Generally speaking, an RV used for recreational purposes is not considered a commercial vehicle. However, some semi-trucks are registered as RVs.
Most states won’t require an RV driver to have a commercial driver’s license to operate that vehicle. To be considered an RV, you have to have only two axles, everything that creates sleeping and living quarters such as an area to sleep, refrigerator, shower, or toilet, and with these things, you can register your semi as an RV.
You’re interested in this topic, so keep reading to learn how to register your semi as an RV and the benefits.
Can I Register My Semi Truck as an RV?
All state’s guidelines are different, so you need to check what is needed to make this conversion legal. For example, you may have to visually identify your new RV as an actual RV or say “not for hire’. This is frequently not enough, so you need to ensure that the proper steps to acquire legitimate legal paperwork are taken to prove your title classification.
You can easily register your semi-truck as an RV. However, there is a simple area that you need to check off of your checklist before your vehicle can qualify as an RV, this being a permanent sleeping quarters or bedroom.
Indeed, you can register your semi as an RV, but it’s important to note that you cannot compete for any prizes/earnings while using your semi if you do not have a CDL and if your vehicle is not titled as a commercial vehicle, this applies within any state.
What Steps Do I Need to Take to Register a Semi-Truck as an RV?
Before we dive into the steps you need to take to register your semi-truck as an RV, take note that you can drive a two-axle tractor up to 19,500gvwr with a regular Class A license. Likewise, you can pull up to 10,000 pounds or a 15,000-pound gooseneck trailer, but once you’re over these weight ranges, you’ll need a Class A non-commercial license.
So take notice of the specific requirements for each type of license and make sure that you have the correct one to not only drive but operate your newly registered vehicle in the way that you plan to. Basically, you can operate your tractor-trailer as long as it’s fitted as a camper or motorhome. Following that general idea will meet the legal process one acquiring registration more straightforward.
As mentioned above, laws and guidelines apply differently for different states, so check your state’s DMV guidelines before continuing your conversion or registration transfer. You will have to check off a few things before you can consider your semi-truck or conversion of your semi-trucks to be eligible for registration as an RV.
All of the following must be done before registering:
- You will need to have an inspection of the vehicle
- You often need 110 volts of power supply or more
- Heating or air conditioning from a power source other than the engine
- An appliance with an onboard fuel supply
- Potable water access
- Septic disposal
- Sleeping quarters
These are just a few steps/tips that you need to take into consideration before going down to your local DMV. All state DMV sites will not answer every question you have regarding this process, especially since there are many gray areas here, so don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and contact your local DMV directly. Click here to get specific steps required by your state
Why Register My Semi as an RV?
Once you convert into an RV, you will not have a commercial license, and you will not have to worry about late fees. So, no, you do not have to stop at any weigh stations or scales. However, remember that you have to remove the commercial trailer air brakes as well, and since you can only have two axles, you have to remove the forward rear axle.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still interested in going forward with converting or registering your semi-truck as an RV, click here to see what a semi-truck RV looks like and how you can convert it to an RV or RV hauler legally.
Remember that you can register your semi as an RV. You just have to meet a few prerequisites before you can do so. We all know how frustrating the DMV can be, so made sure to try to follow all of the steps and guidelines on your local DMV’s website on how to achieve this process.
