"The answer is simple. Anybody that hauls for hire needs a CDL." He went on to explain anytime you haul for profit, whether it be cash, goods, prize, or returned services such as "you haul my horse and I'll bale hay for you," or if you cross state lines (except for pleasure riding),you need a CDL and a DOT number. But he also said the DOT would have to be really looking to give you a ticket for some of those instances.

He also answered the question of how and where to attach your break away brake cable. He suggested a clip of at least equal strength of you chains, to the bracket that you attach your chains to. Do not attach the cable to your hook.

Hope this answers all these questions once and for all.

If your vehicle or combination of vehicles has a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) or GCVWR (Gross Combined Vehicle Weight Rating) of less than 10,001 lbs., you do not need to be concerned about these things. However, if your rig has a GVWR or GCVWR of 10,001 lbs. or more, you must make some decisions. (The GVWR is determined by the manufacturer and should be marked on your trailer and your tow vehicle. The GCVWR can be obtained by adding the two together. A two-horse trailer and a pickup truck can easily be rated over 10,001 lbs.).

Even if you don't haul horses for money, the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) can consider you "commercial". Operating a commercial stable, hauling horses for show (with intent to profit), rodeo, race, sale, training, or for compensation are examples of "commercial ventures" as defined by the DOT for those who are traveling interstate. Those who only travel intrastate need only be concerned with the regulations within their own state of residence. Most states have the same regulations and some have even more stringent laws.

If you fall into the commercial category, you must follow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR). This means that you must carry a logbook, medical card, certain safety equipment (such as flares, triangles, fire extinguisher etc.) and your vehicle must be equipped with certain features such as required lights, safety chains, brakes, and breakaway brake. You must also have a federal inspection sticker, ID number, and a sign on your truck.

For interstate travel, a commercial drivers license is only necessary for driving a vehicle or combination of vehicles over 26,001 lbs. Some states have additional classified licenses for those who drive vehicles or combinations under 26.001 lbs.
Farm exemptions are available, but if you have a farm plate, you may not travel more than 150 miles from your farm.

The only people that need CDL's for the motorhomes are the ones that deliver them from factory to dealer. My theory is that states are missing a great revenue source from testing and licensing those "recreational" drivers.

Don't worry...if any more revenue sources for the government dry up...They'll start looking...

Then we'll find out how good AARP's lobbying really is...