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dedmiston's avatar
dedmiston
Moderator
Jan 12, 2018

CA Non Commercial Class A License Question

Does anyone know what the trailer requirements are for the practical test? What kind of trailer do you need to bring to the practical? Does it have to be a 5th wheel over 15k#, or can you bring a smaller trailer to take the test?

29 Replies

  • azdryheat wrote:
    On a side note, I wonder how many CA drivers get the non-CDL?


    Your chances are slim to none of getting stopped to check your class of lic unless your on S86 headed south from I-10 on a busy week-end
  • momentum rv wrote:
    azdryheat wrote:
    On a side note, I wonder how many CA drivers get the non-CDL?


    I would say not very many since most of the DMV offices don't even know how to properly test for this class.


    Not every office provides for CDL/non-CDL testing
  • azdryheat wrote:
    On a side note, I wonder how many CA drivers get the non-CDL?


    I think it's starting to become more known, as someone I know at work recently bought a 16.5k GVWR Montana. I asked if they knew about the Non Comm A license and she responded that yes, their dealer had informed them of it during the purchase, and her husband had already gotten the license after they purchased it. The three friends I've ridden with to take their test found out about it from either myself or other friends of theirs.

    The dealer I bought my 5th Wheel from didn't know about it (or didn't tell me) until I brought it to their attention.
  • azdryheat wrote:
    On a side note, I wonder how many CA drivers get the non-CDL?


    I would say not very many since most of the DMV offices don't even know how to properly test for this class.
  • azdryheat wrote:
    On a side note, I wonder how many CA drivers get the non-CDL?


    No way to tell....however - EASY answer:

    *If* you wish to be legal, you will have the necessary driver's license in your possession for what you are driving and/or towing in *your* state of residence (reciprocity applies).....or risk the consequences (and liability) if you are not properly licensed for same..:S

    :C
  • I was also told it needs to be a trailer matching the license being sought. I then asked what I should do if I was preparing to own one I didn't have yet, answer was borrow or rent. I then asked how do I tow it if I don't have the license yet, answer was find someone who does.

    It took 3 months for me to get through the entire process, luckily I never got pulled over during the wait.
  • Yes it has to be a 5th wheel over 15k GVWR or Travel Trailer over 10k GVWR. A friend tried to use his old 5ver which was 14k GVWR and was told no.

    Rich
  • Per the 'CA RV & Trailer Handbook'


    *
    *
    *
    *Pass a pre-trip inspection test.
    *Pass the skills test.
    *Pass a driving test while towing the type of vehicle you wish
    to be licensed for



    Handbook LINK