Campsite booked, true crime podcast queued up, snacks stashed—you’re ready for your next RV journey. Or maybe you’ve just started researching motorhomes. Whether you’ve got your keys in hand or you’re in the dream phase of admiring RVs online, you may be asking, do you need a special license for an RV?
The answer is “It depends.” This guide unpacks RV license requirements and factors that may affect them. With a little knowledge—and possibly a visit to the DMV—you can feel confident that you’re hitting the road legally.
As a driver, it might feel like you should need a special license for an RV. After all, even the smallest motorhome is much bigger than the average SUV. And handling an RV definitely requires more skill than a car—ask anyone who’s tried backing one into a tight space.
So it may surprise you to know that in many states, a regular driver’s license is the only RV license you need. There are a few caveats. But for the most part, you can start driving your RV without a special license if you’ve already passed a standard driver’s test.
Driving an RV is not always as straightforward as grabbing your wallet with your regular license and hitting the road. These factors will influence whether you need to take a detour for another license first.
Some states require a special license if your motorhome has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of over 26,000 pounds. After all, these super-sized RVs are more like semi-trucks than passenger vehicles, so they require more care and know-how to handle safely.
Certain states may require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) for heavier motorhomes, such as:
Some states have non-commercial RV licenses as a stepping stone between regular licenses and traditional CDLs. These options are usually more affordable and easier to get than a commercial license.
For instance, in New Mexico, drivers can get a Class E (CDL-exempt) license that allows them to operate recreational vehicles over 26,000 pounds—but not a semi truck. Similarly, Texas residents may qualify for a Class A license.
Towing weight matters in some states, too. For example, Nevada requires a J endorsement if your combined vehicle weight exceeds 10,000 pounds. That means it’s perfectly legal to drive an 8,000-pound Class B motorhome with a standard license. But you can’t legally attach a 4,000-pound trailer to the back without that extra designation.
Of course, states can change these rules at any time. Not sure if you need a license? Your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles has the answers.
Some states consider the length of the RV along with its weight. In California, you’ll need a noncommercial Class B license to drive a motorhome longer than 40 feet but less than 45 feet. If your RV is longer (very rare) or if you plan to tow something, you may need a CDL in some circumstances.
There are a number of places where you can drive an RV with only your run-of-the-mill driver’s license:
In many states, the RV class you choose will directly influence whether you need a special license. Here’s a quick breakdown.
Class B motorhomes—also known as “camper vans”—are built on the frames of commercial delivery vans. They’re made for outdoor adventures like camping and bouncing along backcountry desert roads.
Camper vans aren’t exactly sporty, but their short length (typically 16 to 27 feet) makes them somewhat nimble. And they’re lightweight. You can expect these vehicles to clock in at 8,000 to 14,500 pounds, depending on how much you pack inside.
With their small size (at least compared to bigger RVs), Class B vehicles usually fall safely outside the threshold for RV license requirements. They’re also the easiest motorhomes to drive, so they’re ideal for beginners—or people who don’t want the hassle of maneuvering a big rig around restaurant parking lots.
The next size up is Class C. These are your classic motorhome combos: a van cab in the front and an RV shell in the rear. When you think of famous brands like Winnebago, you’re probably picturing this class.
These RVs are more spacious than their Class B cousins. They’re typically between 22 and 35 feet long, which is still well below California’s 40-foot licensing requirement. Most Class Cs also weigh less than 15,000 pounds, so you won’t have to worry about applying for a commercial license in most states.
This final category is where it gets a little more complicated. RVs don’t follow the standard alphabetical order, so Class A is actually bigger than B or C.
Class A motorhomes are basically luxury buses—sometimes very luxurious. They often have expandable slides for even more space and can measure up to 45 feet long. However, most fall somewhere between 30 to 36 feet. If your state has RV license requirements based on length, make sure you consider that before buying—especially if you plan to tow your car or a trailer.
Weight is another major consideration. Some Class A motorhomes weigh over 30,000 pounds, which is above the RV licensing threshold in many states. But that doesn’t mean you should automatically cross heftier models off your list. All that extra space might be worth the temporary hassle of getting a motorhome license.
You’ve treated yourself to a big motorhome, and you need an extra license before you can hit the road. The specific licensing process varies by state but may involve:
It’s safe to assume that you won’t need a special license for a Class B RV. Driving these vehicles is basically the same as handling a delivery van, so you’re covered under a regular driver’s license. Many Class C motorhomes also fall into this category, especially on the smaller end.
For bulky Class A motorhomes, you may need an RV license or a special designation. It comes down to two factors:
But don’t let that scare you off. By passing a test or two, you could be ready to take your rig for a spin around your city—or an epic cross-country journey.
RVs are a gray area in the vehicle world—not cars, but not quite commercial vehicles, either. Make sure you understand the RV size and license requirements for your state before you pull out of your driveway.
Of course, an RV license isn’t the only thing you need to protect yourself. Be sure to invest in a warranty for extra peace of mind no matter where your wanderlust takes you.
At America’s RV Warranty, we offer coverage for every class of motorhome. Our plans can safeguard you from unexpected mechanical issues and fixes. Plus, we cover repairs at any licensed repair facility or mobile mechanic in Canada or the United States. Get your free quote today!
