My truck's GVWR is 8800 (I think), my trailer is 15k. The Washington laws are:

A Washington CDL is required if you operate any of the following CMV's . . .
1. A vehicle with a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 26,000 lbs.
2. A vehicle towing a unit with a manufacturer's GVWR of more than 10,000 lbs. when the GCWR exceeds 26,000 lbs.
3. A vehicle used to . . .(a.) carry 15 or more passengers (excluding the driver), or (b.) carry (15) or less people (including the driver) when carrying children to or from school and home regularly for compensation.
4. A vehicle carrying hazardous materials in amounts requiring placarding.

My trailer is over 10k, but the combined weight is only 23.8k, so I should be okay with a standard license, right?

 

You will be ok if your not commercial, ie your own horses in the trailer. That's a big trailer for a 3/4 ton though.

 

According to the laws, I thought I was in compliance, but when I got it registered at the CA DMV (where I bought it), they told me that I'd have to get a CDL, even though I was a WA resident. Just wanted to make sure.

It's a big trailer, but it pulls great. This is my first gooseneck trailer, and it pulls better than any of the much smaller bumperpulls I've had before.

 

"A Washington CDL is required if you operate any of the following CMV's . "


I believe the question is already answered. You are not a commercial vehicle.

 

CDL standards are Federal Law not State Law. You do not need a CDL to operate that combination ( private or commercial ).

 

he does not need a CDL as long as you are pulling our own stock. you do need a CDL, IF you are getting paid for hauling anything! if your getting paid for hauling you are a commercial vehicle. DOT rules apply

 

I don't know where you are getting this info but it is wrong.

 

The CDL requirement is operating a vehicle over 26,000 lbs unless you are hauling Hazmat then you need a Hazmat endorsement regardless of weight . You will need a DOT number and DOT inspection on the truck . ( If you are "qualified " to inspect the truck yourself you can get the inspection form and sticker at most truck stops for under $5. For vehicles over 10,000lbs. GVW you need a DOT physical card . Some people may say you don't . The physical costs $40 -$50 . The fine for no card is $300 and you park the truck until you get one . What you need if hauling for hire is DOT authority with an MV number . If you want to see real controversy over licensing requirements go to hotshothauling.com . BTW, CA doesn't know squat about truck regulations . They'll try to say you are on duty just sitting in a truck but Federal regs allow you to drive an unladen truck a reasonable distance off duty for food or lodging .