Community Forums

Buly · 05-31-2016, 03:23 PM

I tried for a while to get the info on the net, but no luck.
We are planning on Class A diesel pusher around 40-45'. I know some states require B license. All I can find is trucking schools with $1500-2000 fees.
I was wandering if I can get the written on my own, and than hire instructor and do the practical training in the coach and take the test in it?
Hoping someone has a better idea or experience with this issue?
I'm in central FL south of Daytona.
Thanks

cwsqbm · 05-31-2016, 03:35 PM

A motorhome for personal use does not need a CDL in any state. In some states, like TX, they require NON-CDL class B, but that only applies to be TX residents not visitors. FL is not one of them, but I'll let FL residents correct me if I'm wrong.

srx-6 · 05-31-2016, 03:51 PM

If you are a Florida resident your regular drivers license is all you need. Any training you can get would always be beneficial

Buly · 05-31-2016, 03:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cwsqbm

A motorhome for personal use does not need a CDL in any state. In some states, like TX, they require NON-CDL class B, but that only applies to be TX residents not visitors. FL is not one of them, but I'll let FL residents correct me if I'm wrong.

That what I was looking for: NON CDL class B. How do you go about getting one?

srx-6 · 05-31-2016, 04:41 PM

I would check the Florida DMV website but, seeing how Florida only requires a class E license for all vehicles (other than Commercial and Motorcycle) I would think they will not issue a Non CDL.

http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us/ddl/dlclass.html

Sweetbriar · 05-31-2016, 04:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Buly

That what I was looking for: NON CDL class B. How do you go about getting one?

Move to a state that issues such.

Florida does not issue NON CDL class B Licenses. There are only about a dozen states that require a license endorsement to operate an RV. Your Florida license will be valid regardless of where you might be traveling and what the state you are visiting may require of its residences.

If you're looking for general RV driver training there are several places around Florida. I believe Lazy Days has lessons as a starting point. Do an internet search for "RV Driving Schools in Florida".

Buly · 05-31-2016, 04:45 PM

Thanks. I was more concerned about some small stupid thing invalidating my insurance if I need it.

docj · 05-31-2016, 05:29 PM

I did get an actual CDL through a course at a local community college. Yes, I know that I didn't have to get an actual CDL but that's what the course was. My objective was to learn how to drive my MH safely; the legal aspects were secondary.

I know of a number of community colleges around the country that have CDL Class A courses; most of them give Class B courses occasionally. You might want to check with colleges in your area.

WFDolde · 05-31-2016, 05:49 PM

The Texas Tiffin dealer could not answer this question when I bought my new Tiffin Phaeton 40 QBH. I was concerned about what license was needed to be legal.
Texas requires a class B license when the vehicle weight is over 26,000 pounds. The tow vehicle can not exceed 10,000 pounds. If it does then you would need a class A license.
The written test was 20 questions and a thirty to forty five minute driving test.
This is the same test as a CDL except it is exempt from medical physicals and the high price of a CDL license. The license is good for six years.

There can be test questions on the written test concerning air brakes.
The DMV officer did not seem to care about the fact that I had air brakes and did not ask me to demonstrate testing procedures or air brake components.

I did exactly what you are thinking of doing. Took the written on my own and had a professional trainer go over the ends and outs of driving a big bus. He went over some very important issues that I was not aware of. He covered swing out for my coach and other major issues on large motorhome. Based on my experience the course was well worth the time and money.

I hope this information helps.
2016 Tiffin Phaeton 40QBH Blue Ox Tow Bar/SMI Duo.

bill06447 · 05-31-2016, 07:14 PM

I got a Class B CDL about 15 years ago through a local trucker school. Spent two weekends there and took the test on campus with their truck (the DMV inspectors come to the school) my net cost was zero as I was able to use one of the federal financial aid tax credit grants. Now I get a discount of around $50 a year on my RV insurance because I have a CDL. Win-win for me...

NevadaNick · 05-31-2016, 07:39 PM

I have a class A cdl. I read the book,mwent and took the test and scheduled a drive test and took it with a pickup and trailer that was over 10k gvwr. I have a air brake restriction as i didnt have anything to take the test with and its a non issue with motorhome. I also have doubles and triples endorsement which is just a written test.

FlyingDiver · 05-31-2016, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Buly

Thanks. I was more concerned about some small stupid thing invalidating my insurance if I need it.

You don't need a special license of any kind if you have a Florida license.

Personally, I think it's stupid to let someone drive a 50,000lb, 45' vehicle with not even a skills test, but it's not up to me.

I was a Texas resident before Florida. I got the Class B license required there.

moechester · 06-01-2016, 10:32 AM

WFDolde. You stated the Texas Class B is good for 6 years?? I recently got my Texas Class B non CDL. I did not see anywhere that a Texas non CDL class B has a term limit? Other than your license expiring and needing a renewal please explain?

Scottybdivin · 06-01-2016, 10:50 AM

Took the driving test in my Chevy 3500 and 5th wheel. Now my Class A is good for anything non-commercial. There are no air brakes restrictions on non CDL's in Texas.