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TenOC's avatar
TenOC
Nomad
Jul 12, 2017

Visit in California with large fith-wheel -- License????

As posted from a different post. I did not want to highjack

I live in the SF Bay Area. I just ordered a 5th wheel from a dealer in Portland, OR where I will go to pick it up. Towing that fiver in CA requires a Class A non-commercial license because it has a GVWR over 15,000#.

I do not live in California, but next year I plan to visit (camp) for about 4 to 6 weeks while touring the norther part of the state. My FW is over 15,000#. Will I have a problem?? Has any out of state RVs gotten a ticket? Or is this license requirement only for people with CA license?
  • Folks, the OP said he started a new topic in order to avoid hijacking another members thread. I have deleted several posts here that were not only hijacking the op's thread but were clearly political in nature, which is against the forum rules, of which you all should be familiar.

    Please, lets keep the posts on the topic and refrain from making political comments - however disguised they may be. Thanks.
    Barney
  • The only thing you might want to pay attention to is total length expecially if your towing doubles as that number veryies from state to state.. There are some states you can not tow doubles
  • I even double tow in CA, ZERO issues. I am licensed SD. I tow at 60 with the MAX posted speed 55.

  • For the basic licensing requirements, as mentioned you only have to comply with the requirements from your state. I've been at the Glamis Dunes when the state of California had checkpoints in place and for us out of state folks, they just waved us through even though I was definitely heavy enough to need the special licensing if a California resident. Things like length, and double towing requirements are things you still have to comply with.
  • As far as licensing is concerned, the other posters are correct. However, you still must obey the laws of the state you are visiting. In CA for example, If you have a MH over 40', you have restrictions on what exits from Interstates you can take and how far away from the exit you can get. Some times there are weight restrictions and width requirements in different states.
    My advice to you, if you are concerned about your rig, is to review the requirements in whatever state you plan on visiting-not just CA. There are a number of resources, including this forum, that point you to the laws of states. Familiarize yourself with them so you don't have a problem.
  • "My FW is over 15,000#. Will I have a problem??"

    How long, TenOC? Lots of our state parks have short limits. Here's some help for your planning: http://www.parks.ca.gov/RVlength/
  • As others have said if you are properly licensed in your home state . But your rig must be legal for the state your driving in, example towing a 5er plus a boat isn't legal everywhere.
  • As long as you, and your vehicles are licensed in another state , you only must meet your home states requirements on that,
  • You are only required to meet your home state's licensing regulations. You can visit anywhere without needing to meet the local requirements, as those are only for residents.