reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter L. Effect of Suspension › Section 601.375. Cooperation With Other State or Canada

Sec. 601.375.  COOPERATION WITH OTHER STATE OR CANADA.  (a)  The department shall send a certified copy of the record of the department's action suspending a nonresident's operating privilege under Subchapter F  or under Sections 601.332, 601.333, and 601.334 to the official in charge of issuing driver's licenses and vehicle registrations of the state or province of Canada in which the nonresident resides.
(b)  Subsection (a) applies only if the law of the other state or the province provides for action similar to the action required by Section 601.009.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter L. Effect of Suspension › Section 601.376. Reinstatement Fee

Sec. 601.376.  REINSTATEMENT FEE.  (a)  A driver's license, vehicle registration, or nonresident's operating privilege that has been suspended under this chapter may not be reinstated and a new license or registration may not be issued to the holder of the suspended license, registration, or privilege until the person:
(1)  pays to the department a fee of $100;  and
(2)  complies with the other requirements of this chapter.
(b)  The fee imposed by this section is in addition to other fees imposed by law.
(c)  A person is required to pay only one fee under this section, without regard to the number of driver's licenses and vehicle registrations to be reinstated for or issued to the person in connection with the payment.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1189, Sec. 38, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter M. Appeal of Department Action › Section 601.401. Department Actions Subject to Review

Sec. 601.401.  DEPARTMENT ACTIONS SUBJECT TO REVIEW.  (a)  An action of the department under this chapter may be appealed, unless:
(1)  an order of suspension by the department is based on an existing unsatisfied final judgment rendered against a person by a court in this state arising out of the use of a motor vehicle in this state;  or
(2)  the suspension is automatic under Section 601.231(a).
(b)  To appeal an action of the department, the person must file a petition not later than the 30th day after the date of the action in the county court at law in the county in which the person resides or the county court of the county in which the person resides, if the county does not have a county court at law.
(c)  A person who files an appeal under this section shall send a file-stamped copy of the petition by certified mail to the department at the department's headquarters in Austin.  The copy must be certified by the clerk of the court in which the petition is filed.
(d)  The filing of a petition of appeal as provided by this section stays an order of suspension until the earlier of the 91st day after the date the appeal petition is filed or the date the trial is completed and final judgment is rendered.
(e)  On expiration of the stay, the department shall impose the suspension.  The stay may not be extended, and an additional stay may not be granted.
(f)  A trial on appeal is de novo.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1117, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 2000.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter N. Financial Responsibility Verification Program › Section 601.451. Definition

Sec. 601.451.  DEFINITION.  In this subchapter, "implementing agencies" means:
(1)  the department;
(2)  the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles;
(3)  the Texas Department of Insurance; and
(4)  the Department of Information Resources.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 892 (S.B. 1670), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 933 (H.B. 3097), Sec. 2J.02, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter N. Financial Responsibility Verification Program › Section 601.452. Implementation of Program; Rules

Sec. 601.452.  IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAM; RULES.  (a)  The Texas Department of Insurance in consultation with the other implementing agencies shall establish a program for verification of whether owners of motor vehicles have established financial responsibility.  The program established must be:
(1)  the program most likely to:
(A)  reduce the number of uninsured motorists in this state;
(B)  operate reliably;
(C)  be cost-effective;
(D)  sufficiently protect the privacy of the motor vehicle owners;
(E)  sufficiently safeguard the security and integrity of information provided by insurance companies;
(F)  identify and employ a method of compliance that improves public convenience; and
(G)  provide information that is accurate and current; and
(2)  capable of being audited by an independent auditor.
(b)  The implementing agencies shall jointly adopt rules to administer this subchapter.
(c)  The implementing agencies shall convene a working group to facilitate the implementation of the program, assist in the development of rules, and coordinate a testing phase and necessary changes identified in the testing phase.  The working group must consist of representatives of the implementing agencies and the insurance industry and technical experts with the skills and knowledge, including knowledge of privacy laws, required to create and maintain the program.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 892 (S.B. 1670), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter N. Financial Responsibility Verification Program › Section 601.453. Agent

