Steps needed to be legal (1 Viewer)

[Amohd]

I just bought a Kaufman 2 car hauler, I'm in Birmingham Alabama and I need to go pick up two of my own cars out of Phoenix Arizona. I don't want any trouble going or coming. What do I need to have done before making my trip to be sure everything is legit and legal?

 

[cruiserdan]

As a private citizen transporting your own vehicles I should think you are perfectly fine. Be sure the trailer is registered and licensed in accordance with the state it resides in and carry proof of insurance and paper that shows you as the owner of the cars on the trailer.

I can't imagine you would need more than that.

 

[Amohd]

So there is no reason for me to apply for a DOT#? I thank you so much for your help

 

[cruiserdan]

That would apply to commercial vehicles for hire. You would be an individual transporting your own possessions.

 

[cruiserdan]

The only hang up may be the type of driver's license you possess. Look at the back of your license and see if there are limits to the length or weight you are permitted to operate.

If your trailer exceeds that be sure to not speed and don't run any stop signs....

 

[Amohd]

All it says on the back is

CLASS D- REGULAR OPERATORS LICENSE
CLASS M- MOTORCYCLE

 

[Amohd]

I wouldn't imagine I'd need a CDL to pull a two car trailer

 

[cruiserdan]

For example the back of my license states that I cannot exceed a GVW of 26,000 lbs and the tow vehicle must weigh more than the trailer unless it is an equalizer or 5th wheel hitch.

 

[Amohd]

Mine says nothing like that all

 

[cruiserdan]

Look up your state regs and see what the "class D" license permits you to operate.

 

[Amohd]

Nothing is listed under restrictions

 

[cruiserdan]

According to this page a class D is : "Class D – Private passenger, regular operator."

http://dps.alabama.gov/home/wfConte...DriverLicense-ClassesEndorsementsRestrictions

 

[Amohd]

http://dps.alabama.gov/home/wfConte...DriverLicense-ClassesEndorsementsRestrictions

Says private passenger, Regular operator.

 

[cruiserdan]

Great minds think alike...

 

[Amohd]

So this means I should be fine in my travels, correct?

 

[cruiserdan]

The way I read it the higher classifications specifically mention trailers heavier than 26,000 pounds so you should be good. New Mexico simply spells it out because we are a bit slower here.....

 

[greentruck]

If you look at the top of that page, you'll see that the other classes apply to those operating vehicles greater than 26,000 lb. So it's presumed that your Class D only permits operations of vehicles less than that.

IIRC, this has become pretty standard across the board in the various states as federal licensing of CDLs has become more rigorous. I'm pretty sure that applies most places now, where it used to vary more widely before.

There are also some exceptions for ag loads, but these generally apply in-state only IIRC. You could drive the farm's semi to the elevator, but not cross country. Even that's been tightened up along with other stuff, so there may no longer be an ag exception.

 

[cruiserdan]

More great minds....

 

[Amohd]

I'll be pulling at max 22k

 

[cruiserdan]

Hit the road.