CA➜CT
This 3,190 mile haul crosses state lines, triggering Federal FMCSA jurisdiction.
PERMIT REQUIRED
ALERT: Trips into CT trigger the CT HUT (Connecticut Highway Use Tax) requirement if you exceed > 26,000 lbs GVW. Failure to file results in Audits & Suspended Authority. This is SEPARATE from IFTA.
MANDATORY FILINGS
The Route: California to Connecticut
This route guide provides a general overview for a commercial truck driver traveling from California to Connecticut. Due to the variety of starting points within California, this guide focuses on a central departure point, approximating travel from the Los Angeles area.
The primary Interstate Highway system used for this route will leverage I-15, I-70, and I-80.
- California (Starting Point - Los Angeles Area): Begin by taking I-15 North towards Las Vegas, Nevada.
- Nevada: Continue on I-15 North through Nevada.
- Utah: I-15 North proceeds into Utah, continue until merging onto I-70 East.
- Colorado: Follow I-70 East across Colorado, navigating through the Rocky Mountains.
- Kansas: Continue on I-70 East through Kansas.
- Missouri: I-70 East continues into Missouri.
- Illinois: Proceed on I-70 East into Illinois.
- Indiana: Continue on I-70 East into Indiana.
- Ohio: Continue on I-70 East into Ohio.
- Pennsylvania: Continue on I-70 East, merging onto I-76 East (Pennsylvania Turnpike). Follow I-76 East until approaching the Philadelphia area.
- New Jersey: Take the NJ Turnpike (I-95 North) into New Jersey.
- New York: Continue on I-95 North into New York.
- Connecticut: I-95 North will lead you into Connecticut. From there, utilize local routes (State Roads, US Highways) to reach your final destination within Connecticut.
Compliance & Permits
Several weigh stations and ports of entry will be encountered along this route. Be prepared to stop and present required documentation. Some notable locations include:
- California: Ports of Entry leaving California. Expect scales near the California/Nevada border.
- Utah: Weigh stations are common on I-70 near Green River.
- Colorado: Weigh stations are frequently operating on I-70, especially near the Eisenhower Tunnel.
- Pennsylvania: Numerous weigh stations exist on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76).
Permits:
- New York HUT (Highway Use Tax): Any motor carrier operating a commercial vehicle on New York State public highways is subject to the New York HUT if the gross vehicle weight exceeds 18,000 pounds.
- Kentucky KYU Number: If you operate a commercial vehicle with a gross weight of 60,000 pounds or more into or through the state of Kentucky, you're likely required to have a KYU number.
Check with each state's Department of Transportation (DOT) for the most up-to-date permit requirements.
Risks & Hazards
This cross-country route presents several seasonal weather risks.
- Winter: Expect snow and ice on I-70 through the Rocky Mountains (Colorado/Utah). Chain laws are often in effect. Plan for delays and carry tire chains.
- Summer: Extreme heat is possible in the desert regions of California, Nevada, and Utah. Monitor tire pressure and prevent overheating of the engine.
- Year-Round: High winds are common in open areas across the plains states (Kansas, Missouri, Illinois). Be prepared to adjust driving accordingly. Mountain passes can also experience strong unpredictable winds.
- Traffic: Major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Denver, Philadelphia, and New York City frequently experience heavy traffic congestion. Plan routes and travel times accordingly.
Remember to check weather forecasts regularly and adjust your route as needed. Drive safely and obey all traffic laws.
NEW AUTHORITY?
If this is your first time crossing state lines, you need a new MC Number (Operating Authority).
Get BMC-91X Filing →