 4 feet behind a combination. Locate each excessive edge while the actual load is secured. Recheck after a component is folded, repositioned or added; the visible outer point may have moved even when the shipment name is unchanged.
What If The Load Covers The Lights?
Section 179.10(14) requires equivalent lighting at the rear of the towed vehicle or load when required rear running lights, stop lights, turn signals or hazard lamps are obstructed. Flags do not restore a hidden brake signal. Inspect the view from behind the final cargo configuration and confirm the added light system operates, rather than assuming that the trailer’s original lamps remain visible.
What Does Pennsylvania Require Of The Pilot Car?
When a pilot car is required under the general conditions, it needs front and rear yellow OVERSIZE LOAD signs at least 5 feet wide by 1 foot high, with black letters at least 8 inches high. Once the load is removed and the vehicle is no longer oversize, signs must be removed or covered. Include the return trip in the equipment plan so the crew knows when the warning message stops applying.
How Can RouteAll Help Prepare The Pennsylvania Trip?
Import the issued permit into RouteAll and review its extracted road sequence while parked. Compare the first road, connecting junctions and final approach with the document, then share the reviewed route with the crew. Keep your equipment checklist beside that route review. RouteAll helps organize and navigate the permitted route; it does not inspect banners, certify flag placement or establish that a lighting setup complies with the permit.
Before You Roll
Match the measured load to the permit category. Inspect the actual front, rear and projecting points after securement. Resolve any unclear marking instruction with the issuing authority before dispatch, and revisit it when equipment or the load changes.
Further Reading
- Compare State Sign Requirements
- Prepare The Oversize Equipment Checklist
- Read The Pennsylvania Oversize Permit
Sources And Scope
Original driver reference based on the identified official publications, reviewed October 23, 2026. The issued permit, current law and applicable commercial-vehicle rules control. Load markings and escort equipment are distinct. This page identifies the source scope and does not replace a complete equipment inspection.
- Pennsylvania 67 Pa. Code 179.10 — General conditions, obstructed lamps, load and pilot signs, flags.
- PennDOT M-938 General Conditions — Driver-facing copy of hauling permit conditions.