CLASS A C.D.L WHY YOU NEED A CDL AND HOW TO GET YOUR CDL

[@dradden1263]

I did my 34 hr reset in a TA once. For the heck of it, for 2 whole days I counted the trucks to that parked for the night and how many drivers actually did a pretrip before to they drove away, in the morning. During the 2 nights I counted 135 trucks , I could see from where I was. At the end of the ,2 days I counted only 6 drivers actually did a pretrip before driving off. Those were mega carrier drivers.

[@brandonspeed3142]

I'm in TN, I haul a 32' ironbull gooseneck behind my F350 srw. Typically hauling either my Kubota SVL 90-2, the L6060 or hay. I have several properties and operate as a farm owner, giving me exemption from CDL requirements, I could technically haul as much weight as I desired. I've even been told that highway patrol has a strict policy from the high brass to "not mess with farmers" I am however, looking at going ahead and getting my CDL. If nothing else just to CMA. Thank you for the video Sam, keep them up!

[@sheepdawg6946]

I'm a retired cop from CA and I was told the reason you do not need a CDL for a recreational vehicle being towed was because the AARP is a powerful lobby group and all those retired old people would not be able to travel the country. Some of those travel trailers being towed by complete rookies is very scary for sure. Great explanation. I learned a lot and learned that I need a CDL based on "Ratings".

[@gunrightsfan]

As a class A holder my self for over 20 years you did a nice job explaining it. Nice video dude 👍

[@VBELTandSON]

thank you! was nervous about this video. feels good getting comments like yours! thank you glad the video worked out good!

[@mikeo5523]

In Missouri straight from the CDL manual Page 14-3 Exceptions for CDL, • Any person driving or pulling a recreational vehicle for personal use. • Any person driving for personal use, a commercial motor vehicle while transporting personal property, such as household goods of his/her own or another.

[@gradywray5391]

I think the reason you don't need a CDL for most travel trailers is because it is recreation and not a business thing. If the government knows your making money off of it they want a piece of that pie. lol

[@TERRORoftheLORD]

Not just the government....if anyone knows you're making money they want a piece of it! But Especially the government!

[@VBELTandSON]

that's very true hah

[@theeanonymousk7172]

You do not need a cdl to transport travel trailers. its literally a weight thing. is your truck over 10,001 lb or your total weight over all over 26,001 lb. simple Just because your vehicle is a commercial vehicle (used for business) does not mean you HAVE to have a CDL (commercial Drivers Licenses). You would still however need your DOT number and an Elog now. however the elog im and outdated on.

[@jefffroman7044]

Some states allow a Non-Commercial Class A licensee to tow a camper > 10,000 pounds

[@torfhinn]

You may need an exempt Class A and not a CDL Class A for RVs so be careful with how you phrase and how you think about towing.

[@billmikebill]

I bought a 2018 3500 with a Asin 4:10 Longhorn. Bought it to pull a 24,000 lb fifth wheel. You proved to me I have nothing to worry about. I will add the air bags. Enjoyed this video. Thank you.

[@VBELTandSON]

bill TPLL congrats! 24k is right is the sweet spot for theses trucks! I just added air bags from Pacbrake super easy install.

[@oby-1607]

Wanna-be truckers have no CDL. A pre-trip is an absolute mandatory for any truck large or small pulling a load on a public roadway. 18 wheels and air brakes, proper sleeper, haz-mat ticket, electronic log, is the start to be a trucker. A real trucker. Gave you a like for all the points you made.

[@VBELTandSON]

I could care less about earning the title "trucker" its just a job. my channel aims at logging and equipment transport from job to job. cdl is completely required for what I do and its nice to have all the air brakes stuff aswell for driving the logging trucks. what we do is sweet enough we don't need to have a sleeper and tractors and logs don't need the hazmat sticker. thank you for the thumbs up appreciate it!!! happy trucking safe travels

[@acdii]

Good explanation. One thing to point out, the 26,001 Single/Combo, and the 10,000 GVWR trailer are actually federal requirements to be followed by all states. Also, technically, the 3500 towing the 9800 trailer requires a Class B CDL. Thats the one that can get a person in trouble. That one comes down to WHAT you are hauling, not how much it weighs. If you are towing your personal car on said truck and trailer from one state to another, or anywhere else, no CDL required. Now the sticky part. If you are towing it to car shows for prize money, no CDL required, BUT you do need to have DOT numbers since it is considered a Commercial transport. Where the CDL IS required is if you are hauling a piece of equipment that makes money from a job site to a job site, that is where a Class B CDL is required. This varies a bit state to state, but federally fully enforceable under FMCSA. Understanding both the Federal CDL requirements, AND Federal DOT requirements will keep you out of trouble across the country. Got my Class A back in 1988!

