So looking at a new trailer...how big?

[sea2summit]

I'm so confused now...thought I used to know the numbers for being under CDL but never heard of this 10k limit for the towed vehicle before.

Just so I'm not already illegal. If I have a 7k tow vehicle, a 5k trailer, with a 7.5k load my total weight is 19.5k so I am under the 26k threshold and okay? Or have I been driving illegally every time I move my tractor?

I'm very confused about the 10k limited for towed vehicles I guess is my issue and google isn't helping me at all.

 

[LD1]

I'm so confused now...thought I used to know the numbers for being under CDL but never heard of this 10k limit for the towed vehicle before.

Just so I'm not already illegal. If I have a 7k tow vehicle, a 5k trailer, with a 7.5k load my total weight is 19.5k so I am under the 26k threshold and okay? Or have I been driving illegally every time I move my tractor?

I'm very confused about the 10k limited for towed vehicles I guess is my issue and google isn't helping me at all.

First off.....are you actually commercial.

The C in CDL is for commercial. I dont know the laws in all states or how they are enforced....but often times personal use is exempt. Personal, Farming, RV's, etc.

Now regarding the Three CDL classes.....its NOT (I repeat) its NOT the weight of the vehicle. Rather its the weight RATING.

Look at your truck. Inside the door it should list the GVWR. Your trailer will also have a GVWR.

If the combination of those two RATINGS exceed 26k....then that is CDL.

The trailer being under or over 10k only makes a difference determining whether a class A or a class B is required.

Example.....if your have a 1-ton dually with a GVWR of 14k (even though the truck only weighs 8k) and a 14k trailer (even though you only load it to 9k)....the sum of the GVWR's exceed the 26k threshhold and a CDL is required. Since the trailer is over 10k (rating) that is a class A.

Example: if you drive a F450 truck with a 16.5k GVWR and hook it to a trailer rated at 9990 GVWR the sum still exceeds 26k....however since the trailer is rated under 10k....only a CDL class B is requried.

So quite simply, what is the GVWR of the truck and what is the GVWR of the trailer

 

[sea2summit]

So I do not have a CDL, poorly worded. Should have said non-cdl.

Okay so my GVWR on my truck is 10k and the trailer is 12k I'm good without a CDL unless I load the trailer up to 10,001# or have an exemption from my state, is that correct?

 

[Rancher Ed]

New York and California have their own special/additional rules, but I believe the following applies for all the other states including Georgia:

TERMS:
GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating - the maximum weight the vehicle can legally weigh; this number is found inside the driver door on the truck and somewhere on or near the tongue of the trailer.
GVW = Gross Vehicle Weight - the actual weight of the truck or trailer; if this exceeds the GVWR you can get a ticket for being over-loaded
GCWR = Gross Combined Weight Rating - the sum of the truck GVWR and the trailer GVWR

Actual weights have nothing to do with CDL requirements (obviously if you overload your truck or trailer [GVWR] there are other issues). In all cases, if your GCWR is ≤26,000 pounds, you do not need a CDL. If your GCWR is 26,001 or greater but your trailer is ≤10,000 pounds then you also do not need a CDL. EXAMPLE: F550 with GVWR=19,500 pounds pulling a trailer with GVWR=10,000 pounds exceeds the 26k number but because the trailer is less than 10,001 GVWR no CDL is needed.

In your case I assume your 7k tow vehicle has a GVWR of 9k to 10k and your trailer is likely a 14k GVWR since it weights 5k empty which gives you a GCWR of ~24k and no CDL is needed.

 

[sea2summit]

EXAMPLE: F550 with GVWR=19,500 pounds pulling a trailer with GVWR=10,000 pounds exceeds the 26k number but because the trailer is less than 10,001 GVWR no CDL is needed.

Okay, that makes more sense.

 

[Rancher Ed]

So I do not have a CDL, poorly worded. Should have said non-cdl.

Okay so my GVWR on my truck is 10k and the trailer is 12k I'm good without a CDL unless I load the trailer up to 10,001# or have an exemption from my state, is that correct?

