Specific Drivers Licence for driving a

[one56day]

I am interested in purchasing for our home a 1933 Seagrave or a 1946-47 American LaFrance open air fire trucks, or a similiar parade vehicle.

Can anyone tell me would I need a special drivers license in New York to drive these type trucks? they are either 8 or 16 passengers. One vechicle that I saw and liked weighted 8800 lbs. My intentions are to drive the trucks to local orphanages and take the kids out for rides. Do I need to put in seat belts in the back seats, which I would do anyway, however I wanted to know if it is is illeagle to drive without them.

Any idea where I can locate vechiles such as these?

Thanking you in advance!

[acseventy]

Keep your eye on e-bay, I have seen a few pop up from time to time.

[tomwnh]

First it does not matter how much the truck weighs, it's the GVW that is going to determine if you need a CDL. If I'm not mistaken, if it is over 26,000 GVW you will need a class B CDL.

If you plan on driving children around make sure you have lots of insurance. A few months ago up here in NH a Cub Scout was killed that fell under the wheels of a small trailer he was riding on in a parade. I'd hate to have that happen to anyone but imagine the law suit that will be.

If NY is like any other state seat belts are required for anyone riding in a moving vehicle. Why would a fire truck used the way you are considering be any different.

[TFMBob]

If NY is like any other state seat belts are required for anyone riding in a moving vehicle.

Yes, "seat belts are required for anyone riding in a moving vehicle," however...NOT REQUIRED in a lousy school bus. WHAT! Better yet, the motorcycle cop who gives the driver a $200 ticket for non-compliance...isn't wearing one either. WHAT! I was born at night...but not last night!