RV Licensing Requirements: Everything You Need to Know by State

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Does Your RV Require a Special License?

If you’ve never driven an RV before, the task can seem pretty daunting and you’re probably wondering if you’re even qualified. The truth is, most people don’t realize that driving an RV is pretty easy.

Most of the time you don’t even need a special license. There are however some exceptions to that rule. In this guide, I will break down the RV licensing requirements in each state for you.

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A man with short brown hair and a beard is seated behind the wheel of an RV, driving during golden hour. He wears a white t-shirt and a seatbelt, with sunlight streaming through the windshield, creating a warm glow. The background reveals a glimpse of trees and a grassy area outside.

The Basics of RV Licensing

Driving an RV isn’t exactly like cruising around in your car—there are some specific rules you need to know. Licensing requirements for RVs vary depending on factors like weight, length, and even the type of RV. Let’s break it down so you’re clear on what’s required.

What Determines Licensing Requirements?

Several key factors decide whether you can operate your RV with a regular license or if you’ll need something more specialized. Here’s what you need to know:

Weight (GVWR and GCWR): The weight of an RV plays a huge role in determining licensing requirements. States use the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) to determine whether a special license is required. If your RV or the combined weight of your RV and towed vehicle exceeds 26,000 lbs., you may need a non-commercial Class A/B license or even a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Length Restrictions: Some states also factor in the length of your RV. Extra-long motorhomes, fifth wheels, or trailers might push you into the category of needing a special license. For example, California has specific rules for RVs over 40 feet in length.

Class Distinctions (Class A, B, and C RVs): RVs are categorized by size and features, which can also impact licensing:

Class A: These are the big boys—think luxury motorhomes and converted buses. With their hefty weight and length, they’re more likely to require a special license.

Class B: Smaller camper vans and compact rigs. These usually fall under a regular driver’s license unless heavily modified.
Class C: Mid-sized RVs with over-cab sleeping areas. Depending on the weight, these may or may not require additional licensing.

Types of Licenses You Might Need

Depending on your RV’s specifications and where you’re driving, you’ll fall into one of these licensing categories:

Regular Driver’s License: In most cases, you can drive RVs under 26,000 lbs. or within length limits using your standard license. This is the go-to option for most Class B and Class C RVs, as well as lightweight Class A rigs.
Non-Commercial Class A or B License: If your RV’s weight exceeds 26,000 lbs. or if you’re towing another vehicle that pushes you over that limit, some states require a non-commercial Class A or B license. These licenses are designed for personal use RVers, not commercial operators, and often involve a written test or road skills test.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): A CDL is generally reserved for those operating RVs for business purposes or extremely heavy rigs (over 26,000 lbs. combined with a tow). While most RVers won’t need this, states like California and Texas may require a CDL for certain setups or when air brakes are involved.

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State-by-State Licensing Requirements

RV licensing rules can vary from state to state, and they’re often tied to factors like weight, length, and whether the RV is for personal or commercial use. To make your life easier, here’s an alphabetical breakdown of what you need to know for each state.

Alabama: A regular driver’s license is required for most RVs. Exceptions for vehicles over 26,000 lbs. GVWR or towing over 10,000 lbs.

Alaska: A standard driver’s license suffices for personal use of RVs. A CDL is required if the RV is used for commercial purposes.

Arizona: A regular driver’s license covers most RVs. Exemptions: No special license is needed even for larger rigs unless used commercially.

California: A non-commercial Class B license is required for RVs over 26,000 lbs. or trailers over 10,000 lbs. Regular license sufficient for smaller RVs and trailers.

Colorado: A standard driver’s license is fine for most RVs. CDL is required if the combined weight of your RV and tow exceeds 26,001 lbs.

Connecticut: Regular license suffices for most RVs under 26,000 lbs. Larger RVs require a non-commercial Class B license.

Delaware: A regular driver’s license covers RVs under 26,000 lbs. Over that limit, a non-commercial Class A or B license may be required.

Florida: No special license is needed for personal-use RVs. CDL is required for commercial use or if the combined weight exceeds 26,001 lbs.