Sec. 601.453.  AGENT.  (a)  The Texas Department of Insurance in consultation with the other implementing agencies, under a competitive bidding procedure, shall select an agent to develop, implement, operate, and maintain the program.
(b)  The implementing agencies shall jointly enter into a contract with the selected agent.
(c)  A contract under this section may not have a term of more than five years.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 892 (S.B. 1670), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter N. Financial Responsibility Verification Program › Section 601.454. Information Provided by Insurance Company; Privacy

Sec. 601.454.  INFORMATION PROVIDED BY INSURANCE COMPANY; PRIVACY.  (a)  Each insurance company providing motor vehicle liability insurance policies in this state shall provide necessary information for those policies to allow the agent to carry out this subchapter, subject to the agent's contract with the implementing agencies and rules adopted under this subchapter.
(b)  The agent is entitled only to information that is at that time available from the insurance company and that is determined by the implementing agencies to be necessary to carry out this subchapter.
(c)  Information obtained under this subchapter is confidential.  The agent:
(1)  may use the information only for a purpose authorized under this subchapter;
(2)  may not use the information for a commercial purpose; and
(3)  on request, and subject to appropriate safeguards to protect the privacy of motor vehicle owners developed by the implementing agencies and the attorney general, may provide the information to the attorney general for the purpose of enforcing child support obligations.
(d)  A person commits an offense if the person knowingly uses information obtained under this subchapter for any purpose not authorized under this subchapter.  An offense under this subsection is a Class B misdemeanor.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 892 (S.B. 1670), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 767 (S.B. 865), Sec. 36, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle D - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility › Chapter 601 - Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility Act › Subchapter N. Financial Responsibility Verification Program › Section 601.455. Access by Court

Sec. 601.455.  ACCESS BY COURT.  (a)  A justice or municipal court may access the verification program established under this subchapter to verify financial responsibility for the purpose of court proceedings.
(b)  The costs associated with accessing the verification program under this section shall be paid out of the county treasury by order of the commissioners court or the municipal treasury by order of the governing body of the municipality, as applicable.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 259 (H.B. 1693), Sec. 1, eff. June 4, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.002. Vehicle Registration Receipt for Certain Heavy Vehicles

Sec. 621.002.  VEHICLE REGISTRATION RECEIPT FOR CERTAIN HEAVY VEHICLES.  (a)  A copy of the registration receipt issued under Section 502.057 for a commercial motor vehicle, truck-tractor, trailer, or semitrailer shall be:
(1)  carried on the vehicle when the vehicle is on a public highway; and
(2)  presented to an officer authorized to enforce this chapter on request of the officer.
(b)  A copy of the registration receipt is:
(1)  admissible in evidence in any cause in which the gross registered weight of the vehicle is an issue;  and
(2)  prima facie evidence of the gross weight for which the vehicle is registered.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 161 (S.B. 1093), Sec. 20.022, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1135 (H.B. 2741), Sec. 98, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.003. Reciprocal Agreement With Another State for Issuance of Permits

Sec. 621.003.  RECIPROCAL AGREEMENT WITH ANOTHER STATE FOR ISSUANCE OF PERMITS.  (a)  The board by rule may authorize the director to enter into with the proper authority of another state an agreement that authorizes:
(1)  the authority of the other state to issue on behalf of the department to the owner or operator of a vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that exceeds the weight or size limits allowed by this state a permit that authorizes the operation or transportation on a highway in this state of the vehicle or combination of vehicles; and
(2)  the department to issue on behalf of the authority of the other state to the owner or operator of a vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that exceeds the weight or size limits allowed by that state a permit that authorizes the operation or transportation on a highway of that state of the vehicle or combination of vehicles.
(b)  A permit issued by the authority of another state under an agreement entered into under this section has the same validity in this state as a permit issued by the department.
(c)  The holder of a permit issued by the authority of another state under an agreement entered into under this section is subject to all applicable laws of this state and rules of the department.
(d)  The department may contract with a third party to act as the department's agent in the processing of a permit application and the distribution of a permit issued by the department under this section.
(e)  An agreement entered into under this section may provide for a third party to act as the agent of each state in the processing of a permit application and the distribution of a permit issued by a state under this section.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 515, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 55, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.004. Admissibility of Certificate of Vertical Clearance

