Best Practices in Permitting of Oversize and Overweight Vehicles: Final Report

CHAPTER 6: STATE CASE STUDIES

Nebraska

**Automated Route Identification**
Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	The system map includes only State roads and does not show county roads. The State indicated that there are plans to upgrade the State map to include local roads.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	If a carrier's requested route passes over local roads, the carrier is responsible for obtaining any local permits. The State website has a listing of each local jurisdiction's point of contact but the carrier is responsible for contacting the local agency.
Auto-issuance of permit	The State noted that permit accuracy has improved significantly.
Identification of route restrictions	The system includes both permanent and temporary route restrictions. The permit office receives updates on changes in route restrictions on a regular basis from the Nebraska DOT regional offices. These are uploaded to the system and posted on the State website.

**Thresholds**
Threshold	Description
Height	The State uses the "minimum of the maximum" for any bridges or structures with variances in height thresholds by lane. The State also allows a buffer of 3 inches. The State now requires that a permit request include a specific load height number. Previously, the system threshold did not require a specific number and carriers could state the requested height was legal and under the State threshold of 14 feet 6 inches. Only four bridges in Nebraska have a clearance less than 14 feet 6 inches but the system was not accurately identifying routes that passed over these bridges. A route survey is required for loads greater than 16 feet.
Weight	180,000 pounds
Width	A load width exceeding 18 feet requires Nebraska DOT district approval.
Length	A combined length of 150 feet or greater requires district approval.

**Application Process**
Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State indicated that the current map and graphics need to be updated. As noted, the State is planning to implement these updates.
Edit checks	The system contains basic edit checks that verify permit applications comply with State rules regarding axle weight, GVW. The system also ensures the permit applications match the correct permit.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	The system has a library function that permits carriers to store company information, power unit and trailer configurations, and previous routes. The system does not, however, automatically pull this data from the library to populate fields in a new permit request. Carriers must enter power unit and trailer information for each request.

System Operations
Component	Description
Data quality	The State noted that the development and implementation of the system required significant improvements in the quality of data and information sharing between Nebraska DOT regions.
Ease of payment	The State accepts credit and debit cards on-line. Carriers may pay for permits using checks or cash if applying in person.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	The State does not currently notify permit holders of changes in route restrictions. These changes are, however, posted to the State's website and carriers monitor the website to determine if a newly posted route restriction impacts their existing permits. The State also operates a 511 traveler information system, which is updated on a regular basis to include changes in route restrictions or other information affecting permit status.

Maryland

Automated Route Identification
Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	Maryland's system map includes State and local roads.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	The only local jurisdiction in Maryland that requires a permit is the city of Baltimore. The State system, known as Maryland One (MD1), is a joint permitting system that issues all OS/OW permits within the State. The city of Baltimore, having access and jurisdiction over their permits, is now able to issue their permits in a more efficient manner through this system. The Port of Baltimore is a primary beneficiary of the MD1 system, as it has greatly reduced the amount of time formally required to process permit applications. Maryland does not have jurisdiction over local roads. The State's policy is that carriers must contact a local jurisdiction to obtain permission to use the jurisdiction's road system. Maryland is actively working to add the bridge data for two counties to the MD1 system as a pilot (Baltimore and Montgomery counties).
Auto-issuance of permit	At present, about 70% of all permits are auto-issued. The State reported that permit accuracy has increased since the automated system was implemented. Permit processing time has decreased significantly and processing time for non-auto-issued permits (200,000 pounds and above) is now on average 2 days.
Identification of route restrictions	Route and bridge restrictions are all included in the MD1 system. The system is designed to auto-route carriers around any identified route and bridge restrictions. Maryland receives regular updates on changes on route and bridge restrictions; these are entered into the system as received.

