Texas Oversized Load Bond: Form 439 Guide
Transporting oversized or superheavy equipment across Texas highways? Before you can pull a permit, you must have a $10,000 Oversize/Overweight Permit Bond (Form 439) on file with the TxDMV.
⚡ Form 439 Quick Facts
- • Required Bond Amount: $10,000
- • Official Form: TxDMV Form 439
- • Annual Premium: $100 - $1,000 (usually $100 flat)
- • Expiration Date: August 31st (Every year)
- • Obligee: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV)
What is the Form 439 Permit Bond?
The Texas Oversize/Overweight Permit Bond, officially known as Form 439, is a $10,000 fianza (bond) required for carriers to legally transport oversized or overweight loads.
This bond acts as a financial guarantee that the carrier will pay for any damages caused to Texas highways, bridges, or public property during the transportation of permitted equipment. It is not insurance for your vehicle; it is a contract between the carrier (principal), the surety company, and the TxDMV (obligee).
Who Needs a Texas Oversized Load Bond?
Generally, any motor carrier who needs an oversize or overweight permit from the TxDMV must have this bond on file if they are not already subject to Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) or certain Motor Carrier Registration (MCR) requirements.
If you are applying for "Superheavy" permits or specialized overweight equipment permits, you will almost certainly be required to submit Form 439.
How Much Does the Form 439 Bond Cost?
The price for a $10,000 Texas permit bond is surprisingly low. Most surety companies offer this bond for a flat annual rate of $100.
Because the bond amount is relatively small ($10,000), many providers do not require a credit check for instant issuance.
Form 439 Bond Cost Details
- • Flat Rate: Usually $100 per year
- • Prorated Premium: The cost may be lower if purchased mid-year, as all bonds expire on August 31st.
- • Credit Check: Often not required for this bond type.
Filing Requirements & August 31st Deadline
The TxDMV has very specific rules for filing Form 439. Here is what you need to know:
- Annual Expiration: All Texas oversized load bonds expire on August 31st each year. You must renew your bond annually to continue pulling permits after September 1st.
- Original Document: While the TxDMV may accept a faxed or emailed copy for temporary permit issuance (valid for 10 days), the original bond document must be mailed to and received by the TxDMV in Austin for your account to remain active.
- Signatures: The bond must be signed by both the carrier (the principal) and an authorized Texas-licensed insurance agent.
- Seal/Power of Attorney: A valid corporate seal or a Power of Attorney from the surety company must be attached to the bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my bond issued instantly?
Yes. Most providers can issue the bond immediately upon payment. You will receive a PDF copy to use for temporary permit filing.
Where do I mail the original bond?
The original Form 439 should be mailed to: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Motor Carrier Division - OS/OW Permits, P.O. Box 5020, Austin, TX 78763-5020.
Can I use a "Certificate of Continuation" for renewal?
No. The TxDMV requires a brand new Form 439 bond to be filed each year before the August 31st deadline.
Get Your $10,000 Texas Permit Bond Today
We offer instant issuance of TxDMV Form 439 bonds for the flat annual rate of $100. Get your bond today and start pulling permits.
Get Your Form 439 Bond →Instant PDF • No Credit Check • $100 Annual Rate