Sec. 621.004.  ADMISSIBILITY OF CERTIFICATE OF VERTICAL CLEARANCE.  In each civil or criminal proceeding in which a violation of this chapter may be an issue, a certificate of the vertical clearance of a structure, including a bridge or underpass, signed by the executive director of the Texas Department of Transportation is admissible in evidence for all purposes.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 56, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.005. Effect of Increased Limits by United States

Sec. 621.005.  EFFECT OF INCREASED LIMITS BY UNITED STATES.  If the United States prescribes or adopts vehicle size or weight limits greater than those prescribed by 23 U.S.C. Section 127 on March 18, 1975, for the national system of interstate and defense highways, the increased limits apply to the national system of interstate and defense highways in this state.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.006. Restricted Operation on Certain Holidays

Sec. 621.006.  RESTRICTED OPERATION ON CERTAIN HOLIDAYS.  The commission by rule may impose restrictions on the weight and size of vehicles to be operated on state highways on the following holidays only:
(1)  New Year's Day;
(2)  Memorial Day;
(3)  Independence Day;
(4)  Labor Day;
(5)  Thanksgiving Day; and
(6)  Christmas Day.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 57, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.007. Evidence of Violation

Sec. 621.007.  EVIDENCE OF VIOLATION.  (a)  In a proceeding in which a violation of a weight restriction under this subtitle may be an issue, a document is admissible as relevant evidence of the violation if:
(1)  the document is:
(A)  a record kept under Section 621.410;  or
(B)  a bill of lading, freight bill, weight certification, or similar document that is issued by a person consigning cargo for shipment or engaged in the business of transporting or forwarding cargo;  and
(2)  the document states:
(A)  a gross weight of the vehicle or combination of vehicles and cargo that exceeds a weight restriction under this subtitle;  or
(B)  a gross weight of the cargo that combined with the empty weight of the vehicle or combination of vehicles exceeds a weight restriction under this subtitle.
(b)  This section does not limit the admissibility of any other evidence relating to the violation.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1227, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 621.008. Rulemaking Authority

Sec. 621.008.  RULEMAKING AUTHORITY.  The board may adopt rules necessary to implement and enforce this chapter.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 58, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter B. Weight Limitations › Section 621.102. Authority to Set Maximum Weights

Sec. 621.102.  AUTHORITY TO SET MAXIMUM WEIGHTS.  (a)  The executive director of the Texas Department of Transportation may set the maximum single axle weight, tandem axle weight, or gross weight of a vehicle, or maximum single axle weight, tandem axle weight, or gross weight of a combination of vehicles and loads, that may be moved over a state highway or a farm or ranch road if the executive director finds that heavier maximum weight would rapidly deteriorate or destroy the road or a bridge or culvert along the road.  A maximum weight set under this subsection may not exceed the maximum set by statute for that weight.
(b)  The executive director of the Texas Department of Transportation must make the finding under this section on an engineering and traffic investigation and in making the finding shall consider the width, condition, and type of pavement structures and other circumstances on the road.
(c)  A maximum weight or load set under this section becomes effective on a highway or road when appropriate signs giving notice of the maximum weight or load are erected on the highway or road by the Texas Department of Transportation.
(d)  A vehicle operating under a permit issued under Section 623.011, 623.071, 623.094, 623.121, 623.142, 623.181, 623.192, 623.212, or 623.321, as added by Chapter 1135 (H.B. 2741), Acts of the 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, may operate under the conditions authorized by the permit over a road for which the executive director of the Texas Department of Transportation has set a maximum weight under this section.
(e)  For the purpose of this section, a farm or ranch road is a state highway that is shown in the records of the commission to be a farm-to-market or ranch-to-market road.
(f)  This section does not apply to a vehicle delivering groceries, farm products, or liquefied petroleum gas.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.131, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 920, Sec. 19, eff. June 14, 2001;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 941, Sec. 16, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 312, Sec. 76, 77, eff. June 18, 2003;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1325, Sec. 15.73, 15.74, eff. June 21, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 571 (H.B. 3309), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 59, eff. September 1, 2011.
Reenacted by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 161 (S.B. 1093), Sec. 20.023, eff. September 1, 2013.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1184 (S.B. 1171), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.201. Maximum Width