Georgia: Regular driver’s license sufficient for most RVs. Towing trailers over 10,000 lbs. may require a non-commercial Class A license.

Hawaii: A standard license is fine for all personal-use RVs. CDL is required for commercial RV operations or very large rigs.

Idaho: Regular license covers most RVs. Exceptions for combined weights exceeding 26,001 lbs.

Illinois: Non-commercial Class B license required for RVs between 16,000 and 26,000 lbs. CDL is needed for heavier RVs or those with air brakes.

Indiana: Regular license works for most RVs under 26,000 lbs. Non-commercial Class B is required for heavier vehicles.

Iowa: Regular driver’s license sufficient for most RVs. CDL is required for towing large trailers commercially.

Kansas: No special license is needed for personal-use RVs. CDL is required for combined weights over 26,001 lbs.

Kentucky: A standard license suffices for most RVs. For over 26,000 lbs., a non-commercial Class B license might be necessary.

Louisiana: A regular driver’s license covers most RVs. CDL is required for commercial use or combined weights exceeding 26,001 lbs.

Maine: Regular license sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs. Over that weight, a non-commercial Class B license may apply.

Maryland: Standard driver’s license works for most RVs. Heavier RVs might require a non-commercial Class B license.

Massachusetts: Regular driver’s license suffices for RVs under 26,000 lbs. Over that weight, CDL or non-commercial Class A/B may be required.

Michigan: A regular driver’s license is enough for most RVs. Heavier RVs might require non-commercial Class A/B.

Minnesota: Standard license works for RVs under 26,000 lbs. CDL is required for commercial use or heavier rigs.

Mississippi: A regular driver’s license is fine for most RVs. Over 26,001 lbs., you may need a non-commercial Class B.

Missouri: Standard license suffices for personal-use RVs. CDL is required for towing large vehicles or commercial use.

Montana: A regular driver’s license covers most RVs. Exceptions for RVs over 26,000 lbs. or commercial use.

Nebraska: Regular driver’s license sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs. A non-commercial Class A/B license is required for heavier RVs or large trailers.

Nevada:
Standard license covers most RVs.
CDL required for commercial use or combined weights exceeding 26,001 lbs.

New Hampshire:
A regular driver’s license works for most RVs.
No special requirements unless for commercial purposes or very large rigs.

New Jersey: Regular license sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs. A non-commercial Class B license is needed for RVs over this limit.

New Mexico: A regular driver’s license is fine for most RVs. CDL is required for combined weights over 26,001 lbs.

New York: Standard license works for RVs under 26,000 lbs. RVs exceeding this weight may require a non-commercial Class B license.

North Carolina: A regular driver’s license covers RVs under 26,000 lbs. CDL is required for RVs over 26,001 lbs. or certain configurations.

North Dakota: A standard license is sufficient for most RVs. CDL is required for commercial use or very large rigs.

Ohio: Regular driver’s license works for RVs under 26,000 lbs. A non-commercial Class B license is needed for heavier RVs.

Oklahoma: Standard license covers most RVs. CDL is required for combined weights exceeding 26,001 lbs.

Oregon: A regular driver’s license is fine for most RVs. CDL is required for commercial RVs or extremely heavy rigs.

Pennsylvania: Regular driver’s license sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs. Heavier RVs may require a non-commercial Class A/B license.

Rhode Island: A standard license works for most RVs. CDL is required for RVs over 26,001 lbs. or commercial use.

South Carolina: Regular driver’s license sufficient for most RVs. CDL is required for larger rigs or commercial use.

South Dakota: A standard license is fine for RVs under 26,000 lbs. Non-commercial Class A/B licenses may apply for heavier vehicles.

Tennessee: A regular driver’s license works for most RVs. CDL required for RVs exceeding 26,001 lbs. or commercial operations.

Texas: Non-commercial Class A/B license required for RVs over 26,000 lbs. Regular license suffices for smaller RVs and trailers.

Utah: A standard driver’s license is fine for most RVs. CDL is required for combined weights exceeding 26,001 lbs.

