FHWA

Definition

FHWA - the Federal Highway Administration - is the US Department of Transportation agency responsible for federal highway infrastructure programs, motor carrier size and weight limits, and the national bridge inventory. FHWA is distinct from FMCSA: FHWA focuses on the road, FMCSA on the carrier. FHWA administers the size and weight limits codified in 23 CFR Part 658 - the 80,000-lb gross limit, 20,000-lb single-axle limit, and Federal Bridge Formula for axle spacing. State permit programs for oversize/overweight loads operate under FHWA's federal framework but are administered state-by-state.