So, you have a van that looks and feels like a camper, but what does the DVLA say it actually is? The answer matters more than you might think. It can affect your insurance policy, your MOT schedule, your speed limits, and even how much road tax you pay. Yet many campervan owners are not quite sure what classification their vehicle falls under; or how to change it if needed.
The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) assigns each vehicle a classification based on how it is built and what it is used for. This is noted in the V5C logbook under 'Body Type' and 'Vehicle Category'. For campervans, the ideal goal is to be classed as a 'Motor Caravan'. Sounds simple, but there are a few hoops to jump through first.
Not being correctly classified could mean:
There have been cases where owners were stopped in Europe because the logbook still said 'van', despite it clearly being fitted out as a motorhome. Sorting it in advance saves stress, and can even lower your insurance premium.
To reclassify your vehicle as a 'Motor Caravan', you must meet certain visual and functional standards. The DVLA is picky; this is not just about having a bed and a cooker.
Your vehicle must have:
But even if your camper ticks those boxes inside, the DVLA now insists the outside must also 'look like a motor caravan'. That includes features like:
Without these, they may keep it logged as a 'van with windows', even if it is fully kitted out inside.
You will need to send the DVLA:
DVLA reviews each application manually, so it can take several weeks. If they approve it, they will send you a new V5C showing the new body type.
Rejections are common. One owner converted a Transit with a bed, sink and cooker, only to be told it still looked too much like a work van. Their solution? A set of vinyl graphics and a high-top addition - and on resubmission, success.
If the DVLA refuses to change your classification, you can still insure the vehicle as a campervan with the right provider. Some insurers accept internal spec over logbook labels, but not all do; so double-check.
Self-built conversions are eligible for reclassification too - but be aware that 'home-built' vehicles may face closer scrutiny, especially if done on a budget. Keep records, take photos during the build, and retain receipts for any installed items. It all helps build your case.
Most specialist insurers understand the grey area between 'van with windows' and fully recognised 'motor caravan'. Still, you must be honest. Say it is a campervan even if the logbook disagrees; because misrepresentation can invalidate claims.
When weighing one insurer's quote against another, make sure you:
A properly classified 'motor caravan' is treated like a car in terms of UK speed limits, which means:
A 'van with windows', by contrast, may be subject to commercial van limits - 10mph less across the board.
Getting your vehicle correctly classified as a campervan is more than a formality. It opens the door to fairer insurance pricing, simpler MOTs, and fewer headaches on your travels. Whilst the DVLA process can be a bit bureaucratic, it is worth the effort; especially if you plan to travel regularly or take your camper abroad.
Already converted your van or thinking about buying one? Make sure the paperwork matches reality. And if you are arranging cover, getting quotes based on your exact setup helps ensure proper protection right from the start.
To reclassify your vehicle as a 'Motor Caravan', you must meet certain visual and functional standards. The DVLA is picky; this is not just about having a bed and a cooker.
Your vehicle must have:
But even if your camper ticks those boxes inside, the DVLA now insists the outside must also 'look like a motor caravan'. That includes features like:
Without these, they may keep it logged as a 'van with windows', even if it is fully kitted out inside.
You will need to send the DVLA:
DVLA reviews each application manually, so it can take several weeks. If they approve it, they will send you a new V5C showing the new body type.
Rejections are common. One owner converted a Transit with a bed, sink and cooker, only to be told it still looked too much like a work van. Their solution? A set of vinyl graphics and a high-top addition, and on resubmission, success.
If the DVLA refuses to change your classification, you can still insure the vehicle as a campervan with the right provider. Some insurers accept internal spec over logbook labels, but not all do, so double-check.
Self-built conversions are eligible for reclassification too - but be aware that 'home-built' vehicles may face closer scrutiny, especially if done on a budget. Keep records, take photos during the build, and retain receipts for any installed items. It all helps build your case.
Most specialist insurers understand the grey area between 'van with windows' and fully recognised 'motor caravan'. Still, you must be honest. Say it is a campervan even if the logbook disagrees, because misrepresentation can invalidate claims.
When running a side-by-side comparison of insurance quotes, make sure you:
A properly classified 'motor caravan' is treated like a car in terms of UK speed limits, which means:
A 'van with windows', by contrast, may be subject to commercial van limits, 10mph less across the board.
Getting your vehicle correctly classified as a campervan is more than a formality. It opens the door to fairer insurance pricing, simpler MOTs, and fewer headaches on your travels. Whilst the DVLA process can be a bit bureaucratic, it is worth the effort - especially if you plan to travel regularly or take your camper abroad.
Already converted your van or thinking about buying one? Make sure the paperwork matches reality. And if you are arranging cover, getting quotes based on your exact setup helps ensure proper protection right from the start.
