rv van owner

rv and camper license questions and answers

• cannon
• February 17, 2021April 21, 2021
• 0

Driving an RV

Driving an RV looks like a lot of fun. You get to go where you want, sleep where you want and have a good time on the road. yet, Not everyone knows what requirements they need to drive to operate one of those recreational vehicles.

They are not sure what type of license they need, especially if they are going to operate one of the large Class A rigs. these questions should help everyone learn what they need in order to enjoy the freedom that comes with RV vacations.

#1. Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

Not necessarily. For most RVs, no matter their class, your regular driver’s license is enough to let you get behind the wheel and see the country.

#2. How do I know I can drive an RV on my regular license?

Most states limit RV operation by weight. If the driveable rig is under 26,000 pounds or is less than 10,000 pounds when towed, then you can drive the RV or the truck hauling the trailer or 5th wheel.

#3. I heard I need a commercial driver’s license to drive an RV. Is that true?

It is partially true. There are 8 states that require a commercial driver’s license to operate an RV. 6 of those states say that if the RVs weigh over 26,000 pounds then you need a commercial driver’s license. One state, Wisconsin, has no weight boundary but if the RV is over 45 feet long then a commercial driver’s license is required.

#4. Are there any other states that require special licenses to drive an RV?

Yes, there are 10 other states that have placed driver’s license restrictions for the operation of an RV. Most of those requirements involve the weight of the RV and a Class B license will be needed if the rig is over 26,000 pounds. One state, New York, requires a Recreational Vehicle or R endorsement instead.

#5. How many states do not require a special license to drive an RV?

35 states allow you to use your regular driver’s license to operate an RV no matter the class or the size and weight.

#6. Do I need a special license to drive an RV in Canada?

While there are laws in Canada about driving an RV and those laws change from province to province you are not a citizen of that country so you will be exempt from their laws. All you need to do is meet the RV driver’s license requirements of your home state and you will be legal to drive your RV in that country.

#7. Can a person from Europe drive an RV in America?

If the person is from an English-speaking country then no they would not need to have a special license. But if they are from a non-English speaking country then they would most likely need to get an international driver’s license before they drive any vehicle in America.

#8. How do I get more information on a driver’s license?

The best thing to do is contact your local DMV office and ask them about current laws and regulations. Then ask them about driving to another state. The DMV is the best source to get the official information.

#9. How do I avoid needing a commercial or non-commercial driver’s license when I want to drive an RV?

All you have to do is change your plans and drive a lighter or smaller RV> Most Class A RVs weigh between 11,000 and 30,000 pounds so all you have to do is find one under 26,000 pounds and you are good to go.

All Class C & B RVs weigh less than 26,000 pounds so you can drive any model you want to from those Classes.

#10. Do I need a special license to tow a trailer?

The boundary line is 10,000 pounds when towing a trailer. If the trailer is under 10,000 pounds then no you won’t. But if it is over that marker, then yes you will have to get a commercial or non-commercial license to tow it.

#11. What age limit is there to drive an RV?

There is no real age limit as in most states an 80-year-old person with a valid license can buy and drive the RV off the lot without a problem. Normally, a driver has to be over the age of 18 but that may change from state to state.

Some final words

The best thing to do if you still have questions about the laws concerning driving an RV in your state or into other states is to call your local DMV and ask them all your questions.

As it stands at the moment, anyone can drive almost any RV or tow a trailer as long as they have a regular driver’s license and the weight of the RV and trailer is under 26,000 and 10,000 pounds respectively.