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Do You Need a Special License for an RV?
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Summary
It depends on your state: federal rules let states extend commercial license requirements to RV drivers. In California, for example, the DMV handbook says a basic Class C covers a motorhome 40 feet or less, 40 to 45 feet needs a noncommercial Class B, and heavier trailers or fifth wheels need a noncommercial Class A. Confirm current rules with your DMV.
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Full transcript
0:02 Do you need a special license to drive an RV?
0:06 It depends on your state.
0:08 Federal rules let states extend commercial license requirements to RV drivers, so each state decides.
0:14 California is one example.
0:16 Its DMV handbook says a basic Class C license covers a motorhome 40 feet or less.
0:22 A motorhome over 40 feet, up to 45 feet, needs a noncommercial Class B with an endorsement.
0:29 Towing a travel trailer over 10,000 pounds, or a fifth wheel over 15,000 pounds, needs a noncommercial Class A.
0:37 And towing more than one vehicle needs a commercial Class A.
0:41 Confirm the current rules with the DMV.
0:44 To check your own state, write down the RV's length and gross vehicle weight rating, and the trailer's GVWR if you tow.
0:52 Then compare them with your state's handbook.
0:54 You can find your state's agency through USA.gov.
0:58 Details at OpenSkiesRV.com.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a CDL to drive an RV?
Not under federal rules for personal use, but FMCSA says states may extend CDL requirements to RV drivers. Check your state DMV.
Can I drive a 45-foot motorhome in California on a regular license?
California’s DMV handbook says a basic Class C covers housecars 40 feet or less; a housecar over 40 and up to 45 feet needs a noncommercial Class B with endorsement. Confirm on the DMV site.
Does towing a large fifth wheel need a different license?
In California, the DMV handbook says a fifth-wheel travel trailer over 15,000 lbs. GVWR needs a noncommercial Class A. Other states set their own limits.
Sources
Related guides
Do You Need a Special License to Drive an RV? How to Check Your State
Whether you need a different license class to drive or tow a large RV depends on your state. What FMCSA says about states and RV drivers, a California example with length and weight limits, and how to check your own state.
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Education only: general information, not legal, insurance, mechanical or other professional advice for your situation. Rules, fees, recalls and campground policies change and vary by state, park and manufacturer, so check the official source we link, your RV’s manual or a qualified technician before you act. We may earn money from ads and paid links; our advice isn’t for sale.