Sec. 621.201.  MAXIMUM WIDTH.  (a)  The total width of a vehicle operated on a public highway other than a vehicle to which Subsection (b) applies, including a load on the vehicle but excluding any safety device determined by the United States Department of Transportation or the Texas Department of Public Safety to be necessary for the safe and efficient operation of motor vehicles of that type, may not be greater than 102 inches.
(b)  The total width of a passenger vehicle and its load may not be greater than eight feet.  This subsection does not apply to a motor bus or trolley bus operated exclusively in the territory of a municipality, in suburbs contiguous to the municipality, or in the county in which the municipality is located.
(c)  A passenger vehicle may not carry a load extending more than three inches beyond the left side line of its fenders or more than six inches beyond the right side line of its fenders.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.202. Commission's Authority to Set Maximum Width

Sec. 621.202.  COMMISSION'S AUTHORITY TO SET MAXIMUM WIDTH.  (a)  To comply with safety and operational requirements of federal law, the commission by order may set the maximum width of a vehicle, including the load on the vehicle, at eight feet for a designated highway or segment of a highway if the results of an engineering and traffic study, conducted by the Texas Department of Transportation, that includes an analysis of structural capacity of bridges and pavements, traffic volume, unique climatic conditions, and width of traffic lanes support the change.
(b)  An order under this section becomes effective on the designated highway or segment when appropriate signs giving notice of the limitations are erected by the Texas Department of Transportation.
(c)  This section is intended to comply with the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (23 U.S.C.A. Section 101 et seq.) and is conditioned on that Act and federal regulations implementing that Act.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 60, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.203. Maximum Length of Motor Vehicle

Sec. 621.203.  MAXIMUM LENGTH OF MOTOR VEHICLE.  (a)  A motor vehicle, other than a truck-tractor, may not be longer than 45 feet.
(b)  A motor bus as defined by Section 502.001 that is longer than 35 feet but not longer than 45 feet may be operated on a highway if the motor bus is equipped with air brakes and has either three or more axles or a minimum of four tires on the rear axle.
(c)  The limitation prescribed by Subsection (a) does not apply to a house trailer or towable recreational vehicle or a combination of a house trailer or towable recreational vehicle and a motor vehicle. A house trailer or towable recreational vehicle and motor vehicle combination may not be longer than 65 feet.
(d)  In this section, "house trailer" and "towable recreational vehicle" have the meanings assigned by Section 541.201.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1020, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.204. Maximum Length of Semitrailer or Trailer

Sec. 621.204.  MAXIMUM LENGTH OF SEMITRAILER OR TRAILER.  (a)  A semitrailer that is operated in a truck-tractor and semitrailer combination may not be longer than 59 feet, excluding the length of the towing device.
(b)  A semitrailer or trailer that is operated in a truck-tractor, semitrailer, and trailer combination may not be longer than 28-1/2 feet, excluding the length of the towing device.
(c)  The limitations prescribed by this section do not include any safety device determined by regulation of the United States Department of Transportation or by rule of the Department of Public Safety to be necessary for the safe and efficient operation of motor vehicles.
(d)  The limitations prescribed by this section do not apply to a semitrailer or trailer that has the dimensions of a semitrailer or trailer, as appropriate, that was being operated lawfully in this state on December 1, 1982.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 941, Sec. 17, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.205. Maximum Length of Vehicle Combinations