[@arthurbolton8477]

Hi I would am in England and we have similar strict trailer towing rules no where near what you are allowed to tow with a pick-up truck max 3.5 ton. But the reason to comment it was so nice to hear you explain the rules and weights. Because there is a youtube channel I watch some time and this kid lives over the border way up north and like you say I don't know the local rules but he is taking the piss and putting other road users at risk by seriously overloading his truck . So keep up the good work great channel.

[@frankdom19]

Great informative video sir! Im thinking on hotshot driving in the future. So I'm here watching videos on all this legal and do's and don'ts of the business. Well explained. Thanks much!

[@vernanderson7739]

I spent $3k and went through truck driving school for 5 full weeks, during which I was continually yelled at and treated like shit. Graduated with my CDL, got a job with Swift driving heavy haul (GVWR 105,500 lbs) for two LONG years, during which I was continually yelled at and treated like shit by my manager, customers, and other divers. When I quit I happily gave up my CDL and never looked back. I never wish to ever do any of that or have anything to do with the trucking industry ever again. If you're required to tow or haul anything, beware that every cop within 50 miles will be gunning for you and that you better have a large nest egg stuck aside to pay all the fines and tickets they'll give you for anything and everything under the sun.

[@VBELTandSON]

gosh dang that's not that much fun. they cant make anything easy cuase when It was easy everyone had to cross the line and mess it up. I run within a 50 mile area hardly ever branch out. I tow 1 or 2 times a week

[@scefllc4676]

Never get a cdl waste of time cheaper to put the truck and trailer in a farm company and file a new company I have 9 trucks and 14 trailers all with covered farm exempt plates they can’t do a thing don’t pay the fines or pay for employees to get a cdl

[@robwalters9695]

I know alot of states offer non commercial CLASS A,B,C now as well, I know when I get my Texas license I will most likely go with the Non commercial Class A and have not for hire on my trailer. Good video and explanation

[@bryanmontgomery4050]

Only for farm use in Texas

[@michaelhungate7309]

Great video and great job of explaining everything. I learned a lot in this video.

[@ericl5973]

The 10k trailer GVWR in CA is a killer. I want to get a gooseneck for maneuverability but most are rated over 10k. I would rather put a truck camper on a gooseneck trailer than just have an RV for the flexibility and form factor, but I don't think that would fall under the RV weight exemptions.

[@chriskriwer4424]

Why can’t you just derate the GVWR to the amount that you would need for the camper on the trailer?

[@gregoryj.m.8985]

It all goes by the trailer manufacturer and what's on the trailers data plate.

[@evanch123456]

Colorado has an o restriction. In Colorado if you took this setup to test in you would leave with a class a with an o restriction. Meaning you did not take the test in a conventional tractor trailer with a fith wheel.

[@UsedEveryDay]

I'm a guilty outlaw that tows without my CDL. My wife has been on my case many times about it and I need to get it. But in Idaho (same rules by the way) I have to supply the truck to take the test in. That's been my biggest hangup on getting it. My setup is an '04 F250 rated at 14k and registered to 26k and a 20' goosneck with two 7K axels. It has a rating of 14k also. Rating of truck and trailer combined is 28K. Now here is where It gets sketchy and many have said and will say I shouldn't tow this setup with an F250 (and they're probably correct). F250 as equipped weighs 8200 lbs Trailer weight 3800lbs S300 bobcat 8000 lbs (ish) Backhoe attachment 1800 lbs Forks 300 lbs (guessing) Extra bucket 450lbs (guessing) Plus an extra 100 lbs for chains and binders (don't forget this people!) My total is = 25,250lbs. And I've had many times, exceeded those numbers because I've added more gear or stuff to the load to reduce the number of trips to a jobsite. And the trailer wich is rated at 14k should only be able to haul 10,200 lbs. After the weights of the trailer itself is deducted. So I'm allready pushing the limits of the trailer and by far exceeding the rating of the truck. I would never put anyone behind the wheel of this setup unless I knew they were competent and very experienced pulling trailers with heavy loads. As a caveat I've been pulling trailers since I was a teenager and I've been behind the wheel with multiple big rigs. I know how to handle a truck and a trailer with complete confidence. FYI, I worked for a company that had a fleet of '08 Ram 5500's loved those trucks! But a really want a 4th Gen Ram 3500. That will be my next truck!

[@UsedEveryDay]

Update: my numbers in my post above are wrong. Your video got me thinking and I had to check. The tag on the door jamb of my truck say Gross Vehicle Wight (GVW) is 8800 lbs. Specs I found online says my truck has a max rated tow capacity of 13,700lbs And a max Cross Combined Weight Rating (GVWR) of 20,000lbs.

