A different class

A local RV dealer is hoping a change in Ontario law will encourage more people to hit the road this summer.

The province has changed license requirements so people wanting to tow a fifth wheel or drive a large motor home no longer need a Class A license, only a G.

Smith’s RV Centre general manager Jason Johnstone said the industry and province have been working together for a couple of years to change the law, which was uncommon throughout North America. Only four provinces and two states in the U.S. have a similar law.

"It will make it more accessible and if things are more accessible and easy to use then obviously that will help our industry and hopefully help us as a business as well," Johnstone said.

Johnstone said Smith’s will be offering a safety course to help customers who have never towed before.

"Therefore we’ll help promote the safety aspect and for those who aren’t comfortable with towing we’ll certainly be happy to help them," he said. "The idea behind it is that the dealers are more active in making sure the consumers are ready to tow a vehicle when or after they make the purchase."

Johnstone said he's had customers in the past who have hesitated in purchasing an RV due Class A licence requirements, which costs two hundred dollars, require medical tests and must be renewed annually.