Licence rules for towing and RVs

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain why a personal RV usually does not need a CDL.
• You can find your vehicle's GVWR, GCWR and length and compare them with your state's limits.
• You can describe how a non-commercial Class A or B license differs from a CDL.
• You can recognize when using an RV or trailer for work could make CDL rules apply.

What you need to know and understand

• Federal CDL classes are based on weight ratings: 26,001 pounds or more for a single vehicle (Class B), and the same combined rating with a towed unit over 10,000 pounds (Class A).
• Those CDL rules apply to vehicles used in commerce. An RV driven only for personal use generally does not need a CDL.
• Some states still require a non-commercial Class A or B license, or a special endorsement, for heavy or long RVs and trailers.
• Texas, for example, says personal RV drivers are exempt from the CDL but may need a non-CDL Class A or B license if the vehicle meets those weight levels.
• California, for example, uses non-commercial Class A for trailer coaches over 10,000 pounds GVWR or fifth-wheel trailers over 15,000 pounds, and non-commercial Class B for motorhomes over 40 feet up to 45 feet.
• If you use a truck and trailer for business, such as hauling equipment or paid deliveries, federal and state commercial rules may apply even if it feels like a hobby setup.

Check your numbers first

Use the rated weights, not what the RV weighs empty. States usually go by the manufacturer's rating.

1. Find the GVWR on the motorhome or tow vehicle door-post label and on the trailer's plate or sticker.
2. Work out the GCWR (the combined rating) from the tow vehicle's specifications.
3. Measure the overall length, especially for motorhomes and towing setups.
4. Compare those figures with the license classes in your state driver manual or DMV website.

Non-commercial license vs CDL

• CDL: for driving heavy, passenger or hazmat vehicles in commerce. Federal medical card, entry-level training for Class A and B, and stricter rules.
• Non-commercial Class A or B: offered by some states for heavy private RVs and trailers. Usually a knowledge test and a skills test in a vehicle like yours, but no federal CDL requirements.
• Regular license with an endorsement: some states, such as California, use an endorsement for certain mid-size fifth-wheel trailers instead of a full class change.
• Regular license only: what most drivers of standard motorhomes and small trailers need.

Traveling across state lines

Your home state license is generally honored when you drive your RV in other states. Problems arise mainly when you move states, or when your RV or trailer is heavier than your license class allows. Before a long trip, also check state rules on trailer brakes, safety chains, towing speed limits and riding in a towed trailer, as these differ widely: see your state driver manual.

Common mistakes

• Assuming a personal RV can never need a special license. Check your state's weight and length limits.
• Using the RV's empty weight instead of its weight rating.
• Buying a bigger trailer and forgetting the combined rating may now push you into a higher class.
• Using an RV or trailer setup for paid work without checking commercial rules.

Test yourself: Licence rules for towing and RVs

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.