[@VBELTandSON]

yea its easy to become an outlaw with a simple dump trailer. weight adds up quick with every little thing you add for the job. better safe to get cdl always but I got lucky with my teacher. he made it easy. and a new ram 3500 will handle your trailer loaded down with out a problem, so surprised how the new trucks tow! tows awesome

[@moblack5883]

@@UsedEveryDay I was about to check you asap on that F250 GVWR because I drive a 2011 F250 and mine is 10k and I know back in the day the GVW on trucks were lower. Just like a dually back in the day was only 10k GVWR. I was going to say no way is it 14k for a SRW. Heck a modern dually is rated at 14k and some change. Also you have to deduct your tongue rating. You're probably at the max at what that truck can handle.

[@UsedEveryDay]

@@moblack5883 I figured someone was going to check me which is why I decided to check myself. As far as being at the max the truck can handle, I,m sure I've exceeded that on numerous occasions. That comes from the back country/farm boy mentality where no one cares what the truck/trailer is rated for but only what it's capable (and its driver) of. I've proven with almost every truck I've ever owned or driven, they are capable of way more than what they're rated for. I'm not saying it makes it right its just reality. And I would never put someone without the knowledge and experience behind the wheel of an overloaded vehicle. It takes some intelligence and a thorough understanding of the physics involved to handle it properly and safely.

[@williamstringham6065]

Great information. NM and Texas has an exemption where you can tow for personal use over 26,001 pounds. It’s a different class on your license but covers those that wants to tow RVs and such.

[@eddmccarter8413]

I enjoy your videos they helped me decide on the diamond c . Hope to have it in the next 3 weeks. I haul farm equipment and light construction equipment. Most of my loads exceed 26,000 and I've got air brakes so absolutely must have a CDL. Tennessee

[@79Z28Hellion]

Non Commercial Class A license is another option as well when you are “Not For Hire” and not doing anything with it pertaining to making money. (Ex. Towing a car/truck you bought to your house.) Your absolutely right though. Only way to dodge it is to get a trailer that’s rated for 9999. Very good video.

[@Hhhhhhhh-p5y]

I am thinking about getting my CDL in Colorado. This video has backed that and will now get my CDL! Thanks man!

[@DocRevo]

I never tow, so in a service truck a medical card is all I need for the other factor that a lot of guys get snagged on: That is, commercial use and crossing state lines. Over 10K GVW crossing into another state becomes a DOT issue....I got "enlightened" with a ticket at a Navy base I was checking through security to do some work there. A week later, one my guys got the same thing at a scale house - he drove past it thinking it was only for "big trucks" and they chased him down and pulled him over. Gave him a ticket for no medical certification even though the truck was 14K GVW.

[@leonardrice2830]

Hey, 2018 RAM 3500 Tradesman G56 here.🖐 Absolutely correct & well presented!👍 When I got my truck, I had stars in my eyes & went shopping for a dually tandem gooseneck trailer. Yeeee-haw!😜 Then reality hit as I did research.🤔 Without a CDL, had to cool it and got a 22' gooseneck car hauler rated at 14k lbs GVWR. That way my truck & trailer GCVWR doesn't exceed the 26k lb limit for a driver w/o CDL.🙄 (According to Kentucky regulation if I'm reading it right.)

[@VBELTandSON]

yea that cdl business is a downer when you don't have one lol

[@bags4930]

Hey, I'm in the Bluegrass. Where are you located? I'm in Boone County. NKY

[@leonardrice2830]

Jesse Battaglia Hey, Jesse. I'm over in Hardin County, KY.

[@bags4930]

@@leonardrice2830 I'm in Boone Co. SW corner in NKY. My wife is from Bardstown so I know where you are in general. E-Town area.

[@ronalves9118]

you are right go for it all. but in many states to drive a rig like yours you do not need the air brake endorsement. And when the trailer GVWR is over 10000 you need a CDL> Unless you are not making any money with your truck and/or trailer.

[@jerkyturkey007]

I got my cdl/a back in 1992, got a job delivering beer. I called a driving school and they wanted a couple grand, I asked of I could just take the test without the school, the guy laughed and said you'll never pass the testing. I obtained the book lb at from the state of Michigan, studied it, went in took the written test, passed it. The beer company loaned me one of their trucks for the road test, flunked the pre trip inspection, but he let me go home study the booklet, then take it the next day. I passed the pre trip and the road test. So it can be done without going through the truck drivers school.

[@wendygerrish4964]

New Horse Trailers over 10000 rating have those reflective silver/ red reflective tapes on the sides. To be on the safe side get a CDL type license. I used western truck school which cost 4 grand about 20 years ago. Your method of seeking out a local instructor way, way smarter. Moving horses even to show events can be considered commercial, so be aware.

[@carlosjoelgarcia3200]

Great Job with explanations and breaking it down. I appreciate your efforts and will look for a local coach to do the same.

