If you're planning to drive an RV for the first time, you might have some questions. Do you need a special license to drive an RV? Does this answer change with the type of RV or where you’re planning to drive on your next adventure?
Whether you’ve just secured RV financing for bad credit in Ontario or landed on your perfect destination, here’s what you need to know about driving an RV.
Standard Driver's License Requirements in Each Canadian Province and Territory
In Canada, each province has its own regulations regarding driver's licenses for RVs.
Generally, if the RV or motorhome you want to drive is under a certain weight and length, you can hold a standard driver's license. The RV license specifics in some provinces vary as follows:
- Ontario: You can drive an RV of up to 11,000 kg with your standard Class G license.
- British Columbia: A Class 5 license allows you to drive an RV up to 4,600 kg. Heavier RVs need a Class 3.
- Alberta: A Class 5 license permits you to drive an RV up to 11,794 kg (if the RV does not have air brakes).
- Quebec: A Class 5 license should be sufficient for driving most RVs in Quebec. A gross vehicle weight over 4,500 kg needs additional endorsements.
Which RVs Can You Drive With a Standard Driver's License in Canada?
Do you need a special license to drive an RV for any type of recreational vehicle?
The type of RV you can drive with a standard driver's license depends on the vehicle’s weight and length. Here are the most common RV categories:
- Class B motorhomes: These camper vans are easy to maneuver. Typically, they weigh less than 4,536 kg.
- Class C motorhomes: While larger than Class B, these RVs are still drivable with a standard license in most provinces (if under 11,000 kg).
- Travel trailers: These trailer-RV combos depend on the combined weight of the trailer and tow vehicle being under the license limit.
Can You Drive Your RV in the United States?
A valid Canadian driver's license allows you to drive your RV countrywide, but many travellers are keen to do a little sightseeing across the way. Fortunately, most state DMVs in the United States recognize your Canadian driver's license due to reciprocity agreements.
In most cases, you can drive in the U.S. under the same conditions as you would in Canada. Still, some states have specific requirements for RV drivers or vehicle weights, so check the details of each state you plan to pass through.
Your Journey Starts Here With Capital Recreation
Do you need a special license to drive an RV? What about a Class C license? Most RVs under specific weight limits require a standard driver's license in Ontario and across Canada.
Call Capital Recreation at (833) 758-1244 to learn more about your RV options, when to buy an RV and more.