Profile For Adam V.

It shouldn't be an issue in Florida because you're under 26,001 pounds and it's recreational use.

The cheapest easy option might be to trade your trailer for one with a lower GVWR, if they're giving you that much of a hard time over it.

I got stopped in Maine last summer where the DOT inspector simply added the GVWR of both units and added them (12k.5 + 15k= NFG) and he parked me on the turnpike. Boats aren't covered under the RV exception as RV is defined as a mobile unit designed to be lived in. I 'could' argue that my boat has living quarters but I doubt it would fly.

Trailer is triple axles each rated at 5k, which really determines the overrating, not sure they make 'lighter' axles and given the boat itself is 9k dry, I'd prefer to have some more wiggle room if need be. Toying with seeing if the trailer manuf. would be willing to 're-rate' it. I could also have an 'accident' on the trailer tongue to make the label unreadable and force them to go with a scale slip.

Anyone with FL CDL experience know of an easy way to get certified?

You're looking for a non commercial class A endorsement. The process will vary by state.

In my state of Pennsylvania, you apply for a permit and take a road test and you'd use your boat trailer and whatever you pull it with.

The caveat is you need somebody that has a class A license to ride with you to the testing center.

Reach out to your states DMV or go the their website and look up non commercial class A license and it should give you more information.

Appreciate the response. I'm in FL where the laws around this are clear as the muddy everglades. There is debate all over the place whether CDL is needed, different responses from DOT vs Officers vs Commercial weigh station personnel. :\

Long story short, FL doesn't offer a non commercial class A. Its either a CDL-A or not.

Hi all,

I'm a non commercial driver that merely hauls his boat along the east coast. Problem is my truck GVWR is 12.5k and the boat trailer is rated for 15k. That said while I only tip scales at 21k, I have come across state police that felt like giving grief with simply rating sticker addition.

I'm looking for some CDL avenue to keep me legit but without breaking the bank and spending time in a classroom.

Does anyone have advice on this that doesn't include "drive at night", lol

Thx