[@BeeInnovative]

I have had a CDL for 14 years. I’m a beekeeper in Northern California. It’s amazing to me what people pull behind a pick up, with a standard license and stuff that is wayyyy too heavy for the vehicles. Beekeepers seam to not understand that bees are extremely heavy. And what’s worse is there weight can dramatically change.

[@mikecollins8241]

I looked into doing "hot shot" type trucking, lots of guys trying to say they don't need a CDL, BUT they all seem to miss the 10k trailer part, and if you stay under 10k you won't make any money, go over and you risk a big fine. I believe CDL laws are federally regulated, as many CDL vehicles go interstate... Many states have "intrastate CDL", where you are only allowed to drive in your home state. Also, having a CDL affects your every day/ personal driving as well, lower DUI limits, higher fines for speeding etc ;)

[@VBELTandSON]

Mike Collins yea ppl always want to argue the 10k rule. But to save myself from the argument ppl will bring I want them to check their area but unless you’re hauling gold under 10k and making you much money. And yea I won’t drive if I’ve even had one drink. Don’t want to risk losing the cdl. Not worth it

[@hphillips7425]

Good video. If I would have come across this earlier the question I asked you would have been answered. Glad to hear you are in Northern California the water is probably okay there. It is Southern California that has something in the water

[@boldtrail]

Navigating the maze to obtain the correct CDL has been a little frustrating. Your video is very helpful. What driving school did you use for your behind-the-wheel training?

[@DavidSmith-vo3nd]

Hi Sam!! Hahahaha Trees, lakes, and such in northern ca lol!! Great video and subject !! I used to have my CDL I'm retired now, Thank you Sam!!

[@VBELTandSON]

haha glad the video turned out good thanks for the support!

[@mannypuerta5086]

Good stuff. There’s a lot of folks in the RV arena towing big fifth wheels with inadequately rated pickups...and the CHP, in particular, is cracking down on them. I hate the busy-body weight police on the forums as much as the next guy, but legally speaking they usually have a point. Legality and capability aren’t necessarily the same, which is something the law, the lawyers and the insurance companies like to point out. In NV, we have a non-commercial Class J for the RV-types that covers the licensing requirement angle for heavy towing or big motorhomes. Kalifornia probably has something similar.

[@VBELTandSON]

everyone that tows smart can tow heavy but without a cdl its ignorant of the law and careless to not take steps to further understand the consequences of running without one. hope that sentence made sense haha but I get what you are saying ha

[@jessaphillips2846]

the thing about towing an RV with too small of a truck (for example using a 1/2 ton to pull a trailer just under its limit) is this: just because the truck is capable of doing it doesn't mean it's safe to do it on a regular basis. If I was buying an RV and going to use it often there is absolutely no way I'm going to have a truck with a tow rating barely higher than the weight of my trailer. You want some extra capacity left over 1) for the weight of anything you might buy while out on the road, and 2) the added security of driving a rig that is not maxed out. Even if it's not going to hurt the truck to tow that much weight doesn't mean it's going to be easy to drive especially if wind kicks up. Now that doesn't mean I'm going to tow a sub 10k lb travel trailer with a dually but I would rather err on the side of caution and go up one size truck from what the salesman or website or whoever says is recommended to tow the trailer.

[@russrockino-rr0864]

Your explanation was great. It seems pretty straight forward to me. I think my home state of Oregon is about the same. Great video

[@strokerace4765]

CDL Class B here in Georgia. Can drive vehicles over 26.001 pounds but am topped out at 10,000 pound trailer.

[@williamsanders2808]

If the truck and/or trailer does not have a data plate stating the rating, the Federal laws state that the person doing the inspection base their rating on the total combined weight rating of the tires on the vehicle.

[@jpowers5023]

We have about the same rules here in Tennessee except the 10,000 pound trailer weight. I have been looking into new trucks for awhile. I wanting a class 4 or 5 truck with a flat bed for the payload capacity. However if I put any of my trailers behind it I will need a CDL. Trailers at I can legally pull with my f150. So much for going with a safer truck I can use for everything. I am going to get my CDL when I can find a big rig to use. Good job on the video.

[@VBELTandSON]

yea really limited with a good size work truck. cdl is always a good thing to have. best of luck with your truck hunt

[@jettanthony4902]

In NJ, you do not need a CDL if your GVW is less than 26,001 per the DMV Website. Just depends on the state. In NJ you can even have a truck with air brakes, if the Gross Weight does not exceed 26,001 you dont need a CDL.

[@VBELTandSON]

Can’t do much if you’re less than 26k tho.

[@TheTsunamijuan]

Super useful info, thanks for making this video and sharing the info.

