Theoretical heights.

valhalla360 wrote:

Second Chance wrote:
Someone with a CDL and experience straightened me out on this on another forum recently. There is no such thing as a legal "DOT height" from the Federal government. 13'6" is the minimum height for overpasses on the interstate highway system. Some states have their own regulations. That said, there is no such thing in my books as a "theoretical height." The only thing you can rely on is an actual measurement with the trailer on the truck on level ground.

Rob

You had someone inform you wrong.

13.5ft is the maximum height before you are considered an oversize load that requires permits for each trip.

Sounds like someone informed you wrong. Second Chance is correct at 13'6".
Probably what you read is max height of 13.5'. That's 13 and 1/2 foot. 1/2 foot is 6", not 5".
13'6" is the max legal height without a permit. Anything over 13'6" requires a permit. Some states go with max legal at 14' only on specific routes.
No one wants to get a permit for overheight 5ers. When you get a permit the permit will specify the exact route you are restricted to travel. Absolutely no deviation from the route listed on that permit or the permit is not valid. No deviation. Not even to pull off to get fuel.
You must stay exactly where the permit allows. The permit will also specify the days and time of travel. Every time you travel you would be required to get a new permit for that specific trip. Depending on the height a permit may require a lead escort vehicle with a height stick.
Life gets a WHOLE lot more complicated for permit moves.
I did truck enforcement and dealt with oversize loads for 42 years, taught truck law, taught motor carrier safety law, and was recognized by the courts both state and federal as an expert in truck laws.