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CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Yahoo Message Number: 79511
Maybe it's because I was born "bass-ackwards" but I always seem to be the one going "the other way."
The same holds true with our RV purchase. We've never owned an RV, but really want to purchase or "last RV" first. So we're looking at a 45' DP. But in California, any coach between 40 ~ 45' requires a non-commercial Class B license. No big deal (I've driven 45' Ryder trucks for years), BUT they not only require a written test (passed!), but also a driving test.
Herein lies the quandary. I essentially have a "learner's permit" for a 40 ~ 45' coach...but don't currently own one. All RV rental locations for that size coach require you already have the license. All RV driving school require you provide your own coach. And the coach we're considering is 1,000 miles away (and I'm sure I'll have insurance issues if I don't have the correct license when picking it up).
Does anyone have a suggestion? I'm in Southern CA, and this one has me stumped!

Mark

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79512
A Class b license also applies to straight trucks over 26,000 GVW, passenger busses, school busses, trailers over a certain weight that varies state to state. Maybe a chruch bus, rented truck?

Mikee

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79513
In Texas the Class B non commercial test is given in two parts. First you take the written and if you pass, you are allowed to drive your coach from its storage place or residence to the DPS office to take the driving test.. I brought my cousin with me as he drives a Hook and Ladder truck for the fire department and is licensed. Why not stop by your local fire station or transit bus depot and make a deal with one of the guys to accompany you to take the test. Or ask if there is one of us in your area to help you out. But you are going to need to practice. I had to be able to back in a straight line, drive the coach between to objects 10 feet apart and 50 ft long. I was asked to park the coach against a curb with in 18" on the passenger side in addition to diving the coach 4 or 5 miles in a residential and commercial area. But no freeways. TWI 2004 42' Intrigue 11731

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79514
and I also was told that in California, a physical is required annually in order to maintain that class of license --- I found that out when I was looking at a 45 foot coach, and also found out that alot of parks wont take a coach over 40 (state/national) -- so I opted for 40. jan

06 Inspire DaVinci 51898

From: thomas w insall jr

To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 1:44 PM Subject: Re: [Country-Coach-Owners] CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

In Texas the Class B non commercial test is given in two parts. First you take the written and if you pass, you are allowed to drive your coach from its storage place or residence to the DPS office to take the driving test.. I brought my cousin with me as he drives a Hook and Ladder truck for the fire department and is licensed. Why not stop by your local fire station or transit bus depot and make a deal with one of the guys to accompany you to take the test. Or ask if there is one of us in your area to help you out. But you are going to need to practice. I had to be able to back in a straight line, drive the coach between to objects 10 feet apart and 50 ft long. I was asked to park the coach against a curb with in 18" on the passenger side in addition to diving the coach 4 or 5 miles in a residential and commercial area. But no freeways. TWI 2004 42' Intrigue 11731

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79517
That would be fine...if I already owned a coach! My challenge is having a coach to even take the test in!

Mark

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #5 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79518
You are correct! You have to submit a medical form which is the oddest collection of questions I've even seen (everything from eyesight to are you missing a leg or arm). I literally had it signed off by my eye doctor, since it didn't specify what kind of doctor could sign.
Note that CA requires a NEW medical certificate every TWO years - even though the license will not expire for 4 years (how the heck are they going to monitor/enforce that???)

Mark

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #6 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79520
The only way they enforce the medical cert in California that I know of is if you are stopped in a vehicle requiring a B license, the license becomes invalid if the medical cert is outdated.

Dan 06 Intrigue 11936

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #7 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79522
Quote
Quote from: marksperos"
Mark,

Life is short, screw the bureaucracy. Once you get the coach then you can worry about abiding by the rules. Enforcement if you ever get stopped would be improbable. Some are going to chime in with "what about the lawyers," I say screw them too. Only joking but I just don't believe we should get out of bed each morning worrying about what might happen. I know you don't want this cavalier answer but that's how I feel after my evening martini.
Lyle Wetherholt
04 Intrigue 11740
> Maybe it's because I was born "bass-ackwards" but I always seem to be the one going "the other way." > > The same holds true with our RV purchase. We've never owned an RV, bu

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #8 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79523
I like the way you think Lyle. My wife always says do it, then ask for forgiveness later if you have to. Time for a martini.
Kevin Burns

2000 Affinity #5865

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #9 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79524
it was just a whole lot simpler to get a 40 footer especially for just one person in the coach - me.... jan

06 Inspire 51898

From: Daniel DeWolf

To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 5:36 PM Subject: Re: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

The only way they enforce the medical cert in California that I know of is if you are stopped in a vehicle requiring a B license, the license becomes invalid if the medical cert is outdated.

Dan 06 Intrigue 11936

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #10 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79529
Mark, if there is a Star Trucking Co near you, talk to them. I live in Michigan and took my test, both written and driving for about 3-4 hundred$ at their facility. It's worth it, cause they provide the truck, and I believe I had 2 attempts at passing. Check it out. John

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #11 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79532
Lyle,

Whilst your answer is one, it hardly is worth considering, unless you can afford to lose your coach and pay for your 3rd party damage! The insurance company will say sorry pal your are not driving within the ability of your licence, therefore you do not have a licence to drive, therefore YOU ARE NOT INSURED! If money is not a problem go ahead!