[@ronarnott1801]

I have my own truck and trailer. I want to get a gooseneck enclosed trailer and haul my own produce to sell out of state. The truck is a dually, 3500. The trailer will be 14000 GVWR. There seems to be a hole in the system. I don't need to know air brakes or other unique to 18 wheeler stuff. I don't need to worry about getting hired by someone else. So why the huge jump from class C to A with all the over training just to pull a 14500 trailer with a 10000 truck? I've already been pulling a 9900 trailer with the truck. It's not like an extra 4600 lbs is going to be that much more. Ok, so that was my rant.

[@otherbob23]

Last I checked (admittedly been a while) California -Class C upto 26000 drive vehicle towing upto 10000 Passenger cars, pick up trucks, uhaul trailers...... -Class B up to 80k vehicle tow upto 10000 (80k total weight without permits) Busses, big box trucks, usually airbrakes included here -Class A tow more than 10k 80k total weight limit Semis. Tractor trailer...... Endorsements...... Airbrakes, not really endorsement so much as removing restriction. Its not marked if you have it. Doubles/triples, for more than on trailer, doubles only in calif.... Hazmat, for chemicals.... Tanker, for hauling liquids in a tank, fuel, oil, water, whatever. Passenger, for hauling people in busses. Class a txp is fully endorsed. T for triple, x for hazmat + tanker, p for passenger, n if non hazmat tanker for water trucks. Commercial or non commercial for Classes c and a, and commercial b for bus drivers. Unless they changed it all.....

[@jesusmayoral2861]

I went to to state patrol office in WA st. And I asked the official about this rules because i was about to buy a trailer to tow my 10,000 pounds excavator. He explain me very simple Dont exceed my 26,000 pounds in conbine GVW in both truck + trailer. Then I bought 14000 p. GVWTrailer plus my 12000 p Gvw chevy truck make it work.. just perfect.

[@SithLordmatthew]

I'm a landscaper so my trailer needs are less than yours. I have a pair of ram 4500 crew cab dumps each has a rating of 16,000 pounds. And I tow 4 trailers 2 of them are 7000 pounds and 2 of them are 9,990 pounds and what you read here is why I am under the CDL requirements by 10 pounds on the heavy trailers and 3000 on my light trailers. I can't go heavier but I also don't need a CDL so I am very happy right where I am.

[@gilbertpascua9734]

Great and informative video! You have mentioned several important points about gross and combination weights but, more importantly stopping your equipment and overall SAFETY!! I have had my CDL since 1988. I dont drive for a living anymore but I do miss it. I do own a 17 Ram dually with a 68RFE transmission, the ASIN high out put engine would of been sweeter to haul my 44ft., 18,000 toy hauler but I'm retired military and a rv weekend warrior. I am looking forward to the 2020 3500 HD also. Great job posting informative and real world videos. outk@st#2

[@VBELTandSON]

thank you! im defiantly looking forward to the 2020 truck! seem to get better each round

[@tbzlogisticsllc.6671]

Great information and the use of the different trucks and trailers that you have there really explain it even further

[@deanlabbe9952]

I always get impressed hen I see a 75 year old guy or gal towing a 40 foot camper trailer with a 1/2 ton pickup with4 ply tires on it.

[@shawntrautwein8355]

Well done sir CDL holder myself and you did well on this video

[@TM-tg4yn]

Your “cdl skoo” was cheap, LoL!! Costs way more on the east coast, mine was $4200 which was cheap compared to the other schools nearby. Anyway, I agree 100% with all the points you covered. Nice vid. Hope it helps some of the guys out there who may need one and didn’t realize it. MA and CA seem to be running the same cdl playbook... Scary, LoL! Take care.

[@VBELTandSON]

jeez! I did good it seems like! I wouldn't go as far to say im road ready for 18 wheeler I didn't get much big rig driving experience as I would guess you did. but thank you!

[@JT-qf4it]

Most of the Commercial Rules are Federally written. I don't understand why they just don't have a "Trailer" endorsement to add to what ever license you have to be legal to tow a trailer with a weight rating over 10,000 lbs.

[@tycloud4601]

Thank you that does answer a lot of questions I believe the same rules are for Indiana also. I remember the 26,001 lb for the rv and truck so legally you should have your CDL. Thanks again

[@mikeclark1733]

state of vermont lets you take a class a test with out air brake endorsement.but you can still trailer as long as no air brakes and you can test with your own truck and trailer.

[@tylerboyle1652]

This is an awesome video, really got down to the meat and potatoes. Explained everything that i wish i knew and was explained to me before i towed a tiny home, good thing i didnt get pulled because that would have been a bad day for sure. Especially if the cali cops got me.

