What Trucks Have To Stop At Weigh Stations In Alberta?

Did you know? If you’re hitting the road in a truck other than a private passenger vehicle, you’re subject to commercial vehicle regulations. That means you’ll need to know its weight, especially if you’re carrying a load. To help keep you in compliance on the highway, here’s our complete guide to truck weigh stations in Alberta.

What is the CVIP?

The Commercial Vehicle Inspection Program (CVIP), regulated by Alberta Transportation, ensures commercial vehicles meet provincial and federal safety standards. If your vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 11,794 kg and is used for commercial purposes, it must pass an annual CVIP inspection.

This process includes a comprehensive inspection by a certified technician, and covers:

• Brakes
• Steering and suspension
• Electrical systems
• Safety equipment
• Emission control system
• Frame and body for damage and rust
• Other systems, including fuel, cooling, and exhaust

Inspection Stations in Alberta

In Alberta, your vehicle may be inspected for weight, as well as its dimensions, including height, length, width, and axle spacing. The goal is to ensure your vehicle doesn’t pose a threat to yourself or others on the road.

There are two types of inspection stations in the province, both with weigh scales:

• VIS, or vehicle inspection stations, with scales operated by attendants
• MIS, or mobile inspection stations, with scales but no attendants on hand

Want to know where the scales are? The province posts a list of all inspection station locations on its website.

When to Stop at a Truck Weigh Station in Alberta

Because heavy trucks are more difficult to control on the road, weigh stations along Alberta’s highways help ensure goods are being transported safely and in accordance with regulations. Trucks loaded above capacity are more likely to roll over and require much more stopping distance. They also put more pressure on the vehicle’s tires, increasing the risk of a blowout.

According to Alberta law, if your commercial vehicle weighs over 4,500 kilograms, you must report to a truck weigh station when the highway lights are flashing. You can avoid needless delays by keeping your vehicle compliant. The province publishes detailed guidelines on acceptable weights and dimensions for all vehicle types. Some loads may be exempt, but only for that specific trip.

If your truck is found to be overweight, you will be pulled to the side and held at the station until a second truck can take a portion of your load, or another solution is found. You may also be subject to fines in Alberta.

How to Prepare Your Truck for Alberta Weigh Stations

The best way to prepare for a weigh station in Alberta is to ensure your truck is fully compliant before you hit the road. Complete a thorough pre-trip inspection and confirm your load is within legal weight limits.

Before heading out, review the locations of upcoming weigh stations so you can plan your route and prepare to stop. Most weigh stations have two lanes—one with a scale and one bypass lane—along with a lightboard displaying instructions such as “STOP,” “BACK UP,” or “PARK.”

If your truck is loaded, proceed slowly through the scale lane. If empty, you may use the bypass lane—unless directed otherwise. In all cases, follow the lightboard instructions carefully.
If the sign reads “PARK,” pull into the designated lot and bring all required vehicle and driver documentation into the inspection building.

Compliance Makes Good Business Sense

Avoid penalties, delays, and unnecessary downtime by keeping your trucks within regulatory weight limits. Reliable, well-maintained truck scales are more than a convenience—they’re a smart investment in your bottom line.

As accredited inspectors under the Weights and Measures Act, Accurate/Western Scale is authorized by Measurement Canada to assess trade devices and issue government certification stickers. We’ll help keep your truck scales compliant, so your fleet can sail through highway inspections with confidence.

Truck Scale Sales, Rentals, Calibration & Certification In Alberta

At Accurate Western Scale, we provide dependable weighing solutions for loads of all sizes. Whether you need a permanent truck scale installation, a portable option for weighing on the go, or a short-term rental, we’ve got you covered. Our expert team is here to help keep your fleet safe, compliant, and on schedule.

Planning your next trip through Alberta? Make sure your trucks are within regulation. Contact Accurate Western Scale or visit our website to explore our full range of truck scale solutions. Let’s keep you road-ready and inspection-ready—every time.