Do You Need a Special License to Drive an RV?

Did you know that road trips remain one of the most popular forms of travel in a post-pandemic world? Over 200 million Americans took a road trip this year.

One of the best ways to see the country is in the convenience of an RV. RV travel provides you with everything you need to be comfortable in any location.

Do you need a special license to drive an RV? Keep reading to find out.

Do You Need a Special License to Drive an RV?

The answer to this question depends on the type of motorhome you have. If you own a Class B or C vehicle, you can drive an RV with your regular driver’s license in any state.

If you have a Class A RV that is heavier than 26,000 pounds or longer than 40 feet, you might need a special license. For exact requirements, check with the DMV in your state.

Do you need a special license to drive an RV that is towing a trailer?

If you have lighter RVs, you won’t need a special license to drive them, but this can change if you tow a trailer that makes the combined weight more than 26,000 pounds. This rule depends on your state.

Types of Special RV Licenses

An RV license doesn’t exist, but your state might require you to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or a non-commercial driver’s license.

Other states might require RV drivers to add an endorsement to their regular driver’s licenses. You’ll only need these types of special licenses to drive an RV if the vehicle weighs more than 26,000 pounds.

It’s especially important to get the correct licensing if you share an RV rather than owning one.

Commercial Driver’s License

If your state requires you to obtain a CDL, you’ll need to visit the DMV for a vision test and written exam. After some time, you’ll be able to book a road skills exam. Once you pass the necessary exams, you’ll receive your CDL.

These tests won’t teach you exactly how to drive an RV, but you will learn how to maneuver a larger vehicle.

If you are a veteran who can prove that you have experience driving military trucks, you might be able to skip the written exam.

Non-Commercial Driver’s License

To get a non-commercial driver’s license, you’ll go through an application process that’s similar to getting a standard driver’s license.

Schedule an appointment with your state’s DMV to take a written test, vision test, and driving test. This process takes less time than obtaining a commercial driver’s license.

Driver’s License Endorsement

A license endorsement is a quick and easy application process in relevant states. Typically, you’ll need to pay a small fee, fill out an application, and take a road and/or a written skills test.