Close, you can acutally load your trailer to its full rating of 12k as your GCWR is only 22k. With your 10k truck you could get a 16k gooseneck (two 8k axles) and load the trailer to its full 16k weight (as long as you do not overload your truck with tongue weight) and not need a CDL because your GCWR is exactly 26,000 pounds (requirement kicks in at 26,001).

CDL requirements will never be triggered by how much you load on your trailer. Either the trailer has a GVWR high enough that a CDL is required or it does not.

 

[jpolcyn]

First off.....are you actually commercial.

The C in CDL is for commercial. I dont know the laws in all states or how they are enforced....but often times personal use is exempt. Personal, Farming, RV's, etc.

Now regarding the Three CDL classes.....its NOT (I repeat) its NOT the weight of the vehicle. Rather its the weight RATING.

Look at your truck. Inside the door it should list the GVWR. Your trailer will also have a GVWR.

If the combination of those two RATINGS exceed 26k....then that is CDL.

The trailer being under or over 10k only makes a difference determining whether a class A or a class B is required.

Example.....if your have a 1-ton dually with a GVWR of 14k (even though the truck only weighs 8k) and a 14k trailer (even though you only load it to 9k)....the sum of the GVWR's exceed the 26k threshhold and a CDL is required. Since the trailer is over 10k (rating) that is a class A.

Example: if you drive a F450 truck with a 16.5k GVWR and hook it to a trailer rated at 9990 GVWR the sum still exceeds 26k....however since the trailer is rated under 10k....only a CDL class B is requried.

So quite simply, what is the GVWR of the truck and what is the GVWR of the trailer

I see you live in central Ohio (as do I) are you sure that is law in Ohio?

 

[Rancher Ed]

First off.....are you actually commercial.

The C in CDL is for commercial. I dont know the laws in all states or how they are enforced....but often times personal use is exempt. Personal, Farming, RV's, etc.

Now regarding the Three CDL classes.....its NOT (I repeat) its NOT the weight of the vehicle. Rather its the weight RATING.

Look at your truck. Inside the door it should list the GVWR. Your trailer will also have a GVWR.

If the combination of those two RATINGS exceed 26k....then that is CDL.

The trailer being under or over 10k only makes a difference determining whether a class A or a class B is required.

Example.....if your have a 1-ton dually with a GVWR of 14k (even though the truck only weighs 8k) and a 14k trailer (even though you only load it to 9k)....the sum of the GVWR's exceed the 26k threshhold and a CDL is required. Since the trailer is over 10k (rating) that is a class A.

Example: if you drive a F450 truck with a 16.5k GVWR and hook it to a trailer rated at 9990 GVWR the sum still exceeds 26k....however since the trailer is rated under 10k....only a CDL class B is requried. Incorrect - No CDL is required for this combination.

So quite simply, what is the GVWR of the truck and what is the GVWR of the trailer

I see LD1 responded while I was typing. This is overall a great explanation with a minor mis-understanding related to Class B CDL requirements.

Class B can most easily be thought of as large straight trucks and is required for vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more (provided they are not towing a trailer with GVWR 10,001 pounds or greater).

EXAMPLES: A F650 typically has a GVWR=24k or 26k. No CDL is needed to drive just the truck, and no CDL is needed to two a trailer up to GVWR = 10,000 pounds. Towing a trailer with GVWR = 10,001 pounds (typical 12k or 14k trailer) will require a Class A CDL because the GVWR is >26,000 pounds and the trailer GVWR is >10,000 pounds.

An F750 typically has a GVWR = 33k. This requires a Class B CDL to drive the truck empty or to tow a trailer up to GVWR = 10,000 pounds. Towing a trailer with GVWR = 10,001 pounds (typical 12k or 14k trailer) will bump the required CDL to a Class A because the GVWR is obviously >26,000 pounds and the trailer GVWR is >10,000 pounds.

 

[Hay Dude]

Got my class A over 30 years ago and Im so glad I did.

 

[LD1]

See how confusing it is.