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	The Maryland One system is a Maryland DOT program operated by the Maryland State Highway Administration (MD SHA). The system incorporates multiple jurisdictions – MD SHA, Baltimore City DOT, the Maryland Transportation Authority (toll roads and toll facilities), and the Port of Baltimore – and each individual agency is responsible for ensuring that the system has correct structural information for bridge ratings, clearance and lane width are accurate, and other threshold data. The State reported plans to add Maryland's counties to assist carriers with routing. Maryland is actively working to add bridge data to the MD1 system as a pilot for Baltimore and Montgomery counties.
Weight	Currently auto issuing at 150K (looking to move to 200K).
Width	Auto-issuing at 12 feet.
Length	Auto-issuing at 90 feet.

Application Process
Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State indicated that the system's maps and graphics were acceptable. The State is working to upgrade the map data to a 2015 global information system (GIS) map and a hauling permit preferred network.
Edit checks	The system has a knowledge base that includes all State rules. Each permit request is checked against this knowledge base to ensure that the permit is accurate. The application is also validated against route and bridge restrictions prior to issuance.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	Carriers are required to pre-register and establish an account with the State. Once the account is approved, the carrier has access to a library function that stores carrier data, power unit and trailer information, and the carrier's permit history. A carrier can pull previous permits and power unit/trailer configurations to use in requesting a new permit. The State also preapproved routes on State and county roads for which carriers may request a permit.

System Operations
Component	Description
Data quality	The State noted that the implementation of the automated permitting system has improved the quality and timeliness of information exchange between State agencies and also with local agencies. The result has been more accurate data available for analyzing and processing permits. The State system has the data necessary to do real-time bridge and weight analyses for every permit request received through the automated system. Previously, the weight analysis was only conducted for loads of more than 120,000 GVW. An additional benefit was that all route restrictions were consolidated into a single system. The system also includes the functionality to match load dimensions with requested routes to ensure that the carrier is applying for the correct type of permit. The State is now able to capture better statistics on permitted loads and is able to use this information for planning, budgeting, enforcement, paving maintenance, and other program activities.
Ease of payment	Payments can be made by credit card, escrow account with bond, checks, wire transfers, or irrevocable letters of credit. The State no longer accepts cash payments.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	Open permits are monitored to determine if a route restriction changes the status of a permit. The system generates an automatic email notice to each carrier with an open permit that has a status change, and the carrier is asked to contact the permit office to revise the permit.

North Dakota

Automated Route Identification
Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	The State route map shows both State and local roads. The State has statutory authority to permit only on State roads.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	There are 17 oil producing counties in Western North Dakota that require a permit. The State's webpage contains a link to the permit application for these counties, and if a carrier has been issued a State permit, the carrier simply enters the permit number into the county application accessed through the web-link. The application pulls information through an interface with the State system to populate the application. The application is then processed, and if all criteria and thresholds are met, the local permit for the 17 counties is issued to the carrier. Presently, it is manual process but they are working towards automation in near future
Auto-issuance of permit	The State noted that permit accuracy has improved significantly with automation. The State also noted that permitted loads are now using the same routes more consistently and the State is better able to track the movement of permitted loads.
Identification of route restrictions	North Dakota noted that all route restrictions are shown on the State map as red dots. If a requested route contains a red dot, the system will auto-route the carrier around the restriction. The system is designed so that if a carrier clicks on a red button, a pop-up will appear that explains what the restriction is. The State reported that information on changes in route restrictions – construction, work zones, weather events, traffic incidents – is received on a regular basis. The system automatically updates route restrictions within approximately 15 minutes of receiving the information.

Permit Processing Components – Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	The current height threshold is 17 feet with a buffer of 4 inches.
Weight	Up to 250,000 GVW depending on the route.
Width	Up to 20 feet wide depending on the route.
Length	Up to 200 feet depending on the route.

The North Dakota system contains a database that includes all data on height, weight, width, and length thresholds by road system. The system also includes an inventory and operating rating for each bridge that was developed and maintained by the State bridge engineers. When a State route is requested and load dimensions entered, the system is capable of completing an automated bridge analysis to determine if the permit should be issued; if not, the system auto-routes the permit around the bridge in question.

