Pennsylvania - Questions About Registered GVWR and Class A Licensing

Discussion in 'Questions To Truckers From The General Public' started by Reborn756, Jul 31, 2023.

  1. Reborn756

    Reborn756 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 31, 2023
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    Howdy folks, thanks for having me! Just stopping by to ask a question regarding a truck I am looking to purchase. This is in Pennsylvania.

    I am looking at a Ford C600 Cabover with a GVWR of 23,000LBS on the door tag. According to PA law, this means I do not need a Class A to operate the truck. HOWEVER, the truck was fitted with a shop body and boom and titled in PA with 30,000LBS GVWR on the title.

    How does this work? Since the truck's title says 30,000LBS, do I need a Class A? Or can I register the truck with the state as 23,000 LBS and drive it with a Class C since the door tag also says 23,000LBS? Will the state even allow me to register it that low considering the weight on the title is 30,000LBS?

    Curious how the law applies here, and how the police determine if I need a Class A to operate the vehicle if I were to be pulled over.

    The truck will not be used for commercial purposes. I will be removing the shop body and boom and restoring this truck and using it in truck shows. I don't want to register it as an Antique though because my intention is to mount something like a Deuce and a Half bed on it so that it could be used for work (like hauling mulch for the wife) if necessary.

    Thanks in advance folks!
     
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  3. MrBryan

    MrBryan Bobtail Member

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    Omaha, ne
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    Sir, I did some research for you. I'm not from PA but I have referred to your state legislature, In specific Title 75 refers to all vehicle and licensing requirements and limitations.


    It states under Title 75 Chapter 49
    SUBCHAPTER C MAXIMUM WEIGHTS OF VEHICLES

    Maximum Gross Weight In Pounds Two-axle motor vehicle 38,000

    Chapter 15
    § 1512. Restrictions on drivers' licenses.
    (2) The individual's driving privilege is limited to passenger vehicles weighing no more than 10,000 pounds and excludes operation of a motorcycle.

    In the DMV FAQ for licensing it also states the requirements for a Class A vehicle.

    Anyone who drives a commercial motor vehicle. The definition of a commercial motor vehicle is: a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, provided the vehicle being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds; a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds; a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; a school bus; or any vehicle that is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded in accordance with State and Federal regulations.

    In your situation, you will have to take the truck to a CAT scale and weigh it. Any single vehicle over the weight of 26,001 is required for the operator to carry a Class A.

    I hope this helps.


    Site reference:
    Title 75


    Commercial Driver’s License FAQ
     
  4. Iamoverit

    Iamoverit Light Load Member

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    Oct 31, 2023
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    Incorrect. It's class B until he tows more than 10k.
     
  5. Iamoverit

    Iamoverit Light Load Member

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    Oct 31, 2023
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    PA will let you register by stated weight if I remember correctly and you won't need a class A until you tow over 10k. If you won't be using it for commercial purposes and it's GVWR/GCVWR is less than 26k you wont need a CDL at all. Contact PENNDOT they'll fill you in on the rest.
     
  6. MrBryan

    MrBryan Bobtail Member

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    Omaha, ne
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    As you can see I was able to draw response for you, Sir. You are not towing, please disregard his response but he is correct by definition in the PA DMV licensing definition

    This is a non-commercial class B that covers heavy single vehicle. You are not towing or combination, meaning the use of a fifth wheel and trailer.

    Website
    License Types & Restrictions
    CLASS B (minimum age 18): Required to operate any single vehicle rated in excess of 26,000 pounds. Example: Motor homes rated at 26,001 pounds or more.
     
  7. Ex-Trucker Alex

    Ex-Trucker Alex Medium Load Member

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    Jan 7, 2023
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