Alberta Driver’s Licence Renewal Guide

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As a resident of Alberta, it's crucial to maintain a valid driver's licence to adhere to legal driving requirements. If your licence has expired or is about to, don’t wait. Alberta Driver’s Licence Renewal in Edmonton is a straightforward process, and getting it done on time helps you avoid unnecessary stress, delays, or penalties. This comprehensive guide is crafted to guide you through each step of the renewal process and explain how Riverbend Registries can help. It ensures that you can resume your driving activities as quickly and efficiently as possible. The Importance of Timely Renewal Before proceeding with the…

Vehicle Registration Renewal in Edmonton: In-Person vs. Online

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Renewing your vehicle registration doesn’t have to be a chore. In Alberta, you can’t drive an unregistered vehicle—doing so can lead to a minimum $230 fine. Your registration confirms that you are the legal owner of the vehicle, and it ensures that things run smoothly with the province. Whether you're in Edmonton or beyond, vehicle registration renewal is something you’ll want to handle before your sticker runs out. It’s important to note that Alberta no longer automatically sends renewal notices, which means it’s easy to forget your expiry date. That’s why setting your own reminder and knowing your options can…

When and Why to Cancel Your Vehicle Registration in Alberta

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Some of the most common reasons car owners need to cancel their vehicle registration are a stolen plate, or they’re moving out of the province or country. When cancelling your vehicle registration, you’ll need to fill out a Licence Plate/Parking Placard Cancellation Form and visit the registry or send your cancellation request by mail. If you’re replacing your existing vehicle with a new one, you are not required to cancel your vehicle registration. If the registration is under your name, you can transfer the registration and the licence plate to your new car. When Should You Cancel Your Vehicle Registration?…

Keeping the Roads Safe This Canada Day

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As we approach the spirited celebrations of Canada Day, it’s crucial to consider an often-overlooked aspect of the festivities – road safety. While we all eagerly anticipate the fireworks, the barbeques, and the shared sense of national pride, we must also prioritize safe and responsible driving. In alignment with this commitment, Riverbend Registry has put together a set of recommendations and services to help you navigate the roads safely and slowly this Canada Day. Drive Safe and Slow Driving safely and slowly is imperative, particularly during a major holiday like Canada Day. The roads are busier with excited revellers heading to…

A Step-by-Step Guide to Cancelling Vehicle Registration When Moving Out of Alberta

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Moving out of Alberta can be an exciting adventure, filled with new opportunities and experiences! However, before you set off to your new destination, there are a few important tasks to take care of. One of those key things is cancelling your vehicle registration. Whether you're moving to another province or even another country, ensuring your Alberta vehicle registration is cancelled will prevent you from being financially responsible for any further registration fees. It might sound complicated, but don't worry—Riverbend Registry is here to make the process as smooth as possible! Here’s your guide to cancelling your vehicle registration when…

How Riverbend Registry Supports Seniors with Personal Registry Services

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As we age, life can get more complicated. The things we used to handle with ease, like paperwork and official forms, may become overwhelming. Whether it's renewing your driver’s license, updating your vehicle registration, or handling personal property documents, these tasks can feel like extra stress. That’s where our helpful team at Riverbend Registry can help! We believe in making life easier for seniors, offering personal registry services in Alberta that are tailored to your needs with care and respect. Special Discount for Seniors At Riverbend Registry, we’re proud to offer a 25% discount on personal registry services to seniors…

Exciting News for Alberta Seniors: Save 25% on Personal Registry Services

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Taking care of personal documents and registrations doesn’t have to be stressful—especially if you’re a senior in Alberta! Here’s some great news to make things a little easier: seniors can now save 25% on personal registry services at participating locations. That’s right—getting things like your driver’s license renewed or updating important records just got a whole lot more affordable! At Riverbend Registry, we’re here to help you make the most of this discount, offering friendly guidance and fast service to take the hassle out of your paperwork. Let us make it easy for you to stay on top of your…

When Do You Need a Notary Public in Alberta? Common Situations and Requirements

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You might not think about it often, but a Notary Public can be a real lifesaver when it comes to handling important documents. Whether you’re selling a property, need a travel consent letter for your child’s big trip, or are signing off on a legal agreement, having a Notary Public ensure everything is official and legally valid can save you time, stress, and potential headaches down the road. Luckily, Riverbend Registry is here to make the process easy, fast, and hassle-free, so you can check those important tasks off your to-do list with confidence! Common Situations Requiring a Notary Public…