Permit Processing Components – Application Process
Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State indicated they are happy with the overall system graphics and the road map.
Edit checks	The system contains basic edit checks that match an application with route restrictions and permit types. If an error is noted, for example an axle weight that exceeds thresholds, the system will not process the permit. The applicant receives a notice stating why the permit was not processed and what the applicant should do next.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	The State has a library function that is still under development. Currently, carriers can store company data and information on power units. Carriers may also pull up a previous permit and copy the route information into the system when applying for a new permit on the same route.

Permit Processing Components – System Operations
Component	Description
Data quality	The State noted that overall data quality and information sharing has improved. The database developed to support the system is updated on a regular basis to reflect route restriction and other changes received from the North Dakota DOT.
Ease of payment	The State accepts credit cards and checking account transfers. In person, applicants may pay using cash or check.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	The State requires that both the permit applicant and driver provide email addresses.

Texas

Automated Route Identification
Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	The Texas system includes both State and local roads but has the statutory authority to route carriers only on State roads.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	Texas does not provide contact information for local agencies. The State indicated that the individual carrier is responsible for identifying the local agency and obtaining the necessary permits needed to travel on local roads.
Auto-issuance of permit	Texas conducted extensive testing of the automated system before the system went live. The result was that the system was debugged and the State reports a permit accuracy rate for auto-issued permits of close to 100%.
Identification of route restrictions	The Texas system includes both temporary and permanent route restrictions. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the agency responsible for issuing permits. The Texas DOT includes 25 districts and all provide regular information on any construction, work zone, or other activities that change route restrictions. The DMV requests at least five days advance notice for any major change in route restrictions. The DMV reviews and verifies all information received and then posts the information to the system. The DMV indicated that most information is posted within 30 minutes of receipt, which is very close to real-time.

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	The auto issue threshold is set at 16 feet 6 inches and has not been changed since the system was first implemented. The State does not issue permits if any variances in height clearance between lanes exists. To this end, the system is designed to use the "minimum of the maximum" height that is the lowest point of clearance. If a requested permit contains a load height that exceeds a height threshold on the route but is still under the system's 18 feet 11 inches threshold, the system will route the permit around the height restricted-structure. The State may issue a permit for a structure with lane clearance height variations, but the permit is not auto-issued.
Weight	Up to 180,000 gross pounds
Width	Up to 16 feet, 6 inches
Length	Up to 110 feet

Application Process
Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State is satisfied with the quality of the system graphics and user interface.
Edit checks	The system contains basic edit checks that a carrier is applying for the correct permit. This includes route selection, axle weight, GVW, and other criteria that link the permit application to the correct permit.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	The Texas system has a library function that enables carriers to store company data and formation on power units. The system does not save previous routes but does have a feature where each carrier designates an Administrator who has the authority to create user-level accounts for the carrier. Any user created by the carrier can access previous permits by permit number and use them as a template in the creation of new permit requests.

System Operations
Component	Component
Data quality	The State reported that data quality and data sharing have significantly improved. The system required accurate data on permanent route restrictions – height, weight, length, and width thresholds – to establish the criteria for auto-issuing permits. The real-time transmittal of information from each of Texas DOT's 25 districts on changes in route restrictions has established the procedures for improved data sharing between Texas DOT and DMV.
Ease of payment	The on-line system accepts credit cards and payments from escrow accounts. In-person applicants also may pay with cash or a check. A carrier can also establish an account with Frost Bank and receive a debit card that can only be used to pay for permits. This prevents unauthorized use of the card.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	The Texas system analyzes all open permits when a new route restriction is posted. If the route restriction impacts an approved permit the systems generates an email notice stating that the permit is no longer valid and the carrier must contact the State to change the permit.