Sec. 621.205.  MAXIMUM LENGTH OF VEHICLE COMBINATIONS.  (a)  Except as provided by this section, a combination of not more than three vehicles, including a truck and semitrailer, truck and trailer, truck-tractor and semitrailer and trailer, or a truck-tractor and two trailers, may be coupled together if the combination of vehicles, other than a truck-tractor combination, is not longer than 65 feet.
(b)  A passenger car or another motor vehicle that has an unloaded weight of less than 2,500 pounds may not be coupled with more than one other vehicle or towing device at one time.  This subsection does not apply to the towing of a disabled vehicle to the nearest intake place for repair.
(c)  A motor vehicle, including a passenger car, that has an unloaded weight of 2,500 pounds or more may be coupled with a towing device and one other vehicle.
(d)  In this section:
(1)  "Passenger car" means a motor vehicle designed to transport 10 or fewer persons simultaneously.
(2)  "Towing device" means a device used to tow a vehicle behind a motor vehicle by supporting one end of the towed vehicle above the surface of the road and permitting the wheels at the other end of the towed vehicle to remain in contact with the road.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.206. Maximum Extended Length of Load

Sec. 621.206.  MAXIMUM EXTENDED LENGTH OF LOAD.  (a)  A vehicle or combination of vehicles may not carry a load that extends more than three feet beyond its front or, except as permitted by other law, more than four feet beyond its rear.
(b)  Subsection (a) does not apply to vehicles collecting garbage, rubbish, refuse, or recyclable materials which are equipped with front-end loading attachments and containers provided that the vehicle is actively engaged in the collection of garbage, rubbish, refuse, or recyclable materials.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 25, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.132, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 941, Sec. 18, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1420, Sec. 19.0065, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.2061. Exception to Maximum Extended Length of Load: Certain Motor Vehicles

Sec. 621.2061.  EXCEPTION TO MAXIMUM EXTENDED LENGTH OF LOAD:  CERTAIN MOTOR VEHICLES.  Notwithstanding Section 621.206, a trailer may carry a load that extends more than four feet beyond the rear of the trailer if the load consists of a motor vehicle that:
(1)  is designed and intended to be carried at the rear of the trailer;
(2)  is used or intended to be used to load or unload a commodity on or off the trailer;
(3)  does not extend more than seven feet beyond the rear of the trailer;  and
(4)  complies with each applicable federal motor carrier safety regulation.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 25, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter C. Size Limitations › Section 621.207. Maximum Height

Sec. 621.207.  MAXIMUM HEIGHT.  (a)  A vehicle and its load may not be higher than 14 feet.
(b)  The operator of a vehicle that is higher than 13 feet 6 inches shall ensure that the vehicle will pass through each vertical clearance of a structure in its path without touching the structure.
(c)  The owner of a vehicle is strictly liable for any damage to a bridge, underpass, or similar structure that is caused by the height of the vehicle unless at the time the damage was caused:
(1)  the vehicle was stolen;
(2)  the vertical clearance of the structure was less than that posted on the structure;
(3)  the vehicle was being operated under the immediate direction of a law enforcement agency; or
(4)  the vehicle was being operated in compliance with a permit authorizing the movement of the vehicle issued by the department or a political subdivision of this state.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 166 (H.B. 799), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter D. Local Regulations › Section 621.301. County's Authority to Set Maximum Weights

