Community Forums

bill2011 · 02-21-2011, 12:25 PM

Hi,

We have just ordered a new Class A 43ft dp and plan to do a bit of travelling through Canada and US. We have been reading about some restrictions regarding licence requirements in certain States. I am wondering if this applies to us given that we are licenced in Canada. i.e. if we drive our motorhome through the United States do we have to worry about special licence requirements/resstrictions in any particular State or is it only if the motorhome is licenced in that particular State that these restrictions/requirements apply?

Any advice appreciated

j griff · 02-21-2011, 12:34 PM

bill,
I am certainly not an expert - however, my understanding is that if you and your vehicle are properly licensed in a Canadian Province, that will be acceptable in all US states.

Tom-NC · 02-21-2011, 12:56 PM

Hi,

There are no restrictions if you are all documented and have insurance from Canada. The only thing I would check is if you need a special card from your Insurance company to travel in the states. When we go to Canada we need a specisl card to carry while in Canada.

One thing I would do which is not really a requirement but may be in some states if you are towing a car make sure you have some type of braking on the car when traveling in Mountain states.

Enjoy your trip to the USA!

WOODYDEL · 02-21-2011, 01:36 PM

Foreign Visitors Driving in the U.S.: USA.gov

In case you miss the link about IDP for U.S. citizens.

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/cons...ts/alt108.shtm

Canadians do not need an IDP in the United States. If you are legal there, you are legal here.

wa8yxm · 02-21-2011, 03:13 PM

You do like to test my spelling ability don't you.
Nope, can't spell it.

There is an agreement that basically says if your license is the proper license in your home province, it's good here in the US too.

Likewise Mine is good if I come visit your home.

However if you have only a "Basic" license, and your province requires an "Enhanced" (Advanced?) license (higher class) then the fact that My home state does NOT require special license will do you no good..

The States respect the license requirements of the state or Province which ISSUED the license.

Traps90 · 02-21-2011, 03:57 PM

While your province may or may not require it, you may want to check into getting an airbrake endorsement on your license.

As mentioned you'll be legal to drive, however my understanding is, if traveling in a state or province that requires supplemental braking on the toad, it is required to travel in that state or province even if your home state or province doesn;t require it.

Trap

**NLOVNIT** · 02-21-2011, 04:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wa8yxm

You do like to test my spelling ability don't you.
Nope, can't spell it.

There is an agreement that basically says if your license is the proper license in your home province, it's good here in the US too.

I think the word you're looking for is reciprocity.

Lori-

bill2011 · 02-22-2011, 04:48 AM

Thanks to all. As usual a wealth of invaluable knowledge comes from this Forum. We do plan to use a toad and will have a proper braking and lights system installed. Also we will ensure we are in compliance with our Provincial regulations. All this information has put our minds at ease somewhat.

Many thanks,

Bill

terapin-bear · 02-22-2011, 06:58 AM

In Ontario, you will likely need an air brake (z endorsement) and a class D licence, but I'm not sure if you are from Ontario....

bill2011 · 02-23-2011, 05:09 AM

I'm a bit further East in Newfoundland. I need to check on requirements here but will ensure I am onside.

Bill

wa8yxm · 02-23-2011, 09:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NLOVNIT

I think the word you're looking for is reciprocity.

Lori-

Yup, that's it,, Thanks Lori

As I said. the basic concept is whatever is legal at home license wise is legal in all states and Provinces.

As for the twoed brakes... That's another matter, That is hardware not license.

However there is another set of laws.. The laws of Physics (Nature) and they require you have all-wheel breaking if you need to stop fast.. this means a towed braking system is a must... No matter what the "Book Law" says.