Where to learn the basics for free, and where to check each state's rules. Links only.
Read this first. Pilot car rules are set by each state and they change. This page is a starting point, not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for the state permit office. Last checked November 9, 2026.
A pilot/escort vehicle operator, called a P/EVO or pilot car driver, drives with an oversize load to warn other drivers and help the load driver.
Who is needed on a move, what they must carry and whether a certification is required are set by each state and change over time. We do not list them. Ask the state's permit office and read your permit.
Sources: FHWA training manual, Module 1
FHWA publishes a pilot/escort training manual, a student study guide, a best practices guide and a slide course for free. They do not replace a state's own requirements, but they are a good place for someone new to start. Training companies such as Evergreen Safety Council also offer courses. Check with the state before you pay for one.
Sources: FHWA certification course; FHWA student study guide; FHWA training manual, Module 1; FHWA training manual, Module 2; FHWA training manual, Module 5; FHWA best practices guide; Evergreen Safety Council courses
The federal government does not issue oversize permits. Each state does, and each state's permit office can tell you what a load needs. FHWA keeps a list of every state's oversize/overweight permit office with phone numbers and web links.
Sources: FHWA state permit contacts
Oversize Escort Hub is a place where carriers and brokers post loads and pilot car drivers find them. Posting, finding loads and creating an account are free right now.
Make a free account as an escort, add the states you cover so you get alerts for them, and fill in your vehicle. You can then browse three boards: Flat Rate (fixed pay, direct hire), Open Bid (you bid, the carrier compares) and the 5-Minute Bid Board (live loads on a timer).
Nobody here checks or verifies anyone: licenses, certifications and insurance are shown as the people entered them. Check them yourself before you hire or accept work.
It depends on the state and on the permit. We do not list the rules. Ask the permit office of each state you will drive in; FHWA keeps a contact list with phone numbers and links.
That is set by each state and by your permit, and it changes. We do not list it. Ask the state permit office, and read the free FHWA training material linked on this page.
FHWA publishes a pilot/escort training manual, study guide and slide course for free. The links are on this page. They do not replace what each state asks for.
Make a free account on Oversize Escort Hub, add the states you cover, and watch the flat-rate, open-bid and 5-minute bid boards.
Everything above is our own summary of these pages. Read the originals for the full detail. Evergreen Safety Council is a training company, not a government agency.