Air Brakes + Class A or B License in Cali??

Shawn 357 · 11-08-2009, 07:31 PM

So I was talking to a buddy tonight who was saying that if you have a vehicle equipped with air brakes you need to have a non commercial class A or B license. He was saying that the laws have recently changed and also impacted fifth wheel trailers over a certain GVW. I am concerned about this because we use a motor home with air brakes to tow the race cars to the track and it would definitely put a damper on the weekend if we got a ticket for something we didn't even know about. I tried looking at the DMV site but the info I found was a little vague about what license you would need if you are towing two cars with a vehicle that has air brakes. Anybody know about this? Please don't make me go to the DMV

Thanks,
Shawn

asphaltgambler · 11-09-2009, 06:02 AM

Shawn - each state is different - you should be able to check online for specs. I have a CDL and never heard of a "non-commercial with air brakes" You can have a CDL with or w/o air-brake cert in Va

Laneco · 11-09-2009, 06:13 AM

There are several states that require large vehicles pulling large trailers to have the driver obtain a non-commercial CDL.

California is one. Nevada is another.

The issue is not whether it has air brakes, but rather the size. If the vehicle or combination of vehicles are a size that would require a non-commercial CDL, AND the vehicle has air brakes, then the non-commercial CDL driver must pass the air brake written test and during their pre-trip exam portion of the behind the wheel test, may need to verify knowledge of the air brake system.

This is the requirement for the non-commercial Class A:
Recreational Vehicles and Trailers-Noncommercial Class A License Requirements

This is your list of pre-trip items. Be advised that if your vehicle has inoperative lights or any type of safety defect, you will FAIL before you start the behind the wheel portion:
Recreational Vehicles and Trailers-Pre-Trip Inspection for Noncommercial Class A License

Additionally, if you operate a 9-15 passenger van in commerce, you must obtain a CDL in California. This item is very new...

angela

Shawn 357 · 11-09-2009, 08:00 AM

Thanks for the information. I guess I'm gonna be at the DMV this week.
Thank you,
Shawn

glewis80SC · glewis80SC's Garage

Shawn,
Get the commercial handbook and study the air brake portion well. The DMV is very strick about the test.
Know the proper cut in and our of your specific vehicle, if you miss ANY portion of the test they fail you.
I don't know where you live but DO NOT go to the Fullerton office to test they are known for failing people on anything they can.

Laneco · 11-09-2009, 08:53 AM

No problem, Shawn. Also FYI, California has begun enforcing the safety chain rules. These apply to any bumper-towed type trailer (in other words, everything but a 5th wheel).

Need 2 chains or cables and they must be positioned to 'catch' the trailer tongue if the trailer disconnects. Most people cross them beneath the tongue to meet this requirement.

Not only is this the way it should be done for safety sake, but if you show up for your behind the wheel test and it's done improperly you can be failed on site.

angela

Shawn 357 · 11-09-2009, 12:57 PM

I appreciate all of the info! I guess I'm going to have to start studying the handbook. I was very close to having to get a commercial class A about seven years ago so I am somewhat familiar with the handbook (that I am sure has been superceded by a new one).
Thanks again,
Shawn