(1) Upon request, a vehicle weight analysis shall be conducted by the department for a specific vehicle configuration, axle spacings, axle weights, and gross weight to determine the conditions of travel for the movement of overweight vehicles or loads.

(a) The analysis is transferable only to an identical vehicle configuration.

(b) If there is any change in the vehicle configuration, axle spacings, axle weights, or gross weight, the analysis is invalid and a new vehicle weight analysis must be requested.

(c) When obtaining an overweight permit, it is the responsibility of the permittee to provide a previously issued vehicle weight analysis, or to request an initial analysis.

(d) The permittee must carry a copy of the vehicle weight analysis in the assigned vehicle and be able to produce it for inspection by an officer.

(2) Upon request, a route analysis shall be conducted by the department when necessary, and issued as an annual approval, when submitted for a specific vehicle configuration, axle spacing, axle weights, gross weight, and route of travel to determine the conditions of travel for the movement of overweight vehicles or loads upon a specific route.

(a) When obtaining an overweight permit, a route analysis must be requested by the permittee each time there is a change of axle weights, vehicle configuration, or a new route of travel is required.

(b) Only the Helena MCS office is authorized to issue permits for a vehicle configuration operating under the conditions of a route analysis.