[@VBELTandSON]

thank you! weve all hauled some over the top stuff just cross fingers and roll out ha

[@benjaminfranklin71]

You can get a class A without air brakes and just use trucks that don’t have air brakes. As well. I did that before getting my air brakes because I didn’t have an air brake truck to use. I do recommend getting it all done at once

[@18twilliams]

I ran loads like that for yrs. nothing said! Now they hammer you for it. After I have a converted bus with RV tags it weights 29000lbs. hit 60 my Pancrase stopping working so now I have to do 4 shots of insulin per day! Can't get a CDL if you use insulin! So I'm an outlaw will pay the fine! I drive a ram 3500 4x4 dually and I got an aluminum dual axle trailer, play dumb! I have been to about every state never got caught!

[@MrChris76012]

Very cool thanks for sharing. I’ve been wondering if I should just get a CDL or not. Now I will for sure check into it.

[@justshakeyj8392]

@V-BELT and SON You need to teach a few other hot shot drivers on here a lesson or two, I'm waiting for the day when they get bent over by the dot just because I'm a class A holder and they advertise that you don't need a cdl when in fact their set up is illegal. Which burns my biscuits! I used to drive a semi and looked into hot shot trucking but quickly changed my mind when I found out that the back seat of a club cab truck is NOT a dot approved sleeper berth and you cannot legally claim off duty sleeping there!

[@tyrrellroach5872]

So in Iowa the combined gvwr needs to exceed 26001 for a combined vehicle the iow dot did not have the stipulation of a trailer exceeding 10 k. But once you have hazmat materials or multiple passengers your on the hook for a cdl

[@h.rivera4726]

Great video and explanation. I also have my CDL with doubles & triples. Same Regulations in Arizona as Cali. I do Heavy Haul with my 9 axle & 10 axle trailers. Be safe

[@VBELTandSON]

thanks and safe trucking!

[@VideosClassAct]

How did you find the guy that trained you in one day? The only schools I can find in Oregon take a MONTH and cost over $4,000! I live in a remote area and can't go to school where I would have to commute seven hours each way.

[@claytonwestbrook1330]

Great video and im wanting to go ahead and get my class A just havent done it yet but last i looked in the regs in Arizona not only is recreational vehicles exempt but if its for personal use and talked to dot have been told as long as its not gonna make me any money i can tow my backhoe or tractor or whatever. Its just the problem of getting an officer that believes you because here even if the hauling doesn't make you money if you do work with the equipment you are hauling then its considered commercial.

[@VBELTandSON]

yea exactly just not worth it. not to much trouble to get cdl compared to the head ache of being busted with out one. best of luck on getting your cdl happy hauling

[@libertyroads7342]

I'm planning to get my CDL just to tow a horse trailer. CDL licensing is federal, but the exemptions for RV and non-commercial is state regulated. Here in TX we can get a non-commercial CDL to tow RV's. The only difference - in TX - between commercial and non-commercial class A is the medical exam. So, why not just get the commercial just in case. By the way... I feel sorry for you with that 55MPH limit on the freeway in CA when towing.

[@shearerperformance4016]

In the state of Pennsylvania you can own a tractor and trailer as long as you are not using it for making money and you own it you don't need a CDL license to drive it as long as you own it

[@mikeheyd6428]

Great job explaining it to everyone. . I'd have to look at the dmv book again but I believe toy hauler/travel trailers over 15,000 or 15,500 gvwr still require a at minimum of a non commercial class A even though it's a recreational trailer. I have my cdl. I pull a 16,500 gvwr toy hauler and a 12,500 dump trailer.

[@VBELTandSON]

looks like a big trailer in your photo

[@michaelschettl9509]

In a lot of states where you would be leagle to drive a recreational vehicle without a CDL is allowed for vehicles up to 45 feet but over 45 feet the CDL is required.

[@sblsbl7600]

Ontario Canada requires a 6 week course costing 10k. I laughed at the Canadian numbers for the reference in kgs. I just read an article about it yesterday. I don't have a CDL or a in Canadian a Class A license.

[@krempalandscaping6576]

Thanks for the video. I’m in NY and taking my CDL test in my F350 in a couple weeks. When taking my skills test can I turn my body when backing my trailer or just use my mirrors? I’m comfortable with either just don’t want points taken off. Thanks for the help.

[@parmslandscapemanagementin2587]

In WI it is the same, however there are many people that say if the trailer weights less than 10,000lbs only the pull vehicle rating is used. What are your thoughts on this? The law you had printed in the video seems to suggest this might be a true statement. "Inclusive of a towed unit(s) WITH A GROSS WEIGHT RATING OR GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT OF MORE THAN 10,000lbs whichever is greater" Does this not mean that the trailer weight rating is only considered if it is rated at over 10,000lbs?

[@carlj3515]

Thanks for the share. Don’t forget the safety stuff,fire ext.triangles and such. Better to pay for CDL than be towed and impounded for out of class. I don’t think personal use would fly to much,better safe than sorry. Don’t forget random drug screen. For me,I try and do everything to keep out of the POPO mans site. Flat beder,was in your,Some what area last week . El Centro and Fontana.