Vermont: Regular license sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs. CDL is needed for commercial use or larger rigs.

Virginia: A standard driver’s license covers most RVs. A non-commercial Class B license is required for RVs exceeding 26,000 lbs.

Washington: A regular driver’s license works for RVs under 26,000 lbs. CDL is required for heavier or commercial-use RVs.

West Virginia: A standard license is sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs. CDL is needed for larger rigs or commercial setups.

Wisconsin: A regular driver’s license is fine for most RVs. CDL is required for vehicles exceeding 26,001 lbs. or commercial rigs.

Wyoming: A standard driver’s license works for RVs under 26,000 lbs. CDL is required for heavier RVs or commercial purposes.

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Cross-State Travel: What You Need to Know

One of the perks of having your home on wheels is the freedom to do wherever you want. Usually that includes traveling across state lines with your RV, which means new regulations. Here’s what you need to keep in mind to stay compliant and avoid hiccups on the road.

Reciprocity Rules: Does Your Home State License Apply Everywhere?

In most cases, yes. In the US, states honor each other’s driver’s licenses, meaning your home state license is valid nationwide for personal RV use. Here are some of the common challenges RVers encounter:

Varying Laws: Licensing rules can differ by state, especially for weight and towing limits.

Air Brakes Confusion: Some states may enforce stricter rules for RVs with air brakes.

Passenger Restrictions: Laws about riding in towable RVs vary, so know what’s allowed in each state you pass through.

Tips for avoiding licensing confusion

Check your RV’s weight and length to see if it meets special license requirements.
Plan your route and research specific state rules to avoid surprises.
Carry documentation like your license, RV registration, and proof of insurance in case of questions from law enforcement.

How to Check Your State’s Specific Requirements

Getting clarity on your state’s RV licensing rules is easier than you think—if you know where to look. Follow these steps to make sure you’re road-ready.

Step-by-Step Guide to Researching Your State’s Rules

Visit Your State’s DMV Website: Search for RV licensing requirements or use keywords like “RV weight limits” and “special license.”
Contact Local Authorities: If the website is unclear, call or email your local DMV office for specifics.
Learn the Terminology: Understand terms like GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating), which are key in determining your licensing needs.

FAQ’s: Common Questions About RV Licensing

Do you need a CDL for a big motorhome?

Usually, no. A CDL is only required if your motorhome is over 26,001 lbs. and used commercially. For personal use, most states allow even large Class A motorhomes with a regular driver’s license or a non-commercial Class A/B license. Always confirm your state’s rules to avoid issues.

What happens if you don’t meet your state’s requirements?

Driving without the correct license can mean fines, insurance problems, or trip delays. Some states might try to prevent you from continuing your journey until you’re compliant. Check your DMV’s rules ahead of time to avoid hassles later.

Are there age restrictions for RV drivers?

Yes. Most states require drivers to be at least 18 years old, with some exceptions for larger motorhomes or rentals, which may require you to be 21 or older. Rental companies often require drivers to be at least 25 years old, so check before booking.

Can you drive an RV with a regular license?

Yes, you can drive an RV with a regular license in most cases, as long as it’s under 26,000 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Larger RVs or those used commercially may require a non-commercial Class A/B license or a CDL, depending on your state.

What is the largest motorhome you can drive with a car license?

The largest motorhome you can drive with a regular car license is typically one under 26,000 lbs. GVWR. Anything above this weight may require a non-commercial Class A/B license, depending on your state’s rules.

Do you need a CDL to drive an RV with air brakes?

Not necessarily. Air brakes alone don’t require a CDL; it depends on the RV’s weight and use. If the vehicle is over 26,001 lbs. or used commercially, a CDL may be required.

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Wrapping Up: RV Licensing and Registration Requirements

Whether it’s understanding weight limits, special license requirements, or reciprocity rules, a little preparation goes a long way in avoiding fines and keeping your adventure on track.

If you found this guide helpful, bookmark it or share it with your fellow RVers—it’s always good to have a reliable resource at your fingertips!

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