How to Take an RV Driving Safety Program

Some people love the idea of traveling around the country in an RV, but get intimidated thinking about handling such a large vehicle. Others aren't interested in RVs, but are concerned to learn those who drive them aren't required to have a commercial driver's license or any special training. It seems everyone would be well served if RV drivers completed a safety program before taking to the highways of America.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Locate an RV driving safety program from a variety of sources. It would be best to find one endorsed by a national group, like AARP or The National Safety Council. If you can't find one of those nearby, check online, at RV exhibits, rallies and clubs, AAA or other road assistance programs, or even your insurance company.

2. Choose two or three RV safe driving programs after browsing a bit and then do some investigating. Contact the Better Business Bureau, check with your auto insurance company, ask the driving school for references and call at least two people who've completed their program. Make sure the schools are being operated by someone certified to do so and that everything's on the up and up.

3. Prepare yourself for a fast-paced, intensive program with most instruction lasting a couple of days. You'll cover defensive driving skills, proper lane changing procedures, backing, judging height and width and hooking up and disconnecting the RV's tow unit. And that may just be the first day.

4. Return to class the next day and you'll learn proper use of mirrors, turning, cornering, proper use of engine, gears, breaks, stopping and starting, freeway driving, including on and off ramps, single-lane roads, hills, backing up and more.

5. Complete the curriculum and you'll get a certificate to show you've taken an RV driving safety program. Scan and email or fax a copy to your auto insurance company as they may reward you with a lower premium.

Tips & Warnings

• Some RV driving programs also offer additional days of instruction (for an additional fee, of course) to teach you how to get used to backing up, setting up and leveling your RV in a camp site, skills the sales people might not have taught you.

Resources

• An RV driving school with a links page worth its weight in gold.