Colorado

Automated Route Identification
Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	The Colorado system shows both State and local roads on the State map. The system will display local roads, but the State does not have the statutory authority to issue local permits.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	The State maintains a spread sheet on the Colorado DOT website that has contact information for local permit agencies. The State is also conducting a pilot test with the city of Denver to issue a city permit through the State system. When a carrier submits a permit application through the State that includes city of Denver roads, the system will generate a pop-up telling the carrier that a local permit is required. The pop-up allows the applicant to continue without purchasing the local permit or select to proceed to the local permit page where the applicant may apply and pay for a city permit on a real-time basis. The city permit is issued through the State system. The pilot test will use the State's self-issue envelope vehicle thresholds for city-issued permits. The city of Denver estimates that up to 70% of their permits will be issued electronically through the new system.
Auto-issuance of permit	The State noted that the permit error rate is close to zero and that the time to process permits has been reduced significantly for those movements that meet automated permitting criteria. Single trip permits can be processed in 12 minutes and the State has also reduced the permit processing time for loads that exceed automated permitting thresholds. For example, loads between 200,000 and 500,000 pounds can now be processed in less than 3 hours as compared to the previous 3 to 5 days under the old permit system and loads above 500,000 pounds can now be processed in 2 days or less as compared to 2 weeks with the previous system. The system is also designed so that any supporting documentation required from a carrier to process a permit can be uploaded electronically. The State noted that documents can be scanned or emailed and that the State encourages electronic communications to improve the efficiency of the permitting process. The Colorado system is linked to the State's Commercial Vehicle Information Exchange Window (CVIEW) system. The State submits the DOT number for every carrier applying for a permit to identify any outstanding Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)-issued out-of-service (OOS) orders. If an OOS is found, the application is flagged and the permit rejected. The State also has an application that is available to carriers who have an established account and have obtained an annual permit. A carrier accesses their account and enters the load dimensions, origin, and destination, and the application identifies a safe route for the move through the system's routing component.
Identification of route restrictions	Permanent route restrictions are hard-coded into the system. The system will route carriers around a route restriction as feasible. The Colorado system also receives updates from the DOT districts and the State's 511 system on route restrictions created by construction, work zones, weather events, incidents such as accidents, or rock falls. These updates are received by the permit office and uploaded into the system as they are verified. Future permits are routed around these restrictions and active permits are tracked and notified of any route restriction changes.

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	Maximum height for a self-issued single trip permit is 15 feet 6 inches. Maximum height for an annual permit uses the Colorado envelope vehicle threshold, which is up to 16 feet.
Weight	Maximum for self-issued single trip permit currently is 140,000 pounds. Annual permit maximum is 200,000 pounds.
Width	Maximum for self-issued single trip permit is currently 14 feet. Annual permit maximum is 17 feet.
Length	Maximum for self-issued single trip permit is currently 110 feet. Annual permit maximum is 130 feet.

The State noted that the height threshold has increased as the quality of the data on bridge and other structure heights has improved. The State further noted that most bridge hits are caused by violators either operating without a permit or deviating from a permitted route. This information is used for enforcement purposes, and violators are notified that the State will suspend any further permit applications until a violator completes a State size and weight training program.

Annual permitted vehicles are self-routed and instructed to use routing tools made available by the department. These tools includes maps (Bridge Weight Limit map, Pilot/Escort Map and Height map), the routing component of our permitting system, departmental website listing bridge vertical clearances, and the department listing construction related roadway restrictions. Annual permitted vehicles may run on any State-maintained highway but must meet the specific requirements of the roadway which may include such items as pilot/escort vehicles or specific additional permit types (e.g., Chapter 6 Special permit) depending upon the dimensions of the load and must also abide by any construction related highway restrictions.

Application Process
Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The -indicated they are happy with the system graphics and maps.
Edit checks
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	The system includes a library function that allows carriers to store company information, power unit and trailer configuration information, and previous routes. Previous routes can be copied into an application if a carrier is applying for a new permit on the route.

