Oversize Load Certification

Requirements:

The Georgia Department of Transportation will administer the Oversize/Overweight Load Escort Vehicle Operator Certification Program. Any operator authorized to escort a permitted  oversize/overweight load in Georgia shall make application to GDOT and meet the following requirements:

1. Is at least 21 years of age; or Is at least 18 years of age with a Class A commercial driver’s license; or Is at least 18 years of age, has been employed as an escort driver for at least one year, and is sponsored by his/her employer for entry into the certification program and completes all certification requirements prior to July 1, 2011; and
2. Possesses a valid driver’s license without restrictions other than for use of corrective lens and has demonstrated evidence of operating a motor vehicle safely which includes not operating in a reckless manner or driving while impaired in the previous 12 months; and
3. Possesses documentation of completion of a defensive driving course approved by the National Safety Council or an equivalent course.

Each qualified applicant will be required to complete eight classroom hours of Georgia Department of Transportation Oversize/Overweight Permit Unit’s Escort Vehicle Operator Certification Program offered by the Georgia Technical College System with an examination score of at least 80% to obtain the official certification of the State.

The certification shall be effective for four years from the issue date.

Georgia Department of Transportation will recognize escort vehicle operator certifications from other states for operators that currently have a valid out-of-state driver’s license and certification. Operators with an out-of-state driver’s license without a valid certification, and all operators with a Georgia driver’s license, will be required to obtain a certification from the state of Georgia. All escort vehicle operator certifications and a valid driver’s license is required to be available in the escort vehicle for inspection whenever the operator is performing the role of escort. Failure to conform to escort vehicle operator requirements shall result in penalties imposed under the Georgia Annotated Title 32 Highways, Bridges and Ferries.