Starting a Business? Here’s How to Register Your Trade Name in Alberta

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If you're starting a business in Edmonton, registering a trade name is an important step. A trade name allows you to operate your business under a name different from your legal one, making it easier to build brand recognition and appeal to customers. Whether you're launching a café or a tech startup, it's crucial to get it right from the start. The first step is to conduct a trade name search in Alberta to ensure your chosen name is unique and available. At Riverbend Registry in Edmonton, we make it easy to perform a trade name search online and guide…

Happy Holidays From Riverbend Registry!

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The team at Riverbend Registry wishes you and your loved ones a Happy Holidays and an abundant New Year! We want to thank you for your business and continued support. As an Edmonton-run company, we’re proud to support Alberta’s economy and serve our local community with all their registration and licensing needs. This time of year is busy with festivities, and it can be easy to forget registration renewal or overlook an expired licence. The last thing you want is to get pulled over with an expired vehicle registration. With an increase in check stops, knowing everyone will be buzzing…

The Steps to Transferring Out-of-Province Vehicle Registration to Edmonton

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Moving to a new province comes with its own set of tasks, and transferring your out-of-province vehicle registration is one of the essential steps. If you're relocating to Edmonton, this might feel a bit daunting at first, but don’t worry—you’re not alone! With some preparation and Riverbend Registry to guide you, the process can be straightforward and stress-free. Let’s walk you through everything you need to know to prepare your vehicle for Alberta roads. 1. Understand Alberta’s Requirements Alberta has specific regulations for transferring an out-of-province vehicle registration. First and foremost, ensure your vehicle complies with provincial safety standards. Most…

A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Driver’s Licence in Edmonton

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Driving in Canada is a great way to explore and connect with your new surroundings. With beautiful scenery stretching from coast to coast, there’s so much to discover! However, legally driving in Canada requires a driver’s licence authorized by your local province or territory. If you’re new to Alberta or just starting your driving journey, here’s everything you need to know to transition smoothly from a learner’s permit to a full driver’s licence. This guide covers the essential steps, requirements, and insights to help you get your driver’s licence as stress-free as possible and how Riverbend Registry in Edmonton can…

Legal Considerations for Incorporating Your Business in Alberta

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You’ve just started out as a remote worker, or perhaps you’re an established entrepreneur. Regardless, when you’re the boss of your business, you need to make sure you cover all your bases and keep up with both the expected and sudden changes in business ownership. When starting your business, choosing the proper structure is key; one option is setting up a corporation. Corporations can be established at either the federal or provincial level, and they're recognized as separate legal entities, distinct from their shareholders. This means they have their own rights, such as entering into contracts, borrowing or lending money,…

Class 7 vs. Class 5 Driver’s Licence: What You Need to Know

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Getting a driver’s licence in Alberta is an exciting milestone, but understanding the different classes and their requirements can be a bit confusing. If you’re planning to obtain your driver’s licence in Alberta, you’ll need to navigate the province’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. This program is structured to give new drivers ample practice and experience before they can drive independently with fewer restrictions. In this guide, Riverbend Registry will explain the differences between a Class 7 and a Class 5 driver’s licence so you can navigate the licensing process with ease! Class 7 Driver's Licence A Class 7 driver's…

Vehicle Registration Transfer for Leased Vehicles in Edmonton

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Transferring the registration of a leased vehicle can be confusing, especially if you're new to the process. Whether switching leases or moving to Edmonton, understanding the steps involved in vehicle registration transfer is essential. In this blog, Riverbend Registry will cover why you might need to transfer your registration, the step-by-step process, and important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transition! Understanding Vehicle Registration In Alberta, vehicle registration is mandatory for all vehicles on public roads. This registration serves as proof that your vehicle is legally allowed to be driven and confirms your vehicle's association with you,…

Understanding Drivers Licence Classes In Alberta

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Driving in Alberta comes with the excitement of exploring vast landscapes and the convenience of navigating city streets! This is why understanding Alberta's driver licensing classes is essential, whether you're a new driver, a seasoned motorist looking to expand your driving capabilities, or a professional on the road. With seven distinct types of driver's licences, Alberta's system is designed to cater to a diverse range of driving needs, ensuring safety and compliance on the road. Riverbend Registry is here to dive into the essentials of driver licensing in Alberta, highlighting the options and what they mean for you. The Spectrum…

