Forum Discussion

Colbie_s_family's avatar
Colbie_s_family
Explorer II
May 06, 2018

Non-commercial Class B license

When we purchased our first RV, I asked if a special license was required to drive RV's and was told no. Well that RV was 36' and that answer was correct. However, we upgraded to a Phaeton 40AH, which is listed on the specs as appx 41.5'. I now know after driving it last year for 5 months, that if it is indeed over 40', I now need a non-commercial Class B license. Ignorance was bliss!

I am now in the process of learning what I need to do to get this license. I've seen some older posts and it seems that experiences vary depending on where and when others have received theirs. Has anyone from southern CA recently applied for this license and taken the written and driving tests? If so, can you provide me with some feedback re: what I should be reviewing to prepare for both of these exams?

Also, between now and when I am able to get the license, does anyone know what happens if you are stopped and don't have it yet?

Thanks for any info.
Class A
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    May 06, 2018
    wolfe10 wrote:
    And, I would suggest exactly the opposite.

    Were you ever involved in an accident and were not properly licensed to drive the vehicle you are in, you would be open to both police and perhaps additional legal/liability issues.


    yep, that would be my first statement to the cop, is he licensed to drive that big a rv? Is that too wide for this road. etc.
    bumpy
  • wolfe10's avatar
    wolfe10
    Explorer
    May 06, 2018
    And, I would suggest exactly the opposite.

    Were you ever involved in an accident and were not properly licensed to drive the vehicle you are in, you would be open to both police and perhaps additional legal/liability issues.
  • azdryheat's avatar
    azdryheat
    Explorer
    May 06, 2018
    Me, I wouldn't worry about getting the license on the grounds that you're driving a 40 footer, hence the 40AH model number. When was the last time you got pulled over driving any motorhome? I'll bet it's a pretty slim chance your license would ever come up. What cop knows anything about a motorhome? If he does I bet he'll be looking for one with a tag axle as 99% of those are over 40 feet. Just tell him it's a 40 footer. He won't know the difference and I doubt he's going to get out a tape measure.

    Bottom line is I wouldn't get a non-commercial CDL for your rig.

About Motorhome Group

38,705 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 26, 2025