Michael Slater
2008 Allure 31683

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #12 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79536
The Non Commercial is not a real problem, the DMV does not know much more about them either, You take the test on the Computer, about 5min, there is an Air Brake portion also, then make an appointment for the Road Test, I drove my Coach up to the Testing area and no one asked any questions, drove for about 15min. nothing unusual.
Now about the Medical exam, must be a state thing, my state does not require an exam for the Non Commercial, just the Commercial type license.
The Best part of the Up graded license is that the Insurance Co.(mine anyway) will give you a discount for having the License. My discount was 55.00 yr.
Marvin, 07 Allure, #31459

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #13 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79542
I went to the Calif DMV web site and it says the following:

With a Noncommercial Class B License:
  • any vehicles under Class C
  • any housecar over 40' but not over 45', with endorsement
With a Basic Class C License:
  • a 2-axle vehicle with a GVWR of 26,000 lbs. or less
  • a 3-axle vehicle weighing 6,000 lbs. or less gross
  • a motorized scooter
  • any housecar 40' or less
If I understand the above...my CC is model 430 and classified as a 40'. I do not need to upgrade my Drivers License. Agree or disagree?

Dave

07 Country Coach Allure 430 #31495 12 Jeep GC Toad Mountains of So Cal
Dave & Jodi
2007 CC Allure 40’ Tag #31495
2012 Jeep GC
Big Bear Lake, Ca & Henderson, Nev

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #14 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79545
Dave - I believe you have it right, with one possible exception. I just spoke to someone here in the San Diego area that warned if stopped by the CHP, they will actually measure the coach, including a ladder or trailer hitch and mirrors. That probably puts many coaches sold as 40 footers slightly over. With that information I decided that if I wanted a coach of at least 40' then I might as well go for the 45' since I would technically need to get the license anyway! On the other hand, I've spoken to many Californians that have driven their 45 footers for years without the Class B. I don't want to do that for too long so will be getting that license soon.

Good luck! Gary 06 Intrigue 12068

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #15 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79546
In Texas, where I am licensed, the rules are in conformance with national guidelines. Hence, I needed a class B, noncommercial license to be properly licensed to drive my 42' Magna. Not having the correct license to drive a large motorhome can result in a costly traffic ticket and/or invalidation of your insurance. Why accept those risks. If in doubt, get the license and enjoy your travels.

Gary

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #16 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79554
Gary is this only in Ca, & Tx, I live in Florida and I am legal under Florida law. Do I have to stay out of those states that are doing this?

Charlie Zecman
2002 Magna
6162

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #17 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79559
Charlie, cannot speak for Florida, only for Texas. I do recall there are federal licensing guidelines for licenses and it seems not all states comply. As long as you are in compliance with your states requirements you should be ok. With that being said, if in California, for example, you might have to prove you are in compliance with Florida law. This could be a hassle.
Happy travels, Gary

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #18 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79564
Thanks Gary

I will stay out of CA for now.

Charlie Zecman
2002 Magna
6162

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #19 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79581
Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg? Posted by: "czecman@..."czecman@... czecman Date: Fri May 25, 2012 5:25 pm ((PDT)) Gary is this only in Ca, & Tx, I live in Florida and I am legal under Florida law. Do I have to stay out of those states that are doing this? ========================================================== My understanding is that California will accept another state's certification rules, even if out of conformity with its own. I believe this is also true for all the other states (the Commerce clause?), and I have even had this applied (albeit a long time ago) in Canada. There are several things that out-of-staters should know about California law, which may be applied to drivers from any state. First, the speed limit in California while towing is 55MPH. That is the reason one sees trucks operating a good deal more slowly here than in some adjoining states (we get away with about 62MPH). Second, all vehicles, while towing, are restricted to the right two lanes of any highway. Third, on two lane roads, vehicles with five or more vehicles behind them are required to use turnouts to allow passage of vehicles behind, regardless of one's own speed. (Of course, that is also the only courteous course of action to take). Also in California, coaches longer than 40' are limited to Interstate highways, freeways, and the approach roads necessary to gain access to these roads. That does not include, for instance, Highways 120, 140 or 41 approaching Yosemite National Park. I am not an attorney, nor a public safety officer. These are things I have read in our vehicle code. I hope I have not misunderstood or misstated them. Ken Harrison 2004 Allure #31035

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #20 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79582
I have a Oregon standard drivers license. I carry the Oregon DMV hand book with my insurance and registerion showing that driving any motorhome for personal use requires no special license. Been driving our RV's for 40 years. Have never been stopped. If that day every comes, I have the needed law in print to show I'm legal.

mike 2008 allure

las vegas
portland

jackson, calif
 

Re: CA Class B Non-Comm'l License ~ Chicken & Egg?

Reply #21 –
Yahoo Message Number: 79615
Having driven a truck for many years a stright trick with air brakes I turned in my CDL. Having been laid off a job in early 2003 I decided to get my Florida CDL. Went to a Truck driving school to get my Class A with several endorsments. I dont drive but still hold my CDL I dropped Hazmet but still have Air Brakes. I am now licenced in Idaho and driving just the Motorhome. Folks go to your state and get the CDL Handbook as its free, Some states it may be on line. Also tell your ins. company what drivers lic. you have as its required. Your state of your lic. has rules. I would not want to be caught on a road with a rig heaver then 26k lbs. with out one. I have had many friends take the Non CDL Lic and pass. Trust me its eaiser then trucking school and thousands cheaper. Also they do background checks so better have a clean slate. Being lic. in Idaho I have never been asked for a medical card at least not yet. My two cents Ken. 99 Allure 30356