Drivers Licence Renewal for Seniors in Edmonton

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Renewing a driver's licence is an important milestone for senior drivers, symbolizing continued independence and mobility. In Edmonton, the process is designed with both safety and accessibility in mind, ensuring that senior drivers remain competent and confident on the road. Riverbend Registry is here to simplify the driver's licence renewal process for seniors by highlighting essential steps and providing helpful guidance. Key Steps in the Divers Licence Renewal Process Vision Test - Your vision is crucial for safe driving. The renewal process begins with a comprehensive vision test. This is not just a formality but a crucial step to ensure…

Driving Without a Licence in Edmonton: What Can Happen?

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Driving without a valid driver's licence in Alberta is a serious offence that can lead to severe consequences. Whether your licence is suspended, expired, or you've never been licensed, the risks of getting behind the wheel are substantial.  This article outlines what can happen if you're caught driving without proper licensing in Edmonton, emphasizing the importance of adhering to driver licensing laws. What to Do If Your Licence Is Expired or Suspended If your licence is expired or suspended, it's crucial to address this situation promptly. Driving with an expired licence is also a legal offence, though typically less severe…

Preparing for your Driver’s Licence Road Test: A Guide

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Are you gearing up for your driver's licence road test? It's a significant step in your driving journey; being well-prepared is crucial.  This is not just about mastering the vehicle's controls or memorizing the rules of the road; it's also about building the confidence and composure needed to navigate real-world driving scenarios. Your success in the test reflects your readiness to drive safely and responsibly on public roads, making it an essential step towards driving independence. This guide will walk you through key aspects to focus on as you prepare for the big day. And remember, when you're ready to…

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Changes in Alberta

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All new drivers in Alberta, regardless of age, are part of the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. GDL is a system used in many jurisdictions to gradually introduce new drivers to the rules of the road and help them gain experience in a safe and controlled manner. The program typically involves stages or levels that new drivers must progress through before obtaining a full driver's licence in Alberta. But did you know that as of April 1st, 2023, drivers in Alberta are no longer required to take the advanced road test to exit the GDL program? To learn more, Riverbend…

Vehicle Registration Plates: What You Need to Know

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You'll want to understand vehicle registration plates and which service you need when it comes to your daily vehicle, sports cars, import, antique, or farm vehicles. As of April 2016, the Alberta government no longer sends reminder letters to car owners for vehicle registration renewals. You’ll find yourself paying for unnecessary dues and fines if you have an expired plate or vehicle registration. Fortunately, you can sign up online to receive a vehicle registration renewal reminder through email or text message. Here is everything you need to know about vehicle registration. What You'll Need to Get a Licence Plate To…

Registering a Business in Edmonton? Here’s What You Need

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You don’t need to be a large business in order to register as a corporation. Whether you operate a team of 50 or you have a small business with only one employee, you can complete a corporate registry and enjoy the benefits of being a registered business in Alberta. While there are differing provincial policies, corporate registration in Edmonton typically involves searching for and reserving a name, providing business information, and a fee. We go into more detail about the type of documents you need to register a business in Edmonton below. The benefits of registering a business By definition,…

Most Common Driver’s Road Test Mistakes to Avoid

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You’ve passed the written test, received your Learner’s Licence, perhaps signed up for driving lessons, and put in hours of practice - you’re finally ready to book a road test in Edmonton! Completing and passing a road test is the final step in Alberta’s driver licensing process. Understandably, the days leading up to your driver’s road test can be a little nerve-racking. Of course, you want to do well and pass. By now, you likely have a good grasp of proper driving practices and road etiquette, and you might be reading this article to help prep for the day. While…

Personal Property Services In Edmonton

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Did you know that security interests, liens, writs of enforcement, bankruptcy registrations, and other items that fall under personal property must be registered on the Personal Property Registry (PPR) System? The PPR database is used by financial institutions and creditors to obtain credit information on debtors. In some cases, it is also utilized by the government for evidence that can support the seizure and enforced restrictions on personal property.  Property services in Edmonton allow residents to identify whether that property is subject to another registration before buying or accepting it. For example, you can search whether there is a lien…

