Pell Bridge Newport Weight Restrictions

All inquiries regarding the above will be directed to the Chief of Maintenance or a designee.

RI Over-The-Road Permits

A vehicle exceeding the limitations below is required to secure an "over-the-road" permit from the State of Rhode Island. This is handled by the Registry of Motor Vehicles at: Oversize Permits 401-588-3011. RI State Police need to be notified by all over-width vehicles so that they can provide a mandatory escort over the bridge.

The regulations from the Motor Vehicle Act of the State of Rhode Island for all highways and bridges impose limitations as follows:

Length: 40’0” – single unit. Tractor semi-trailer combinations – no overall length limit but semi-trailer can not be more than 55’0” ft.

Width: 8’6”

Height: 13’6”

Weight: Rhode Island Bridge Formula

Vehicles exceeding the posted weight limit of 40 tons or the above sizes must obtain a RI permit to cross the bridge.

The R.I. Turnpike and Bridge Authority also requires an additional permit for crossing the bridge. The Registry notifies the applicants to contact us for this permit if they expect to use the facility. An application will be faxed to the requesting party after contacting the Authority's business office at (401) 423-0800. After completion by them it will be returned. The Chief of Maintenance will review it and set forth the toll to be paid based on the weight. Once the permit is issued it will be distributed as follows:

1. Applicant, 2. Finance Department, 3. Plaza Supervisor, 4. Chief of Maintenance.

The vehicle will require assistance at the toll plaza. The toll will be collected and the bridge employee will designate a lane for passing through the toll plaza. The toll will be submitted with the permit to the business office the next day.

All vehicles requiring a State of R.I. permit must have one. Proof will be required upon making application for an Authority permit. If, however, a vehicle is in question and has neither permit, the driver will be informed that they are not allowed to use the bridge, and that the State Police will be contacted.