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Thread: PA Class A/B non-commercial

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  1. #1
    rff105 Guest

    Default PA Class A/B non-commercial

    http://changingears.com/rv-sec-state-rv-license.shtml
    http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/driverLic..._classes.shtml

    I have been looking for any info I could find about big bus RVs and came across the above linked website. We have been driving 35’ and 40’ Vogues over 26,000 lbs since the 90s and have never had any problem with our class C licenses. We have always been asked by non coach owners “Do you need a CDL to drive that?” and the answer was always no, but I did not realize PA and some other states have non-commercial A & B licenses that are more or less specifically for RVs.

    What are your PA A vs. B vs. C experiences? Other then the application I found online, what is involved in getting you’re A/B (written test, driving test, with your coach)? Has anyone ever received a ticket in PA for driving with a C license? What could happen out of PA with a C license (state with no requirement, state with similar requirements)?

    Any insight will be helpful. I have a feeling our new H3 may draw more attention than our Vogues.

  2. #2
    Joe Cannarozzi Guest

    Default

    Hello and Good morning 105 interesting post.

    I have just learned 3 new things. My home state of Ill has a non-commercial A B and C also that it IS a requirement for our bus/toad. Looks like a new web site to browse too.

    I have a commercial license and would urge all who need any updated type of lisence to pursue it with-out fear. The most important thing when going is to make sure you have corresponding documents for both vehicles and both vehicles have ALL lights horn and reflectors, good brakes and tires. Often you may encounter a schtickler bureaucrat that will stop you from a behind the wheel test for these things. Also ALWAYS do a 360 degree walk around, or, pre-trip inspection before getting in the pilots seat, another bit they sometimes get on.

    Go down and pick up a booklet beforehand and do a little study and it will be a piece of cake.
    Last edited by Joe Cannarozzi; 10-13-2007 at 10:19 AM.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Apr 2006
    Location
    Battle Ground, WA
    Posts
    851

    Default

    Welcome aboard rff105. Your Changing Gears link pretty much says it all, it's a good resource for all of us, thanks for posting it. It has been our experience that State Police accept the licensing requirements of the state in which your license originates. That being said a lot can be learned by obtaining a Class A license. The testing requirements are nearly identical in every state and are not very difficult if you can find the time.

    Incidentally, you can easily add a signature to your posts by clicking on "quick links-edit signature". This will help us get to know you and help answer questions about your new coach.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
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    anytown
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    I hope the real driver among us agrees, but it is my opinion that even if it is not a requirement in your state to possess a CDL, that you make the effort and get one.

    First, it will help any driver to develop a better understanding of our air brake systems. Second, it will likely have a favorable impact on your insurance rates if you use a company like Interstate. Finally, by taking the written and driving tests you are proving to yourself and the world that you take the responsibility of driving one of these coaches seriously.

    We all have seen some folks that clearly should not even be driving a Class C and we need to set an example.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Jan 2007
    Location
    South Abington, PA...(outside Scranton)
    Posts
    68

    Default pa requires 26000 # plus motorcoaches to have class b license

    hi...shookie here outside scranton pennsylvania...i stopped to see pendot today...it requires all drivers of non commercial motorcoaches to have a class b license...first, go to pendot webside and download form to apply for a permit...this costs 5 dollars....then, study the air brake portion of the cdl material for the written test for the class b status...then take your 26000 plus pound missel and show the authorities you can properly navigate it....this test must be by appointment only and you must have a licensed class b driver or higher on board for the drivers test....remember, you only have a permit at this time...if all goes well, congrats, you can drive you coach...if not, simply continue to drive it without the b rating....i believe this is one of those things that is overlooked by the authorities...maybe, maybe not....well....cheers, shookie

  6. #6
    Join Date
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    I think we are in a time similar to when the CDL first became law. I think that was around 1991 or 1992. Some states, (and NY in particular because I lived there and knew about it) started enforcing the CDL requirements for motorhomes. At the time they would do a traffic stop and if the driver did not have the CDL the coach was effectively parked until a licensed driver was available to move it.

    There was a huge outcry and eventually it was clarified that RVs did not require a CDL in NY.

    Now, however the states are apparently recognizing the need for a driver license applicable to the big RVs and more states have specific laws relating to them. Your home state that issued your driver license is the state whose laws you must follow regardless of where your rig is licensed or where you live. If you require a CDL or non CDL equivalent and you do not have one when stopped, it is possible you will have your rig towed to a place for storage until you can get a licensed driver to move it for you.

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Apr 2006
    Location
    Lake Forest
    Posts
    2,486

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    Let me ask a clarifying question.

    In CA, you only need a class B license IF the motorhome is longer than 40 ft. 40 ft motorhomes (even over 26,000 lbs) are specifically ok to drive with a class C license.

    Given that, my question is: It is legal for me (a class C driver) to drive a 40 ft motorhome with CA tags through PA? I assume yes, based upon what I've read, but want to make sure.


    Ray

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