Sec. 621.301.  COUNTY'S AUTHORITY TO SET MAXIMUM WEIGHTS.  (a)  The commissioners court of a county may establish load limits for any county road or bridge only with the concurrence of the Texas Department of Transportation.  A load limit shall be deemed concurred with by the Texas Department of Transportation 30 days after the county submits to the Texas Department of Transportation the load limit accompanied by supporting documentation and calculations reviewed and sealed by an engineer licensed in this state, though the Texas Department of Transportation may review the load limit and withdraw concurrence at any time after the 30-day period.
(b)  The commissioners court may limit the maximum weights to be moved on or over a county road, bridge, or culvert by exercising its authority under this subsection in the same manner and under the same conditions provided by Section 621.102 for the Texas Department of Transportation to limit maximum weights on highways and roads to which that section applies.
(c)  The commissioners court shall record an action under Subsection (b) in its minutes.
(d)  A maximum weight set under this section becomes effective on a road when appropriate signs giving notice of the maximum weight are erected by the Texas Department of Transportation on the road under order of the commissioners court.
(e)  A vehicle operating under a permit issued under Section 623.011, 623.071, 623.094, 623.121, 623.142, 623.181, 623.192, 623.212, or 623.321, as added by Chapter 1135 (H.B. 2741), Acts of the 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, may operate under the conditions authorized by the permit over a road for which the commissioners court has set a maximum weight under this section.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 941, Sec. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1227, Sec. 5, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 61, eff. September 1, 2011.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1135 (H.B. 2741), Sec. 99, eff. September 1, 2013.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1184 (S.B. 1171), Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter D. Local Regulations › Section 621.302. Exception to County's Weight Limitations

Sec. 621.302.  EXCEPTION TO COUNTY'S WEIGHT LIMITATIONS.  A maximum weight set under Section 621.301 does not apply to a vehicle delivering groceries or farm products to a destination requiring travel over a road for which the maximum is set.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter D. Local Regulations › Section 621.303. Municipal Regulation of Loads and Equipment

Sec. 621.303.  MUNICIPAL REGULATION OF LOADS AND EQUIPMENT.  (a)  The governing body of any municipality may regulate the movement and operation on a public road, other than a state highway in the territory of the municipality, of:
(1)  an overweight, oversize, or overlength commodity that cannot reasonably be dismantled; and
(2)  superheavy or oversize equipment for the transportation of an overweight, oversize, or overlength commodity that cannot be reasonably dismantled.
(b)  The governing body of a municipality may not, because of weight, regulate the movement and operation on a state highway or county or municipal road of a combination of vehicles operating under a permit issued under Section 623.402.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 108 (S.B. 1524), Sec. 2, eff. January 1, 2018.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter D. Local Regulations › Section 621.304. Restriction on Local Government Authority to Regulate Overweight Vehicles and Loads on State Highway System

Sec. 621.304.  RESTRICTION ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTHORITY TO REGULATE OVERWEIGHT VEHICLES AND LOADS ON STATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM.  Except as expressly authorized by this subtitle, a county or municipality may not require a permit, bond, fee, or license for the movement of a vehicle or combination of vehicles or any load carried by the vehicle or vehicles on the state highway system in the county or municipality that exceeds the weight or size limits on the state highway system.
Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1135 (H.B. 2741), Sec. 100, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter E. Fees › Section 621.351. Escrow Account for Prepayment of Permit Fees

Sec. 621.351.  ESCROW ACCOUNT FOR PREPAYMENT OF PERMIT FEES.  (a)  The department may establish one or more escrow accounts in the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund for the prepayment of a fee for a permit issued by the department that authorizes the operation of a vehicle and its load or a combination of vehicles and load exceeding size or weight limitations.
(b)  The fees and any fees established by the department for the administration of this section shall be administered in accordance with an agreement containing terms and conditions agreeable to the department.
(c)  The department shall deposit each fee established under this section to the credit of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund.  The fees may be appropriated only to the department for purposes of administering this section.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1287 (H.B. 2202), Sec. 47, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter E. Fees › Section 621.352. Fees for Permits Issued Under Reciprocal Agreement