System Operations
Component	Description
Data quality	Implementation of the system required all offices and regions within Colorado DOT to improve the quality and quantity of data sharing to ensure permit accuracy. The State reported that data quality has significantly improved as a result of this action.
Ease of payment	The State accepts credit cards and PayPal on-line. Applicants may also mail in checks or pay with cash or check if picking up a permit in person.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	The Colorado system tracks open permits and generates an email notice to a carrier of any change in route restrictions in the previous 24 hours. Each applicant must supply an emergency contact email address, and the notice advises the carrier that there is a problem with the route and the carrier must cease operations and contact the permit office immediately. The text of the message is shown below: "IMPORTANT NOTICE! Your load may now be affected by a new restriction. The route on permit number 14S60064761 issued to your company starting on 12/2/2014 now violates one or more new restrictions. The restriction(s) it violates is/are restriction number(s) 1009532 - REPORT - I 76, MP 75.1 to MP 91.5, 12'0" Width. To find more information of the restriction(s), go to the Colorado DOT OS/OW Restriction Report at: http://www.coloradodot.info/business/permits/truckpermits/restrictions.html. If you have not completed travel for this permit or passed the restricted area, it is very important for you to contact the Colorado DOT permit office for routing guidance or for an amended route for this permit. Failure to contact the Colorado DOT permit office may result in delay of your trip or damages to the vehicle, load, or highway. Please call between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. mountain time at 303-757-9539. Please have this permit number and the restriction number(s) available when you call."

Kansas

Automated Route Identification
System Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	The Kansas system has a complete map of State and local roads. The map is provided by the system vendor, who obtains GIS data from the TOMTOM product. Permits are issued to cover travel on State roads only.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	Kansas does not issue permits on local roads. Some local jurisdictions require permits, and if a permit either originates or terminates at a site off of a State road, the State indicated it is the responsibility of the carrier to obtain any local permits.
Auto-issuance of permit	The Kansas system has a link to the State CVIEW system and each applicant's status is checked on the SAFER system and the Unified Carrier Registry. The State checks each carrier's USDOT number and the vehicle identification number (VIN) for each vehicle to verify credentials and flag outstanding OOS orders or any other violations that may result in a permit not being issued. The system automatically flags any permit application, including auto-issued permits, for human intervention if the check identifies enforcement or credentialing issue. The State reported that approximately 70% of all permits are now auto-issued.
Identification of route restrictions	The Kansas system includes route restrictions and will reroute a carrier around a route restriction. Kansas DOT operates a 511 traveler information system that is updated multiple times a day to show construction and work zones, planned special events, weather events, and traffic incidents. This information is provided to the permit office and uploaded as received. The State has an application and hardware developed by the vendor to use in updating the system, and permit office staff check for and provide route restriction updates throughout the day. All updates pushed from the 511 system are reviewed and verified by the permit office before being uploaded to the system. The State requests that information construction, work zone, planned special events, and other such activities be provided 20 days prior to the scheduled start date so that the system can be updated and permitted loads routed around these restrictions. The State tracks all open permits and notifies each permit holder by email if there is a change in their permit status. The notice states that the permitted route is affected and the permit holder needs to contact the State to update the permit.

A combination upgrade of data and technology provided improved data sharing opportunities that helped with their overall planning process.

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	Kansas DOT provides information on all bridge and other structure heights and clearances. For structures where there are variances between lane clearances, the system selects the "minimum of the maximum," that is, the lowest clearance for the structure in question.
Weight	Loads with a GVW of 120,000 or less are eligible for auto-issued permits if all other criteria are satisfied. Standard permits are also available for loads up to 150,000 GVW. Any load above this GVW is flagged for additional analysis.
Width	Loads up to 16 feet 6 inches are eligible for auto-issued permits if all other criteria are satisfied.
Length

Kansas reported that while there has not been a significant reduction in bridge hits, most bridge hits are caused either by non-compliant carriers without a permit or operator error. For example, a carrier may not properly secure a boom or crane and the device opens and hits a bridge or structure. The State also noted that some bridge hits were caused by carriers deviating from an approved route.

