Do you need a CDL to drive a Skoolie in Georgia?

In this article, we will answer the following question: Do you need a CDL to drive a Skoolie in Georgia? We will explain what states require a CDL to drive a Skoolie and how to apply for a CDL in Georgia if you need it. 

Do you need a CDL to drive a Skoolie in Georgia?

No, you do not need a CDL to drive a Skoolie in Georgia. A Skoolie is a school bus converted to a recreational vehicle, thus, you do not need a special licence to drive an RV in Georgia. You may need one if your trip is out of state, however!

A commercial driving licence allows operating certain types of vehicles, such as cargo transport vans, various types of trucks and buses, among others. The different classes of CDL licenses determine which vehicles can be driven, but also the endorsements that must be obtained. 

As long as your trip is non-commercial, here are the license requirements for each state with your RV or Skoolie, once converted:

Applying for a Georgia CDL

The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) allows you to operate a commercial vehicle or bus in Georgia and possibly other states, depending on your qualifications. To obtain a CDL or a commercial learner’s permit in Georgia, you must meet all the requirements to obtain a valid and regular class C Georgia driver’s license.

Drivers must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a GA business license. NOTE: Drivers 18-21 years of age will be restricted to driving only in Georgia (in-state). On or after the 21st birthday, the driver must go to the test station and the Georgia Only restriction will be lifted.

What is considered a commercial vehicle?

The following vehicle types and combinations require the driver to have a commercial driver’s license:

• Combination of vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more,
• Single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more
• Single vehicle designed to transport more than 15 people (including the driver)
• Any size vehicle that requires hazardous material plates.

CDL application:

To apply for a CDL license you must complete a CDL application; The application fee is $ 35.00. Submit the completed application fee and application to any Service Center and take the required written knowledge exams.

All CDL written (knowledge) exams must be taken at least 45 minutes prior to the Client Center closing time. There is a $ 10 fee that is paid before taking the knowledge exams. Upon successful completion of the exams, the $ 10 fee pays for the instruction permit. If it is determined that you failed any of the exams, the $ 10 fee is withheld as a testing fee. The $ 10 permit fee will be paid again on the next trial attempt.

The CDL Application for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can be obtained at Service Centers. The Commercial Driver’s Manual can be viewed online or can be obtained from one of the DDS Service Centers.

Note: Veterans and school bus drivers who present necessary documentation will not have to pay fees.

The bottom line

As you’ve seen, you do not need a CDL to drive a Skoolie in Georgia, as long as your reasons are purely personal.  Driving a school bus is not as hard as it may seem, but of course, you must be aware of your Skollies’ dimensions, power and capacities. Good Skoolie drivers look into the distance, anticipate situations, act without delay and demonstrate prevention while driving. 

Please let us know if you have any questions or comments on the content!

FAQ on Do you need a CDL to drive a Skoolie in Georgia?

How big of an RV can I drive without a CDL?

You can drive an RV of 6500 lbs or less without a CDL. However, this will vary across states, as in some places (Illinois, Arizona, Alaska, Nebraska, Mississippi for example) you don’t require a CDL for an RV no matter its size!

What driving Licence do I need to drive an RV in the USA?

In the USA, you will need either a CDL or Non-CDL type of licence depending on the state you registered your RV in, also on its weight, length and height.

Do you need a CDL to drive an RV in Texas?

You do not need a CDL to drive an RV in Texas, but you will, however, need a Non-CDL special licence. This means that to drive an RV that weighs over 26,000 lbs you will need a Class B license, and to drive multiple vehicles (e.g. when towing) with a combined weight over 26,000 lb you will need a Class A licence. 

Do you need a CDL to drive an RV in Maryland?

To drive an RV in Maryland, you will need a Non-CDL type of licence. This means that a Class B license is required for vehicles over 26,000 lb.  A non-commercial driver’s license (Non-CDL) is the most common class of license most drivers hold. 

Do you need a CDL to drive a school bus in Florida?

You need a CDL to drive a school bus in Florida along with an endorsement for School Bus (S) and Passengers (P)  if your purpose is commercial, meaning you are working as a school bus driver, for example. 

Other FAQs about Skoolie that you may be interested in.

How long can a Skoolie last?

How much do Skoolies cost?

How much does a Skoolie roof raise cost?

References

• Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Skoolie? (Bus Conversion FAQs)
• Vehicles Requiring A CDL In Each State | Buses For Sale
• CDL License Requirements [Your In-Depth Guide]