Land Title Services In Edmonton

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The government of Alberta holds and maintains Land Titles records that are accessible to the public. Land titles have important information such as the current owner and outstanding registered interests in the land like builders’ liens, easements, and more.  At Riverbend Registry, if you’re the sole owner, tenancy-in-common, or have a joint tenancy, we can perform a land title search by legal land description, land identification number code (LINC), or street address. You’ll be given a copy of the land title for a reasonable fee which will be sent to you by regular mail. Our land title services include: Surface…

These Registration Services Are a Necessity for Alberta Business Owners

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Are you a business owner? Or are you in the process of starting your own company? If so, then ensuring the legalities of your venture is paramount. This entails getting on top of such matters like land titles, insurance coverage, corporate registration and any other registry services that are pertinent to the smooth operations of your business. If this sounds like you, then we here at Riverbend Registry can help. We provide a plethora of registration services in Alberta to ensure your company is on the right side of the law. Keep reading to learn more about our services and…

Complete Vehicle Registration Services in Edmonton

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Did you know that registering your car is legally required in Alberta? The penalty for driving an unregistered vehicle is a minimum fine of $230 - a much more costly fee than the registration itself. And the last thing you want to hear is “licence and registration, please” if you’re ever pulled over for any reason while driving an unregistered car. The sole purpose of car registration is to pay a fee to the province you live in that allows the province to keep track of vehicles on the road. It acts as proof that you legally own the vehicle.…

Edmonton Land Title Registrations: What You Need to Know

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Land title registration in Alberta can sometimes be confusing and even intimidating. This is due to the fact that the registrations often possess outmoded lingo, misplaced sheets of data, as well as information that is quite frankly -- deceptive. Edmonton land title forms are also known as encumbrances, and in this article, we will be covering all that you need to know about them. A Certificate of Title: What is it? A property’s title in the province of Alberta is a deed created by ALTO (Alberta Title Land Office). Completing a land title search is the most effective way to…

All you need to know about the air brake endorsement program

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Drivers who want to get a Class 1 driver’s licence must first complete the air brake endorsement. Air brakes are a type of automatic brake that is built into trucks. It works by initiating pressure in an engine-driven compressor, which is transmitted through hoses and valves to the vehicle's foundation brakes. You are not required to have an air brake endorsement if you drive a single-motor farm vehicle in Alberta, but it is needed for driving any kind of combination that requires the driver to hold Class 1. If applying for your class one licence, show proof of your qualifications…

How to avoid long lines at the vehicle registry centre

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Everyone hates waiting in lines, especially if you only need to drop off a few papers or re-register your vehicle. Here are some tips on how to avoid long lines at your local registry in Southwest Edmonton. Avoid busy hours A registry office in Edmonton is usually busy during the following times: Weekends Lunchtime Holidays Opening Closing The first week of the month Last week of the month Days surrounding weekends (like Fridays and Mondays) or holidays People tend to panic at these times because the expiry on vehicle licencing happens at a month-end or they want to get their…

What MELT means for new commercial drivers

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MELT stands for Mandatory Entry-Level Training for commercial drivers. It’s required for individuals who want to obtain a Class 1 or Class 2 driver’s licence, with the exemption for those who have an agricultural or school bus licence extension. This article details what the program involves, the cost, and who is required to take it. What do you need to be eligible for a Class 1 or Class 2 driver’s licence? Our vehicle registry in South Edmonton can help you through the driver’s licencing process or re-class your licence. To get a Class 1 or 2 driver’s licence, you must:…

Driving a Vehicle Without Registration? Avoid Fines with Online Renewal in Edmonton

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In Alberta, driving a vehicle without registration is not only illegal, but it can also lead to serious consequences that often catch many drivers off guard. Whether your registration has expired or you simply forgot to register a newly purchased car, the result is the same: fines, towing, possible impoundment, and a major inconvenience. Many drivers assume they can get away with it for “just a few days,” especially if the vehicle appears fine or they don’t venture far. But enforcement officers won’t overlook it. Alberta law is clear—you must register your vehicle before driving it on any public road.…

Documents you are required to have for a driving test in Alberta

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Driving on municipal roads requires you to have specific licences for the type of permit you need. When you go to a registry office in Edmonton you will need to confirm your identity before you can pass an exam either for a learner’s driving permit or a new driver’s licence. So, what documents are required during the driving test in Edmonton? If you have never driven a vehicle before and wish to obtain a learner’s permit you must pass the test after reading the “Basic Licence Driver’s Handbook” as published by the Alberta Government. You will learn the necessary skills…

