California Non-commercial class A license ***New question***

AirSupport wrote:

94-D2 wrote:
So,

Been a LEO (not local PD or Sheriff) for the past 25 years and hold a commercial class A license. Been through each scenario that has been spoken about on this thread. Allow me to substantiate most of what is being said.

Driver’s license violations are essentially a secondary violation. Meaning, I can’t stop you just because I want to see if your properly licensed. A license check point IS constitutional if it is in conjunction with a DUI checkpoint. If it is legal in your state, then reciprocity is extended in CA (unless your a cheater and operating in commerce).

Most DMV employees and Leo’s (not all) generally do not understand the complexities of licensing requirements nor actually know what licenses, endorsements or restrictions are available and what is required depending on equipment. But, if need be, they will seek resources. A sales person will sell you anything and not really care how you are licensed. A non commercial class A is only good for driving/pulling an RV not for hire (what about these people that deliver an RV from a dealer. They need a commercial class A).

Almost every horse person with a horse trailer with or without quarters does not have a proper license (I have yet to find a properly licensed operator in all my years with few exception). You must have a commercial class A license with double endorsement to pull more than one trailer in CA. 65’ is the statutory length limitation in CA for any combination of vehicles (doubles can be 75’ but no RV combination can meet the parameters). Finally, yes, You must bring an appropriately licensed operator to your drive test or you will fail your test attempt and potentially be cited.

Driving out of class is an infraction (unless hazmat) and driving without a proper endorsement can be a “ fix it” ticket or regular infraction. More importantly, driving out of class is an automatic out of service order. Meaning, at worst your vehicle can be impounded or (least) placed out of service until deemed to be in compliance. Like dropping a trailer or obtaining a properly licensed operator.

This stuff is no joke. It can be costly, unsafe, inconvenient and will certainly ruin a vacation. Do it right and get properly educated, trained, licensed and insured. It’s the only way to be confident, responsible and safe. That will help ensure you enjoy your road trip.

94,

Thanks for the 411. Another question which I wasn’t able to find an answer for... in Cali is there anything special about pulling a fifth wheel with a typical “dually” (Ford, Dodge, GM) where the combined weight of the two mandates any other licensing requirements? Reason I ask is I read in another forum someone claiming this, but ther person didn’t cite a vehicle code. The thread was over 8 years old and there was no other details.

My plan was to get a new Dodge 3500 4x4 crew cab dually that has a GVWR of 14,000lbs (according the the website) and the fifth wheel we love is around 19,000lbs GVWR. Total combined GVWR = 33,000lbs. THE DMV licensing class chart doesn’t mention anything about a combined fifth wheel and truck weight, so I figured I’m good to go with just a non-commercial Class-A, right? (If you know).

Many Thanks in advance.