Application Process
Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State noted that the system has been improved on an incremental basis with all agencies providing input. Overall, the State indicated that they are happy with the quality of the user interface and graphics.
Edit checks	The system will verify that a permit application meets the specified tolerances for the requested route. If, for example, the GVW is within tolerances but the axle weight is too heavy, the system will flag the application and notify the carrier that a different permit is required.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	The State has a library function that allows carriers to store company information, power units and trailer configuration data, and previous routes.

System Operations
Component	Description
Data quality	The State noted that implementation of the system required improved sharing of information between DOT offices and regions to ensure system accuracy. The State also noted that data on the type and number of permits issued is being used to support planning for corridor management and freight operations.
Ease of payment	The State accepts credit card payments and also allows carriers to establish escrow accounts. The State no longer handles cash payments for permits. Checks may be used to add funds to an escrow account but not to make direct payments for permits.

Iowa

Automated Route Identification
System Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable State and local roads	The State permit map includes local roads, but this is done as a courtesy to help permit applicants identify and complete routes. The State does not conduct any analyses of or make available the results of any analyses on local structures. Permits are issued only for approved State routes.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	The State does have a separate ArcGIS (vendor) map on the DOT website that identifies which counties have route restrictions. When a carrier hovers over a particular county, a pop-up box appears that states if a county has route restrictions and provides local agency contact information. The State noted that the accuracy of the map is dependent on local agencies responding to an annual request from the State that updates route restriction and contact information. Iowa County Route Restriction Map Link: https://iowadot.gov/mvd/motorcarriers/motorcarriers/systemmap Iowa is conducting a pilot test in partnership with Sioux City and Woodbury County to assess the feasibility of the State issuing local permits. The State will conduct all structure analyses and auto-issue permits on approved city routes.
Auto-issuance of permit	The State noted that the auto-issuance of permits has decreased the permit error rate and the average permit turnaround time. The State noted that as part of the automated permitting process, an applicant's credentials are checked using the State's CVIEW system. A motor carrier's DOT number and vehicle license plate numbers to verify credentials status, ensure the carrier has no outstanding OOS orders, and other credentialing and safety information checks that would result in a permit not being issued.
Identification of route restrictions	The Iowa system identifies route restrictions on the State map and will automatically route a permit applicant around any identified restrictions on the requested route.

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	Iowa conducted an analysis of all vertical clearances for bridges and other structures using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR). This information is used by the automated permitting system to identify route restrictions based on height. The State noted that their maximum buffer on vertical clearances is 2 inches above the permitted load height. The State further noted that for any bridge with height variances by lane, the State uses the "minimum of the maximum," that is, the lowest vertical clearance in any lane to set the height threshold.
Weight	Permit requests stating per axle weight of 20,000 pounds or less and a GVW of 120,000 are approved for auto-issue under the weight threshold limits established by the State if the carrier meets other permit requirements. The automated process analyzes and permits overweight loads to only cross those structures approved for the load.
Width	11 feet.
Length	120 feet.
Height	14 feet 6 inches.

The Iowa DOT Bridge Office conducts the structural and pavement analysis that determine auto-issue thresholds for per axle and GVW. The structural analysis includes bridges and other infrastructure, such as intersections.

The State indicated that while the number of bridge hits in particular and incidents involving OS/OW loads has not changed significantly since the automated system was implemented, most reported hits are caused by operator error or by carriers who are not permitted or have deviated from the permitted route. This, in turn, has helped the State to target enforcement activities on non-compliant carriers.

Application Process
System Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State is negotiating a renewal of their leasing agreement with the vendor who provides the automated system. As part of this negotiation, the State is requesting an updated map. The current map runs on a Java application that is no longer supported by many browsers and the State wants an updated map that is compliant with current web technology.
Edit checks	The current system performs edit checks to ensure that the permit application is the correct permit for the types of vehicle(s) listed in the application. The State also checks a carrier's International Registration Plan (IRP) registration to ensure that the weight listed on the cab card matches the permit requested weight. The system permits carriers to scan and upload their cab cards.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	Carriers who establish an account with the State can upload company information, number and type of power units, and trailer configurations. The system will automatically populate carrier information for a permit application and the carrier can pull power unit and trailer configurations from the stored data. The system also allows carriers to save their previous routes and pull route information from the stored data when applying for a permit. The State has also pre-approved routes for certain commodities and makes this approved route data available to carriers moving these commodities.