Sec. 621.352.  FEES FOR PERMITS ISSUED UNDER RECIPROCAL AGREEMENT.  (a)  The board by rule may establish fees for the administration of Section 621.003 in an amount that, when added to the other fees collected by the department, does not exceed the amount sufficient to recover the actual cost to the department of administering that section.  An administrative fee collected under this section shall be sent to the comptroller for deposit to the credit of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund and may be appropriated only to the department for the administration of Section 621.003.
(b)  A permit fee collected by the department under Section 621.003 for another state shall be sent to the comptroller for deposit to the credit of the permit distributive account in the general revenue fund.  The comptroller shall distribute money in the permit distributive account only to the proper authorities of other states and only as directed by the department.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1423, Sec. 18.12, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 62, eff. September 1, 2011.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1287 (H.B. 2202), Sec. 48, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter E. Fees › Section 621.353. Distribution of Fee for Permit for Excess Weight

Sec. 621.353.  DISTRIBUTION OF FEE FOR PERMIT FOR EXCESS WEIGHT.  (a)  The comptroller shall send $50 of each base fee collected under Section 623.011 for an excess weight permit to the counties of the state, with each county receiving an amount determined according to the ratio of the total number of miles of county roads maintained by the county to the total number of miles of county roads maintained by all of the counties of this state.  The comptroller shall deposit $40 of each base fee, plus each fee collected under Section 623.0112, to the credit of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund.  Money deposited to the credit of that fund under this subsection may be appropriated only to the department to administer this section and Sections 623.011, 623.0111, and 623.0112.
(b)  The comptroller shall send the amount due each county under Subsection (a) to the county treasurer or officer performing the function of that office at least twice each fiscal year.
(c)  The comptroller shall send each fee collected under Section 623.0111 for an excess weight permit to the counties designated on the application for the permit, with each county shown on the application receiving an amount determined according to the ratio of the total number of miles of county roads maintained by the county to the total number of miles of county roads maintained by all of the counties designated on the application.
(d)  The county treasurer or officer shall deposit amounts received under this section to the credit of the county road and bridge fund.  Money deposited to the credit of that fund under this subsection may be used only for a purpose authorized by Section 256.001(a).
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.133(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1423, Sec. 18.13, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1396 (H.B. 2093), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 700 (H.B. 441), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2011.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1287 (H.B. 2202), Sec. 49, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter E. Fees › Section 621.354. Disposition of Fees for Permit for Movement of Cylindrical Hay Bales

Sec. 621.354.  DISPOSITION OF FEES FOR PERMIT FOR MOVEMENT OF CYLINDRICAL HAY BALES.  Of each fee collected under Section 623.017, the department shall deposit:
(1)  90 percent in the state treasury to the credit of the state highway fund; and
(2)  10 percent in the state treasury to the credit of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1287 (H.B. 2202), Sec. 50, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter E. Fees › Section 621.355. Distribution of Fees for Registration of Additional Weight

Sec. 621.355.  DISTRIBUTION OF FEES FOR REGISTRATION OF ADDITIONAL WEIGHT.  (a)  If an operator or owner is required to pay for registration of additional weight under Section 621.406 in a county other than the county in which the owner resides, the assessor-collector of the county in which the payment is made shall send the amount collected to the department for deposit to the credit of the state highway fund.
(b)  The department shall send the county's share of the amount collected under Section 621.406 to the county in which the owner resides.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter E. Fees › Section 621.356. Form of Payment

Sec. 621.356.  FORM OF PAYMENT.  The board may adopt rules prescribing the method for payment of a fee for a permit issued by the department that authorizes the operation of a vehicle and its load or a combination of vehicles and load exceeding size or weight limitations.  The rules may:
(1)  authorize the use of electronic funds transfer or a credit card issued by:
(A)  a financial institution chartered by a state or the federal government; or
(B)  a nationally recognized credit organization approved by the board; and
(2)  require the payment of a discount or service charge for a credit card payment in addition to the fee.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 515, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1345 (S.B. 1420), Sec. 63, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter F. Enforcement › Section 621.401. Definition