Depending on what states article comes up....or what independent website interpreted the law.

State laws can supersede federal. But in a nutshell

Class A is a COMBINATION. Meaning a truck + trailer. And if that combination of GVWR's is over 26,001 and the trailer makes up more than 10k of that....then its a class A

Class B is just a truck over 26,001. OR....any truck over 26,001 with a trailer as long as trailer is under 10k

But I have seen several articles indicate that a combined truck + trailer rating but the trailer still is under 10k still needs a CDL. Which by federal standards wouldnt fall into either class A or B. Like my example above or rancher Ed's example of a F650 towing a 9k trailer. The combined gross is over 26k....but just the truck alone isnt so it dont fit class B description by the feds. ANd the trailer isnt over 10k so it also dont belong in class A.

In any case....for the OP, a 10k truck with a 12k trailer is good to go for anyone with a standard drivers license to tow around

 

[crashz]

Italic is directly from my FMSCA driver handbook:

FMSCA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) Regulations Part 383 Definitions, defines a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) as a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle is a -
(1) Combination Vehicle (Group A) - having a gross combination weight rating or gross combination weight of 26,001lbs, whichever is greater inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 10,001lbs, whichever is greater; or
(2) Heavy Straight Vehicle (Group B) - having a gross combination weight rating (GVW tag on the vehicle) or gross combination weight of 26,001lbs...

Check out the exemptions though. Look up FMSCA Part 390.3 General applicability, parts f, 1-7. (3) states The occasional transportation of personal property by individual not for compensation and not in the furtherance of a commercial enterprise.

The rules do apply to actual weight as well as weight rating when/if the vehicles are over loaded. My F450 is rated at a GVWR of 15,000lbs and trailer at 10,000lbs. If I'm 1000lbs over on the trailer, working for $, and get pulled over, I would also be in violation of operating a commercial vehicle without the proper license.

Tricky stuff, but OP I think you are currently OK.

 

[Hay Dude]

I'm so confused now...thought I used to know the numbers for being under CDL but never heard of this 10k limit for the towed vehicle before.

Just so I'm not already illegal. If I have a 7k tow vehicle, a 5k trailer, with a 7.5k load my total weight is 19.5k so I am under the 26k threshold and okay? Or have I been driving illegally every time I move my tractor?

I'm very confused about the 10k limited for towed vehicles I guess is my issue and google isn't helping me at all.

Youre ok, but you might need a med card.
I have had one since the 90’s, so its pretty fuzzy in my memory, but I thought the med card threshold was 17,500 combo if doing any commercial business.
To get a med card, you have to have a physical exam, vision test and pee in a cup for drugs every 2 years in my state.
I also have random drug and alcohol screening. I dont do either, so nothing for me to worry about, but the screenings are a big PITA.

 

[LD1]

I see you live in central Ohio (as do I) are you sure that is law in Ohio?

Nope.

Too many grey areas. Ask a dozen LEO's and you will get a dozen different examples.

There is a big difference of what the laws actually mean, and how they are interpreted and enforced by boots on the ground.

Around here, if your sporting a dually and gooseneck with a tractor or something on it (not the hotshot truckers hauling 3-car wedges)....you get waived through and look at like you are stupid if you pull into a weigh station amongst the 18-wheelers.

BUT, by the letter of the law....I have a 14k GVWR dually. And I can tow a 12k equipment trailer no problem. But upgrade to a 14k and all of the sudden a class A is required. Same trailer towed by dads slightly older dually one ton with its 12k GVWR gets a free pass.

The laws are stupid......at one time no "pickup" truck would exceed the the requirements under normal circumstances. But the never ending war among the big 3 to drive up the tow ratings and GVWR's have made it all but impossible for small-time landscaper-types to comply with the laws. 25 years ago who would have though twice about buying a new 14k trailer to go with their new pickup. OR even splurging and upgrading to 8k axles. But now its is a real concern.

The laws were originally intended to require further driver training to drive a dumptruck, a schoolbus, an 18-wheeler, or a heavy duty straight truck. The laws are long over due to be revised to reflect current "pickup" trucks.

