Looking for info on doing this in CA. I have been told by a couple of RV stores that towing behind a 5th wheel is legal with a noncommercial Class C license as long as the total length of the setup doesn't exceed 56ft. Anything over 56' would require a CDL which is way too much hassle.

Has anyone in California done this? I have been looking at numerous 5er toy haulers that could carry the Jeep (4500lbs), and am not finding anthing in my price range. So, I have found a very nice 24' 5er that meets my needs, and I should still be under the 56' rule.

Thanks,
Scotty

 

are you gonna put the jeep on the 5th wheel trailer. or tow behind a 5th wheel travel trailer??

 

Flat towing behind the 5th wheel.

 

 

>Looking for info on doing this in CA. I have been told by a
>couple of RV stores that towing behind a 5th wheel is legal
>with a noncommercial Class C license as long as the total
>length of the setup doesn't exceed 56ft. Anything over 56'
>would require a CDL which is way too much hassle.

Could you take the cdl test with your truck? I have wondered if I could do that set up. If I could take the test in my truck I might do it. My truck is 50.5' long with trailer. I just don't want to have to find someone with a semi to take my test in.


Justin
https://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gallery/displaythumbnail.php?&photoid=9313&.jpg
http://66.179.41.42/gen1/build/realgeneral.jpg

2002 F-350 SC LB 4X4 6SPD PSD. 3.73 gears. 2.5" leviling kit. K&N air filter. Rhino lined Bed. Prodigy trailer brake controler. 35x12.5x16.5 BFG A/T. 16.5x10 ultra wheels. pop up gooseneck hitch and firestone airbag spring helpers. Reese fifth wheel hitch for my new toy hauler. Superchips microtuner.

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 03-Dec-02 AT 12:38 PM (EST)]>Looking for info on doing this in CA. I have been told by a
>couple of RV stores that towing behind a 5th wheel is legal
>with a noncommercial Class C license as long as the total
>length of the setup doesn't exceed 56ft. Anything over 56'
>would require a CDL which is way too much hassle.
>
>Has anyone in California done this? I have been looking at
>numerous 5er toy haulers that could carry the Jeep
>(4500lbs), and am not finding anthing in my price range. So,
>I have found a very nice 24' 5er that meets my needs, and I
>should still be under the 56' rule.
>
>Thanks,
>Scotty


Take a look at the CA. DMV website.
WWW.dmv.ca.gov/dl/dl.htm
or contact: 1-800-777-0133
The Commercial Driver Handbook should explain the CDL exceptions.
You do not need or want a CDL unless you are a professional driver/for compensation. All traffic violations whether in your personal car or commercial vehicle go onto your CDL. It is much easier to have your CDL suspended or revoked than a regular drivers license. In California, the book states "only professional drivers will receive and keep a CDL." You may need what is called a "NON-COMMERCIAL Class A" drivers license for over 56 feet. Give the DMV a call at the number above for more information. Good luck.

 

You won't need a "commercial" driver's license, but a Class A. Yes you can take the Class A test in your truck. Many 15 passenger van families have to do this.

 

A CDL is required with a Doubles and Triples endorsment. So, the 56' rule is just a myth. I spoke with the Commercial Driver's Division of the DMV in Sacramento this week.

Three tests are required. Two written tests, and a driving test using the 5th wheel. You must also meet the medical exam requirements to be approved for the license as well as a $57 application fee.

A non-commercial Class A is not acceptable to do this.

Scotty

 

>A CDL is required with a Doubles and Triples endorsment. So,
>the 56' rule is just a myth. I spoke with the Commercial
>Driver's Division of the DMV in Sacramento this week.
>
>Three tests are required. Two written tests, and a driving
>test using the 5th wheel. You must also meet the medical
>exam requirements to be approved for the license as well as
>a $57 application fee.
>
>A non-commercial Class A is not acceptable to do this.
>
>Scotty


If you go this route understand that there are a lot of different rules and regulations that go along with a CDL.

You are considered legally intoxicated at 0.04 BAC with a CDL, not 0.08 BAC that a regular drivers license holder gets away with.

Two serious traffic violations within 3 years, you will loose your CDL for at least 60 days.

Three serious traffic violations within 3 years, you will loose your CDL for at 120 days.
Note: In October of 2002 new and more strict rules went into effect. Your personal vehicle traffic violations are now counted on your CDL, you do not have to be in a commercial motor vehicle any longer.

As far as the DOT medical goes, it is only good for 2 years if you are in good health and can be cut down to 3 and 6 month certificates if you have medical problems:
if you are a diabetic requiring insulin, you will not pass.
if you have high blood presure, 181/105, you will not pass.
The list goes on and on.

I just want you to understand that it is much, much more complex than you might imagine. Many of the guys/gals that have left the profession gave up their CDLs. They no longer wanted the hassels that go along with them. Good luck and Happy trails.