Sec. 621.401.  DEFINITION.  In this subchapter, "weight enforcement officer" means:
(1)  a license and weight inspector of the Department of Public Safety;
(2)  a highway patrol officer;
(3)  a sheriff or sheriff's deputy;
(4)  a municipal police officer in a municipality with a population of:
(A)  100,000 or more; or
(B)  74,000 or more in a county with a population of more than 1.5 million;
(5)  a police officer certified under Section 644.101; or
(6)  a constable or deputy constable designated under Section 621.4015.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 364, Sec. 3, eff. May 27, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 17.09, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1523, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 931 (H.B. 602), Sec. 1, eff. June 18, 2005.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter F. Enforcement › Section 621.4015. Designation by Commissioners Court

Sec. 621.4015.  DESIGNATION BY COMMISSIONERS COURT.  (a)  A county commissioners court may designate a constable or deputy constable of the county as a weight enforcement officer in a county:
(1)  that is a county with a population of 1.5 million or more and is within 200 miles of an international border; or
(2)  that is adjacent to a county with a population of 3.3 million or more; and
(3)  in which a planned community is located that has 20,000 or more acres of land, that was originally established under the Urban Growth and New Community Development Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. Section 4501 et seq.), and that is subject to restrictive covenants containing ad valorem or annual variable budget based assessments on real property.
(b)  A constable or deputy constable designated under this section shall be subject to the requirements of Subchapter C, Chapter 644, Transportation Code.
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 931 (H.B. 602), Sec. 2, eff. June 18, 2005.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1163 (H.B. 2702), Sec. 175, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter F. Enforcement › Section 621.402. Weighing Loaded Vehicle

Sec. 621.402.  WEIGHING LOADED VEHICLE.  (a)  A weight enforcement officer who has reason to believe that the single axle weight, tandem axle weight, or gross weight of a loaded motor vehicle is unlawful may:
(1)  weigh the vehicle using portable or stationary scales furnished or approved by the Department of Public Safety;  or
(2)  require the vehicle to be weighed by a public weigher.
(b)  The officer may require that the vehicle be driven to the nearest available scales.
(c)  A noncommissioned employee of the Department of Public Safety who is certified for the purpose by the public safety director and who is supervised by an officer of the Department of Public Safety may, in a port of entry or at a commercial motor vehicle inspection site, weigh a vehicle, require the vehicle to be weighed, or require a vehicle to be driven to the nearest scale under Subsections (a) and (b).
(d)  Prior to assessment of a penalty for weight which exceeds the maximum allowable axle weights, the owner or operator is authorized to shift the load to reduce or eliminate such excess axle weight penalties as long as no part of the shipment is removed.
(e)  The Department of Public Safety:
(1)  shall establish by rule uniform weighing procedures for weight enforcement officers to ensure an accurate weight is obtained for a motor vehicle; and
(2)  may revoke or rescind the authority of:
(A)  a weight enforcement officer who fails to comply with those rules; or
(B)  weight enforcement officers of a municipal police department, sheriff's department, or constable's office that fails to comply with those rules.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 737, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 941, Sec. 20, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1275, Sec. 2(136), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 12 (S.B. 330), Sec. 1, eff. April 23, 2007.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 715 (H.B. 1252), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle E - Vehicle Size and Weight › Chapter 621 - General Provisions Relating to Vehicle Size and Weight › Subchapter F. Enforcement › Section 621.403. Unloading Vehicle if Gross Weight Exceeded

Sec. 621.403.  UNLOADING VEHICLE IF GROSS WEIGHT EXCEEDED.  (a)  If the gross weight of a motor vehicle weighed under Section 621.402 is heavier than the weight equal to the maximum gross weight authorized by law for that vehicle plus a tolerance allowance equal to five percent of that maximum weight, the weight enforcement officer shall require the operator or owner of the vehicle to unload a part of the load necessary to decrease the gross weight of the vehicle to a gross weight that is not heavier than the weight equal to the vehicle's maximum gross weight plus the applicable tolerance allowance.
(b)  The operator or owner of the vehicle immediately shall unload the vehicle to the extent necessary to reduce the gross weight as required by Subsection (a), and the vehicle may not be operated further over a public highway or road of this state until the gross weight has been reduced as required by Subsection (a).
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.