Ohio is not a strict state when it comes to this aspect. But again, all depends on the LEO and their mood for the day and their knowledge of the "letter of the law". But I feel bad for those that live in areas that it has become all about a money grab and targeting the landscape/hardscape crews and companies. Landscape companies cannot (and shouldnt) be required to pay CDL-A wages for their general laborers towing a trailer with a dingo, mowers, a trencher, etc.

 

[sea2summit]

Got my class A over 30 years ago and Im so glad I did.

It's on my list but my real job is holding me back

 

[WM75Guy]

In Texas there is a non-commercial Class A and Class B available for certain uses. I had a Class A non-commercial license to drive firetrucks. Also the trailer can go to 20,000# if it is a farm trailer and not go into Class A or B territory.

Class of Non-Commercial Driver License​

Class A, B, C, and M driver licenses are issued to individuals who are exempt from obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL) or who are not required to obtain a CDL.

NOTE: Individuals who are exempt from obtaining a CDL may still be required to obtain a Class A or B driver license if the type of vehicle driven meets the weight requirement for a Class A or B vehicle.

Individuals who are exempt from obtaining a CDL but may need a Class A or B driver license are:

• Operators of recreational vehicles driven for personal use
• Some farmers who meet certain criteria
• Operators of cotton-seed modules or cotton burrs
• A fire-fighting or emergency vehicle operator
• Military vehicle operators
• Vehicles owned, leased or controlled by an air carrier

For more information on exemptions, please refer to the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook.

Class B

Authorizes an individual to drive: Single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more Single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more that is towing a vehicle with a GVWR that does not exceed 10,000 pounds or a farm trailer with a GVWR that does not exceed 20,000 pounds A bus with a seating capacity of 24 passengers or more including the driver

Class C

Authorizes an individual to drive: Single vehicle or combination of vehicles that are not included in Class A or B Single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds towing a farm trailer with a GVWR that does not exceed 20,000 pounds Designed to transport 23 or less passengers including the driver Note: Vehicles rated for the transport of 16-23 passengers including the driver require a Class C CDL, unless exempt An autocycle.

 

[sd455dan]

Sea2summit if you get bored can always entertain yourself with this classic TBN discussion,

When the new 1 tons pushed the CDL boundaries

3500 truck needs CDL?

I was told that since the capacities of the new trucks have increased, a CDL is required for any truck whose weight and payload exceed 10,000lbs. I asked a second person and they said that was correct and that is why you see a lot less dualies these days. Is this true?

www.tractorbynet.com

 

[lostcause]

Ok, so here's my question: what about a homemade trailer that has no GVWR... how does that play in? we don't declare any weight rating here if it is homemade, and there are tons of homemade trailers on the roads.

 

[LD1]

Ok, so here's my question: what about a homemade trailer that has no GVWR... how does that play in? we don't declare any weight rating here if it is homemade, and there are tons of homemade trailers on the roads.

They would probably go by axle ratings.

But if you are hauling with a homemade trailer....odds are you arent commercial anyway

 

[Hersheyfarm]

Did we ever decide if OP is commercial?
Here in Ky the trailer weight does not come into play unless gvwr is 26001.
10001 requires a med and dot # card but it absolutely not enforced. Contractors in pickup trucks and vans are not pulled over. California is the only state I know with the 10k trailer thing. Ridiculous.
if your not commercial, ie, making money you are not commercial and have no need for a cd…if your state is like ky.

 

[ROUSTABOUT]

So I do not have a CDL, poorly worded. Should have said non-cdl.

Okay so my GVWR on my truck is 10k and the trailer is 12k I'm good without a CDL unless I load the trailer up to 10,001# or have an exemption from my state, is that correct?

And you are not a commercial business. It makes a difference if it's your stuff or you're being paid to drive someone else's stuff. I drive over cdl often but it's farm related. I mean a kenworth and a low boy with a track hoe. I think I can go up to 300 miles from farm legally.