[@Tyler_Robertson]

I don't have a CDL for my 2018 473hp Huffy Bicycle and I tow a 45ft flatbed with a 35ft dovetail behind it! never been pulled over! #outlaw #whatsaCDL #mustbeagangsterthang

[@deerslayinredneck1003]

In my state im having to get my class b for job but i can haul pretty much what want personally with a not for hire sticker. without a cdl but since im having to get my class b minus two rectrions that im going to get taken off as soon as i get the money for a physical and talking buddy into teaching me how to drive his stick shift dump truck and letting me use it to retake my driving test to get my automatic restriction off. Which helps me on getting other side jobs

[@mekosmowski]

Thanks. Some nice food for thought.

[@oldreliable303]

So.. my 65 f600 is good for 19,500lbs, and my trailer is good 14,000lbs. And i have no cdl, ive needed to get one for years. Hauling mostly steel for work, sometimes my forklift, back hoe, or tractor. And the f600 only comes out if im towing more than 10,000lbs for a long haul. Most of its done with my 94 f150.

[@mikecronk8786]

I have my class A CDL as I drive tri-axles and sometimes with a trailer. I personally have a 2003 Dodge 3500 (12,000 lbs) and a 36' fifth wheel camper (also 12,000 lbs rating). I've had my setup on a quarry scale and it weighs 20,100 lbs. I think anyone driving this type of setup should have a CDL.

[@matteilrich4190]

Great info can you do a video on having proper plates on your truck and trailer

[@scottphillips7323]

Great video sam!! Very informational!! Thanks!!

[@VBELTandSON]

thank you! glad you liked it!

[@Infidelskeptic]

I have a dually ram 3500 and plan on hauling a trailer over 10,000 lbs and at times total weight over 26.000 lbs. My question is what vehicle would I take the skills test in? My truck with a gooseneck trailer? What cdl would I need? Excuse my ignorance. Thanks.

[@mikeneuburger3989]

Properly mounted and secure, no bent broken or missing pieces

[@nocoolname32]

these crazy CA restriction vs north dakota. i can drive my 26K GVWR truck, pulling up to 10K GVWR trailer and not need a CDL, as long as i don't cross any state lines.

[@texgarcia1958]

California likes to make things complicated. But to clerify, air brakes and manual transmission are not endorsements. They are restrictions. There is a big difference. If you drive a class C combo you can have a manual transmission and air brakes without a CDL. However, you are restrictied from using them in a CDL application without having the restrictions removed. This differs from an endorsement in that if you operate a non CDL vehicle but meet the requirements for the endorsement you need to get the endorsement regardless. An example would we passenger or HME. You can be in a 12k gvwr vehicle but if you meet the criteria you will need a class C CDL with the endorsement. The other misconception is that you can't exceed 26k gcvwr without a CDL. This is incorrect. A class C non CDL can consist of a single vehicle not exceeding 26k gvwr and can tow upto 10k for a total of 36k gcvwr. In fact the combo can even have air brakes and still not need a CDL because it is a restriction not an endorsement. The last funky California thing is restriction 88. If you have a 10k pickup and tow a trailer with a 12k gvwr you need a class A CDL. But if you take the skills test with this combo you will get a restriction 88 because the combination is still under 26k combined. 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@kimobrien.]

Like most of the DMV little of the stuff they put you through makes any sense. I can operate a fire truck with my Q endorsement in Connecticut but not a TAXI. You need to pass a CDL medical exam to drive a Taxi but not a Firetruck. I owned a small trailer and when I ran the VIN number on the title it came back bad until I finally figured out that the put in an O Oh instead of a 0 a zero. An O is a invalid character in a VIN number.

[@fingersmcgee2762]

in michigan ,,,no cdl ,,, f350 single rear wheel n tow a 9900 trailer,, probly get my cdl this winter because u need a cdl to be in the big leagues

[@jefflangley5454]

You don’t have to have a air brake endorsement. But it’s an east test to pass so might as well

[@VBELTandSON]

I got it anyways for when I buy a semi

[@federicocarretero1202]

What’s up Man. This is actually off the topic you are in to the video but I got questions. You have your truck and trailer. When you apply for a MC DOT number do you have to have the equipment before you apply or after? I’m from Sac just heard you mentioned it. I also do have a CDL A just trying to get start something new by doing hot shotting. Thanks and appreciate the video.

[@VBELTandSON]

I think you need the equipment first. was a pain I ended up added to my dads MC ca number,

[@richardrice3137]

just watched a video about class A license and CDL. bottom line, if you use the equipment for profit, that is being paid to move the equipment, you will need a class A CDL. if you own the equipment and just moving it, you DO NOT need CDL. you will need class A if equipment GVWR exceeds 10,001 lbs, period! exemptions in some states include a motor home which makes NO sense at all.