4 services for new Canadian immigrants offered by a registry office

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If you’re new to Alberta, we want to extend a warm welcome to Canada - The Great White North! This is an exciting time in your life but also one that can be overwhelming with a list of required to-dos. One of those tasks is heading to your local Edmonton registry office for items that you need for a harmonious and smooth transition. Our friendly and helpful team is here ready to help and can offer the following (and more) services for new immigrants. [caption id="attachment_1088" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Various registry services for new immigrants[/caption] Alberta Identification Card Because you won’t…

Transferring Your Vehicle Registration? Here’s What You Need To Know

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You can transfer your registration from a previous vehicle to another vehicle that you own. If your current registration is valid, you have 14 days to transfer the plate. Note: The 14-day period to transfer your vehicle registration does not apply to commercial vehicles and your insurance documents. You’ll need to contact your insurance company or broker on purchasing adequate insurance for your new vehicle. What is the cost of transferring my vehicle registration? Providing that the licence plate registration is currently valid, the cost to transfer registration to another vehicle is $22.45. If it’s not valid, you’ll need to…

What you need to know about registering your vehicle in Edmonton 

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“Licence and registration, please.”  The last thing you want is to hear this sentence from a police officer while driving an unregistered vehicle, an offence that can cost you a minimum fine of $230. Registering your car is required by law in Alberta. We break down what you need to know about vehicle registry in Edmonton to make the process smooth and easy to understand.  What is vehicle registration? Car registration includes paying a fee to the province you live in and allows the province to keep track of the vehicles driven by its residents. The registration is meant to…

Smog test for Alberta vehicle registration: What you need to know

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Smog test laws vary depending on where you live. In Canada, Ontario is the only province with mandatory emissions testing for vehicles. Smog tests help officials identify cars that release excessive emissions. Failing a smog test means that you’ll need to bring your vehicle in for necessary repairs to be approved for registration renewal.  [caption id="attachment_1044" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Vehicle registration renewal process[/caption] Do I need a smog test in Alberta to renew my vehicle registration? No, you do not need a smog test in Alberta. All new vehicles are required to meet Environment Canada’s emissions standards, which states that your…

Documents you need for a marriage licence registration

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In Alberta, you need a marriage licence for your marriage to be valid. It shows that both you and your partner have met the legal requirements to be married. Once you’ve obtained a marriage licence from your local registry, you can move forward in hiring a certified officiant to perform the ceremony.  What to expect when applying for a marriage licence Alberta marriage licences are available at your local registry and is a 2-part document (Registration of Marriage and Marriage Licence). The full legal document must be given to your marriage officiant.  What documents do you need to apply for…

Why a birth certificate is important in Alberta

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A birth certificate provides a person with a legal identity and establishes residency. It is an important document that details a person’s: Name Date of birth Place of birth Gender Registration Number Registration Date A birth certificate with added parentage also includes: Name of parent(s) Birthplace of the parent(s) While the primary purpose of a birth certificate in Alberta is to identify a person, it’s often required to apply for other important documents. We detail below why a birth certificate is a valuable piece of paper at several points through a person’s life. Access to healthcare In Canada, a birth…

What is a Raffle Licence and Do I Need One?

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If your organization is planning to run a raffle during an event, there is some key information to know about the raffle licence application process to help protect you and your group. Before you head to your nearest registry office in Edmonton, take a look at this guide that Riverbend Registry put together to help you prepare for your raffle licence application. What is considered a raffle? By definition, a raffle is any lottery scheme where ticket purchases pay for a chance to win a prize. If you’re organizing the following, a raffle licence is needed: • 50/50 • Sports…

Do I Need a Special Licence to Drive an RV or Motorhome?

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You’ve purchased a brand new RV and are excited to get it on the road for new adventures. Or maybe you’re planning a trip and are looking to rent an RV or motorhome. The question is - do you need a special licence to drive an RV in Canada? In general, you can drive an RV or motorhome in all provinces with a standard driver's licence. You don’t need any special licence to operate a motorhome. With that said, depending on the weight of the vehicle, there are some specific RV licence requirements to keep in mind. Check-in with one…