MV-519 Form – If you operate trucks, tractors, trailers, or haul heavy loads in New York State, understanding legal size and weight limits is critical to avoid fines, delays, or safety violations. The MV-519 form from the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) is the official Oversized/Overweight Vehicle Information Guide. This free PDF details maximum dimensions and weights under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) §385 and directs haulers on where to get permits.
Updated as MV-519 (4/17) and still the current official reference linked directly by the NY DMV website in 2026, this guide is essential for commercial drivers, trucking companies, and permit applicants.
Download the MV-519 PDF instantly here:
https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv519.pdf
What Is the MV-519 Form?
The MV-519 is not a permit application — it is an informational reference guide published by the NY DMV. It explains:
- Legal maximum vehicle dimensions (width, height, length)
- Permissible gross weights and axle limits (including New York and federal bridge formulas)
- Where to apply for oversize/overweight movement permits
Truckers and fleet operators use it to determine whether their load requires a special permit from the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), New York City DOT, Thruway Authority, or Bridge Authority.
Who Needs the MV-519 Guide and Oversize/Overweight Permits?
You need this information (and likely a permit) if your vehicle or load exceeds standard limits. Registration permits are required at the DMV for:
- Tractors registered over 80,000 pounds
- Trucks exceeding the New York State Bridge Formula weight
Movement permits (for actual highway travel) are separate and issued by NYSDOT or local authorities.
Common scenarios include:
- Hauling construction equipment, modular homes, transformers, or heavy machinery
- Divisible loads (gravel, fuel, scrap metal) that qualify for overweight permits
- Non-divisible loads requiring special hauling permits
Key Legal Limits from the MV-519 PDF (2026 Reference)
The guide lists exact limits under VTL §385. Exceeding these without a permit is illegal.
Maximum Dimensions
- Width: 96 inches (102 inches on qualifying/access highways or outside NYC if lane ≥10 ft wide; school buses 98 inches)
- Height: 13½ feet
- Length:
- Single vehicle: 40 ft (exceptions for specialized vehicles)
- Semitrailer: 48 ft (up to 53 ft on certain qualifying highways with kingpin-to-rear-axle ≤43 ft)
- Combination: 65 ft (no overall limit on qualifying highways)
- Buses/articulated: Up to 62 ft
Permissible Gross Weights (Pneumatic Tires)
- Single axle: 22,400 lbs
- Two consecutive axles (8–10 ft apart): Up to 40,000 lbs (federal bridge formula)
- Overall gross: 80,000 lbs standard (higher with permits, using federal bridge formula)
- Tire weight: 800 lbs per inch of tire width
- Idle reduction devices: Up to 400 lbs allowance
The guide includes the full New York State Bridge Formula and Federal Bridge Formula (W = 500[(LN/(N-1)) + 12N + 36]) with detailed calculations and exemptions.
Solid or metal tires have reduced allowances (80% or 40% of pneumatic limits).
How to Apply for New York Oversize/Overweight Permits (Step-by-Step)?
The MV-519 directs applicants to the proper agencies. Most permits are now handled online through the Highway Oversize Overweight Credentialing System (HOOCS).
- Determine permit type:
- Divisible Load Overweight Permit — For separable cargo (sand, gravel, fuel, etc.). Vehicles must meet strict Infrastructure Friendly Vehicle (IFV) rules (steerable lift axles, 80% axle weight rule, four tires per axle, etc.).
- Special Hauling Permit — For non-divisible loads (cranes, transformers, modular homes).
- Apply online via HOOCS at hoocs.dot.ny.gov.
- NYC travel — Obtain separate per-day permits from NYC DOT.
- Thruway or Bridge Authority routes — Contact them directly for tandem trailer or special permits.
Acceptable proofs for DMV registration include DOT Perm 65, NYSDOT overweight permits, or NYC permits.
Escort Vehicle Requirements
An escort is mandatory if your load (including vehicle):
- Width ≥12 feet
- Length ≥80 feet
- Height ≥14 feet
- Overhang >10 feet front/rear/side
Escort vehicles must have warning signs, lights, and a driver with a valid NY escort endorsement.
Safety, Routing, and Compliance Tips
- Always check posted bridge restrictions and qualifying highways.
- Use the NYSDOT OS/OW Routing Map Pre-Screening Tool.
- “Oversize Load” signs and flags are required.
- Permits specify exact routes; deviation can void coverage.
- Divisible Load permits require full IFV compliance (see NYSDOT Quick Reference Gross Weights chart).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the MV-519 form the actual permit?
No — it is only the information guide. Permits come from NYSDOT HOOCS or local authorities.
How long are permits valid?
Single-trip or annual options available (details in your approved permit).
Where do I find the latest fees?
Fees are set by NYSDOT and listed during the HOOCS application process.
Can I operate 24/7 with a permit?
Overweight-only loads up to certain weights may travel 24/7; oversize often restricted to daylight hours.
Download & Stay Compliant in 2026
Keep the official MV-519 Oversized/Overweight Vehicle Information Guide in your truck or office. It remains the authoritative quick-reference from the NY DMV for legal limits and permit contacts.
Direct PDF Download: https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv519.pdf
For permits, visit:
- NYSDOT Permits: dot.ny.gov/nypermits
- DMV Overweight Page: dmv.ny.gov/business/overweight-and-oversized-vehicles
Operating legally protects your business, keeps roads safe, and avoids costly citations. Bookmark this guide and the MV-519 PDF for quick reference on every oversized or overweight haul in New York State.