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Axle Balance Tandem hole rules by state District of Columbia
District of Columbia tandem hole rules: special kingpin rule
For a 53 ft van, reefer or flatbed with a sliding tandem · Checked October 2026
Special Washington, DC is a 48 ft semitrailer district under federal rules. Check DDOT routes and permits before running a 53 ft trailer.
How to read it
Read the rule above carefully. It only applies in some cases or uses a different measurement, so check the source before you slide far back.
Source
23 CFR Part 658 Appendix B. Rules checked October 2026. Laws and enforcement change, so confirm with the state before you rely on this.
Set it in the app
In Axle Balance, open State rules and tap District of Columbia, or plan a route through it. Pro shows which tandem holes are legal for your trailer and warns you before a slide would put you over a state's limit. New to sliding? Read how to slide tandems.
Other states
Know which way to slide before you get back on the scale. Axle Balance is a free calculator made by a trucker. Enter your scale ticket and it tells you which way to slide your tandems and how many holes, plus your fifth wheel. Works offline in the cab.
Open the free calculatorEstimates and general information only, not legal advice. Laws change and enforcement varies. Always confirm on a certified scale and with the state before you rely on it. See the Terms of Use.