System Operations
Operational Component	Description
Ease of payment	The State accepts on-line credit card payments and allows account holders to establish an escrow account for payment of permit application fees. A permit applicant may also pay in cash or with a check if applying in person.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	Iowa DOT maintains a 511 traveler information system that is updated on a regular basis by the State DOT field offices. These updates include construction activities, work zone locations, weather, and/or incidents, and any changes to threshold restrictions. The 511 and Automated Permit Systems contain an interface that provides hourly updates to the permitting system. The permit system in turn tracks all active permits and, if a 511 update is received that makes any changes in a permitted load's route, generates an email notice to the motor carrier notifying the carrier. The permit notice advises the carrier that their permit status has changed and they need to contact the permit office to update the permit and reroute the load.

Illinois

Automated Route Identification
System Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable State and local roads	The Illinois system contains both State and local road maps. If a carrier requests a route that includes local roads, the system will include these in the route but the carrier may be required to obtain a local permit.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	The State will issue a permit even if the route includes local roads. The State does not issue local permits but does notify local agencies that a permitted load will pass through their jurisdiction at the time when the State permit is issued. The State reported that this has helped with enforcement against non-compliant carriers and served as an incentive for carriers to obtain any needed local permits. The Illinois system provides carriers with local agency contact information if a local permit is required. A pop-up box with the contact information appears when a carrier hovers over the local road included in the permit requested route.
Auto-issuance of permit	The State reported that the automated system has significantly reduced permit error rates and reduced permit turnaround time. The State reported that there also is no permit backlog.
Identification of route restrictions	The Illinois system routes a carrier around route restrictions. The system also provides the carrier with an explanation of what the restriction is and why the carrier's requested route was rerouted. The Illinois DOT provides regular updates on any changes in route restrictions, such as construction, work zones, planned special events, weather events, and traffic incidents. The State requests 21 days advance notice for construction, work zone, and other events that result in a route restriction. All permanent and temporary restrictions are posted on the State route map, as shown in the link below: http://www.gettingaroundillinois.com/gai.htm?mt=tpr

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Weight	Up to 299,000 gross pounds.
Width	Up to 17 feet
Length	Up to 200 feet
Height	Up to 16 feet

Application Process
System Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The Illinois system is a web-based interactive mapping site that provides the ability to search and display several sources of transportation data. You can find information on winter road conditions, annual average daily traffic, road construction, trucking routes, and planned road projects.
Edit checks	The system contains edit checks that verify the vehicle and trailer configurations and weights are approved for the requested route and that the permit application is the correct application.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	The Illinois system contains a library function that allows carriers to store company information, power units, and trailer configurations. When a carrier applies for a permit, they can pull this information from the database to populate the permit request. The system also saves previous routes and permits. A carrier can pull a saved route from the database for a new permit request.

System Operations
Best Practice	Safety Benefit
Data quality	The State noted that data quality has significantly improved. This includes State-provided information on available routes and route restrictions as well as carrier permit applications.
Ease of payment	Carriers may pay for permits using electronic funds transfer or credit cards. Carriers may also establish an escrow account. A carrier obtaining a permit in person may also pay cash.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	The State updates the permitting system on a regular basis throughout the day. If any updates result in a change in route restrictions or any other change to a permitted load, the carrier is notified that their permit is no longer valid and they need to contact the State to update their permit. This is done for all open permits. The State noted that as part of the permit application, carriers are required to provide an emergency contact to receive a permit change notice.

