Do You Need to Inform the DVLA When Converting a Van into a Camper?

20 Feb

Why Inform the DVLA About Your Campervan Conversion?

While it's not a legal requirement to notify the DVLA when converting your van into a campervan, doing so offers several benefits:

Lower Insurance Premiums: Campervan insurance can be more affordable than standard van insurance, potentially saving you money.
Cheaper MOT Fees: Reclassified campervans may be subject to different MOT requirements, potentially reducing costs.
Improved Resale Value: Officially recognized campervans can be more attractive to buyers, enhancing resale value.

DVLA Campervan Checklist: Requirements for Reclassification

To have your vehicle reclassified as a campervan (motor caravan) by the DVLA, it must meet specific criteria:

Windows: At least two windows on one side of the main body (excluding driver/passenger doors) to allow natural daylight into the living space.
Separate Door: A separate entrance to the living area (not including driver/passenger doors). A window on this door counts as one of the required windows.
Motor Caravan-Style Graphics: The vehicle should have campervan-style graphics on both sides.
Awning Bar: An awning rail should be fitted to either side of the vehicle.
High-Top Roof: The van should have a high-top roof (excluding pop-top elevating roofs).

For detailed guidance, refer to the official DVLA publication: Converting a vehicle into a motor caravan.

Evidence Required for Your DVLA Application

When applying for reclassification, you need to provide the following:

A completed Motor Caravan Conversion Checklist (V1006).
V5C document showing an applicable body type.
Interior photos showing:
- The bed and table in their usable positions.
- At least two windows providing daylight into the main living space.
Exterior photos from the front, rear, and both sides with visible registration plates.
A photo of the VIN/chassis number stamped on the vehicle’s original chassis or bodyshell.

Important Notes:

On the back of each photograph, write a description of what it shows, the date, and the vehicle registration number.
Photographs are not automatically returned. If you want them back, you must specifically request this in your application.

How to Complete Your Application

Depending on your V5C document:

New-Style V5C (multi-coloured numbered blocks on the cover): Fill in section 1.
Older V5C: Fill in section 7.

For more information on changing vehicle details, visit: Change vehicle details on a V5C registration certificate.

Contact Grizzly Customs Vans

If you have any questions or need assistance with your campervan conversion, feel free to get in touch with Grizzly Customs Vans – we're here to help make your dream campervan a reality!

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