Rules for restricted truck lanes are contained in Texas Transportation Code, Sections , and Texas Administrative Code (T.A.C.), . These rules authorize a city, county, or TxDOT to restrict through traffic, by class of vehicle, to two or more designated lanes of traffic on certain portions of the designated state highway system.

As the state routing agency, TxDOT is required to approve all new lane restrictions or revisions to existing lane restrictions. A city or county cannot simply pass an ordinance or resolution to establish a lane restriction.