Are you thinking about buying or renting an RV? If so, then you should know that there are several types of licenses required to operate an RV.
RVs are becoming increasingly popular these days. They offer great flexibility and freedom, allowing you to travel wherever you want whenever you want.
Do I Need a Special License to Drive an RV?
Recreational vehicle drivers often think that they need a special license to operate their RV. However, in most cases, you don’t need a special license to legally drive your RV.
There are a few exceptions though. For example, if you live in California, you will need a special license to run your RV. Additionally, if you live in New Jersey, you will need a permit to drive your RV.
However, most other states don’t require a special license to operate your RV. So check your state’s DMV website to see if you need a special license to safely drive your RV.
Which States Require a Special License to drive an RV?
There are only a handful of states that require a specific license to drive an RV. These states include:
Arkansas – Vehicles over 26,000 pounds Gross Weight
California – Motorhomes over 40 feet long, trailers weighing over 10 000 pounds, or fifth wheels over 15,000 pounds
Hawaii – RVs over 26,000 pounds or multiple vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross weight
Kansas – RVs over 26000 pounds or multiple vehicles of 26,000 pounds gross weigh
New Mexico – RVs over 26,000 pounds or multiple vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross weight
New York – RVs over 26,000 pounds or multiple vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross weight (single or gross combined)
North Carolina – Single or gross combined vehicle weight of over 26,000 pounds
Pennsylvania – Single or gross combined weight of over 26,000 pounds
Texas – RVs over 26,000 pounds or multiple vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross weight (single or gross combined)
Washington DC – RVs over 26,000 pounds or multiple vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross weight or towables over 10,000 pounds gross weight
Types of special licenses for an RV
License requirements for commercial driver’s licenses vary by state. Some states require a commercial driver’s license for vehicles over 26,000 pounds, while others only require a non-commercial license for vehicles that exceed a certain weight or size. Still, others may require that you get an endorsement added to your regular driver’s license. Your state’s DMV can provide you with specific information about the requirements in your state.
Commercial Driver’s License
If you need to obtain a CDL, you must visit the DMV to take a vision test and a written exam. After a certain period, you can schedule a road skills exam. Once you pass all necessary exams, you will be granted your CDL. You may be able to waive the written exam if you are a veteran and can provide proof of completion of a military truck driver training course.
Non-Commercial Driver’s License
To apply for a non-commercial license, you will need to follow many of the same steps as you would for a standard driver’s license. Make an appointment with the DMV to take a vision exam, written test, and driving test. However, the process is generally quicker for a non-commercial license.
Driver’s License Endorsement
Depending on the state, you will need to fill out an application, pay a small fee, and take a written skills or road test in order to endorse your license.
What Kind of License Do I Need to Drive an RV?
The rules for obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) vary by state. Always check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the most up-to-date requirements. In general, single vehicles with a gross weight or combination of vehicles gross weight of 26,000 pounds or less, do not require a CDL.