HDT registration

[Jme1990je]

Hi, new to the forum but full time RV’ers!

Looking into an HDT. We have found a 359 Peterbilt that is local to us and I have a few registration questions.

Who runs an HDT, Class 7 or 8, and has registered for personal use? I’m not talking about converting as an RV, but private use truck registration here in Texas.

Can I simply register it on regular tags at the DMV and go about my business? Private not for hire shouldn’t come under any CDL regs in my understanding.
I have a Class A CDL with med certificate anyway so I’m good to drive it and tow the camper.

The truck is single axle and already has an Rv 5th wheel hitch in place of a commercial hitch, and for us, it’s ready to go. It is purely registration and insurance that has me in a gray area. Everything I’ve read makes it sound simple, and some information is so conflicting.

Thanks in advance for any help

[Dale & Mark Bruss]

A lot of answers at hhrvresource.com

[glennwest]

How is it registered now? I would just transfer registration. You can insure it for private use. Insurance company doesn't care how it's registered.

[2upServant]

I have a single axle frieghtliner sport chassis, it is registered as a heavy duty pickup class 5. that keeps my weight limits good for pulling. I have a class a CDL exempt which is all that is required in Texas. Look at your Gross gvwr and figure out if you are over 26,001 pounds. I also carry commercial insurance on the truck itself, makes it about the same as the 1-ton pick up I had. Air brakes will require one of the CDL on your license. but it sounds like your covered unless your wife is driving. also check your insurance coverage to make sure you are covered for the wieght. Some insurance companies will fail to pay a claim if you weigh more than the limits of your insurance , or are over gross weight limits. States are getting more particular with trucks and fifth wheel RV registrations. Enjoy the 359 Peterbuilt does have a narrow cab. make sure you can pull the hood up to check engine compartment.

[L.C.Gray]

Originally Posted by 2upServant

Air brakes will require one of the CDL on your license.

Air Brakes do not require a CDL.

If you show up in a vehicle to test out for a class A or B regardless of commercial or not and the test vehicle is not equipped with air brakes you will be given an air brake restriction on your A or B license that will not allow you to operate an air brake equipped vehicle.

[Rob Woz]

In Texas you can register HDT as a Private Coach. Also is South Dakota you can register HDT as a Motorhome if it has a Refer, Bed, Micrcowave, and Portapotty.