Georgia

Automated Route Identification
System Component	Description
Complete map of all suitable roads State roads Local roads	The State of Georgia has the statutory authority over both State and local roads and includes all roads.
Coordination of State and local permit requirements State has ability to issue State and local permits State map contains hyperlink to local jurisdiction	The State of Georgia also has the statutory authority to issue permits that cover both State and local roads. The permits cover all routes traveled from load origin to destination.
Auto-issuance of permit	The State noted that 80% of permits are now auto-issued.
Identification of route restrictions	GeorgiaPro was developed to include route restrictions. The State road map shows all route restrictions in red and will generate a message explaining the route restriction if an applicant hovers over the identified restriction. The software is designed to route around restrictions. The State noted that the software will default an application for review by permit office personnel only when a route accommodating a load that meets State threshold requirements cannot be established. Information on temporary route restrictions is provided by Georgia DOT and pulled from the State's 511 traveler information system. The State noted that because permits in Georgia are valid for 10 days, in general the State only posts temporary route restrictions that exceed 10 days. All information on route restrictions – incidents, minor construction, and inclement weather – is posted on the State's 511 system. The State noted that updates on temporary route restrictions are posted to the GeorgiaPro system on a real-time basis and that carriers contact the permit office to revise permits on an as-needed basis.

Thresholds
Threshold	Description
Height	GeorgiaPro is developed to include bridge clearances height plus a 3-inch buffer for every bridge in the State. Georgia DOT maintains all bridge data and provides updates on changes in bridge data as necessary. GeorgiaPro does not issue permits for bridges that have variable clearances by bridge lane. The system is designed to either route loads around these bridges or the application can be sent to the permit office for manual processing.
Weight	150,000 pounds.
Width	16 feet.
Length	110 feet.

Georgia DOT is responsible for maintaining a comprehensive inventory of infrastructure for all routes that permitted loads utilize. This includes maintaining a detailed database on bridges. Georgia has established an envelope vehicle that includes the height, weight, and length thresholds noted above and the height thresholds approved for the requested route. An automated permit will be issued for any load that meets route-approved height clearances and the other envelope vehicle threshold requirements.

Application Process
System Component	Description
User interface Quality of graphics and maps Ease of use	The State is satisfied with the current graphics and user interface. The State noted that the development of the updated State road map was significantly improved by the incorporation of GIS data.
Edit checks	Will not let carrier proceed if a particular value entered is not correct – hovering over field generates message explaining what the issue is.
Library function Company data Power unit and trailer configuration Saved routes	Each carrier establishes an account that includes a library function for storing company data and information on power units and trailer configurations. A carrier can download an Excel spreadsheet at the time the account is established. Every company has a dashboard on the account that shows prior routes, can store company, power unit, can drop data into excel spreadsheet, and store data. Stored routes can be retrieved.

The State indicated that they are very happy with the quality of the new vendor offered platform to integrate Georgia GIS data into the State road map and gave a comprehensive map showing all roads with route restrictions.

All threshold data also were provided – data were current and are maintained routinely.

System Operations
Best Practice	Safety Benefit
Data quality	The development of the GeorgiaPro system required that all information on permanent route restrictions be included, in particular on bridge clearance heights. The State also noted that this significantly improved the quality of the initial data and that data quality is maintained by the addition of major temporary route restriction information. The State also noted that the development of the new State road map incorporating GIS data significantly improved the quality of the route map display.
Ease of payment	The State accepts payments via credit cards, electronic funds transfers, or carrier-established escrow accounts. Payments can also be made by check if a carrier applies in person or mails in payments.
Notice of real-time changes in route restrictions	The Georgia system has the functionality to generate email notices, but the State does not utilize this on a regular basis. Permits in Georgia are valid for 10 days and the State posts information on temporary route restrictions on the Georgia DOT 511 system. This information is available to the industry and traveling public.

The State offers weekly classes for industry on how to use the GeorgiaPro system. Georgia also has posted a series of educational videos on YouTube that provide a carrier with information on how the permitting process works and what steps are needed to complete an application. Links to these tutorials are shown below:

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