[@workplaytv]

Good video buddy. I am Working on a similar one since all the comments in my scale video! Lol

[@VBELTandSON]

workplaytv yea I was worried this video would bring out the crap talkers and super truckers like your video did haha guess you kept them all;)

[@workplaytv]

V-BELT and SON Hahaha yeah I have a few but holy shit that video has gotten a ton of views but a lot of thumbs down 👎!

[@VBELTandSON]

workplaytv damn 90k!!! Hell ya but shoot wtf why like half dislikes wtf. It wasn’t a crappy video! Oh well got the views and the subs no time for KZbin bucks

[@workplaytv]

V-BELT and SON Yeah man it’s all people that think what I am doing isn’t safe or illegal. Put them in the passenger seat and they would feel great! Like you said supertruckers

[@VBELTandSON]

im going to make a sticker for you #notasupertrucker hah

[@ridgerunner6008]

Your a outlaw! so am i !!! You forgot to mention scales that 3500 is not allowed in the Statham 5500 is because of the flatbed am I correct?

[@underdogsciontc]

I work for cdot we need our cdls to promote and its good to have as well.

[@marcogomez8819]

Great video, very helpful

[@maivlis1120]

So does that mean if my truck GVWR is 14,000 and the trailer GVWR is 10,000..which is less than 26k..I don't need to have a cdl license right?

[@grizzlygamingGG]

Where you at in California? I'm moving to Pleasanton this month. They said no cdl needed for RVs.

[@Scott717]

With a 6 speed full Synchronized transmission, during the road test. Did you have to double clutch or could you shift it like a regular pickup transmission?

[@VBELTandSON]

Shifts like a regular pick up no issues

[@Ghost-jq9jz]

I’m going with an F-550 crewcab flatbed pulling a 17.360ib sealcoat tank with 3 7000ib axels will I be ok without an CDL?

[@_umpx_]

Who did you take your training through? I'd like to get some of our guys their Class A. I've been searching, but only finding the 4 week schools.

[@marxvadar2614]

Explained nice and clear. Sam do you need COMMERCIAL INSURANCE once you get CDL??

[@VBELTandSON]

Marx Vadar only on a commercial vehicle. Don’t need it on personal

[@ShaneBurrell1]

I think CA has a non-commercial Class A and B for RV folks. I have the NC version. Can drive anything non commercial / personal use without extra cost and don't have to keep a medical card.

[@VBELTandSON]

Shane Burrell yea that sounds about right. So many rules no matter what you’re doing

[@Mill72]

Yes, you can get a non-commericial A, B license here in California. I believe you take a road test with the truck and trailer that you plan on driving/towing.

[@ShaneBurrell1]

The 10K/26K rule of thumb is pretty straightforward or better yet what you said, if you have suspicion that you need it your prolly do. People get really upset over needing a class A or B to pull what they got. I just went and asked a trooper then the DMV in writing before I upgraded to a 1 ton. Simple and they were very cool about it, looking over my specs and telling me what I had to have to tow. Trailer/RV dealers and most truck dealers act like a Class C is all you need ever to make the sell. In NC at least they let me pull my 14K dump as long as I'm doing it for myself (personal use/hauling my stuff). So the Non-CDL was a great option for me. People around that have been driving for many years still don't have actual vs rated right. You did a great job describing it.

[@Mill72]

Also people here in California don’t realize that a fifth wheel or travel trailer between 10,000lb and 15,000lbs need a recreational license.

[@VBELTandSON]

even I didn't know that thank ya

[@ryanwheaton7834]

Texas doesn’t need any endorsement. Just a regular class A

[@chrisao1987]

That’s interesting cali doesn’t have a option to get a Class A with no air brakes. You just use your truck and trailer to take the test. They do do things differently.

[@VBELTandSON]

Weirdly enough Cali makes you get a real cdl with air brake truck then you’re good for everything g

[@2Years2Farm]

I just need to man up and get my CDL lol I’m 19 but I’m starting more in dirt work and have a dump truck rated at 27k gvwr let’s see what happens

[@gerlandkent6377]

dot told me that I don't need a cdl I've got a 1973, Ford F700 5spd 2spd rear AXLE 10ft Body 360 Dump trk Air Brakes weight of dump tri 10 thousand keeping my weight at 26001. = FARM USE 🙏

[@Alexanderbuilds2001]

There should be a different category of CDL for someone who wants to pull 12k trailer with a skid steer. You shouldn’t have to drive a tractor for the test if that is not the vehicle you’ll be using.

[@VBELTandSON]

I’ve heard in other states you can but I wanted the full a license anyway

[@Alexanderbuilds2001]

@@VBELTandSON that’s good to hear. I’ll have to look into it to see if Virginia is different.

[@VJButler]

Thanks for the video. How are you doing with the fires ?