TL:DR Can GVWR be lowered on older commercial trucks for compliance with Standard License to be used only for personal use?
Hello, I am reposting here because I got nothing on r/legaladvice, I’m not sure this is the place but I hope I can post here. I am looking for some help regarding a classic truck that I am trying to buy, a 1954 International R-190, the door tag says 26,500 GVWR, but you need a CDL for 26000# or higher. Personally I want the truck for enjoyment and not commercial use, so I have no need for a CDL at this time. I believe federal standards have changed since 1954, as it’s a single axle truck rated for 26,500, but according to CA.Gov (35550. (a) The gross weight on any one axle shall not exceed 20,000 pounds, and the gross weight upon any one wheel, or wheels, supporting one end of an axle, shall not exceed 10,500 pounds.) As this is stated, the absolute maximum this truck should be permitted for by today’s laws would be 21,000LB which is what the information manual states should be on the 190 Model. If I bought the truck, and took it to be registered, could I have the GVWR lowered to 20,000LB, or 21,000LB and registered so it can be compliant with a standard license?
You must log in or register to comment.
Im pretty sure you can do that in my state, but youre in California so I’d probably stop at a notary and ask before you buy
How do they register RVs? I’m pretty sure those big RVs are pushing similar weights.
You can just fill out a form with DMV and lower the rating. I’ve done it multiple times for our fleet vehicles.
Why not just ask the licensing people instead? Or the DMV? If you’re asking about a regulated vehicle why not ask the experts in person?