Let’s be honest — the DVLA’s checklist for turning your van into a ‘motor caravan’ feels like it was scribbled out during a lunch break in the ’90s and somehow became gospel. The obsession with stickers and side windows? It’s like they made it up as they went along. Still, if you want that shiny logbook update, here’s what you’re up against:
Your van needs to cosplay as a campervan. Seriously:
- Windows: Stick two on one side (driver and passenger doors don’t count). These need to be clearly visible from the outside and must be actual windows, not vents or decorative panels.
The DVLA doesn’t explain why two windows matter, but the assumption is that it visually sets the van apart from a tradesperson’s vehicle
Why? No idea. Just nod, smile, and get cutting. - Roof: The DVLA expects a fixed high-top roof to help clearly distinguish the van externally as a motor caravan. Pop-top or elevating roofs, like those commonly found on VW T5 or T6 conversions, are often rejected because they’re not considered a permanent structural change.
That said, some pop-top owners have successfully had their vans reclassified — but only if the rest of the criteria is absolutely nailed and the pop-top is well-integrated into the conversion. So no, a T5 isn’t automatically disqualified — but you’ll need to go above and beyond on the rest of the checklist to stand a chance. - Graphics: Decals that vaguely communicate, “I holiday in this, officer.” Think swooshes, mountains, sunsets—not “Live, Laugh, Love.”
Inside, pretend you’re furnishing a prison cell:
- Sleeping Area: The DVLA requires a dedicated sleeping area which can either be permanently fixed or convertible from other furniture (such as a bench seat that turns into a bed). It must be clearly identifiable and suitable for adult use. Bolting it in place helps demonstrate permanence, which the DVLA sees as a key marker of an intentional campervan conversion. For example, a fold-out bed securely fixed to the van structure would meet the criteria, while a removable mattress on the floor likely wouldn’t..
- Cooking Facilities: Must be permanently bolted down. Those £12 Temu specials that hook up to a propane bottle? Nope. DVLA isn’t impressed by your bargain-bin butane blaster. They want something fixed, stable, and ideally not capable of sliding across the floor mid-brew. Think built-in hob, not fold-out fire hazard
- Storage: Cupboards need to be permanently fixed to the van’s structure — no rattling IKEA boxes bungee-corded to your wheel arch. Think proper cabinetry that could take a corner at speed without launching its contents across the van. DVLA wants to see fixtures that look built-in, not like an afterthought from your garage clear-out.
Pro tip: Photograph absolutely everything. The DVLA’s as suspicious as a jealous partner—they need receipts.
2. The “Pros” (Or: How to Feel Smug for 5 Minutes)
Alright, let’s say you’ve jumped through the hoops. What’s in it for you?
- Speed limits: If your van’s under 3.05 tonnes, you can legally do 70mph on motorways instead of 60mph. Finally, a way to overtake caravans without muttering “bloody caravans”.
- Insurance: Some companies might toss you a discount. Others will see your DIY wiring and charge you extra for “arsonist vibes.” (see does vanlife contents insurance exist)
- Resale value: Buyers love a DVLA stamp. It’s like a blue tick for vans – basic, but it shuts up the doubters.
But here’s the truth: ferry discounts and toll savings are as mythical as a warm British bank holiday.
3. The Cons (Or: Why You Might Just Say “Sod It”)
DVLA registration is like assembling IKEA furniture drunk:
- 80% rejection rate. Why? Maybe your decals weren’t “festive” enough. Maybe the inspector hates your curtains. The rules are vaguer than a politician’s promise.
- Time sink: You’ll spend weeks gathering photos, forms, and patience. Then wait 2 months for a “maybe.”
- Insurance Ambiguity: Most insurers don’t care about the V5C. They’ll judge your conversion like a Bake Off technical – “Is that wiring… deliberate?”
Real talk: Most van lifers I know just… don’t bother. They insure it as a camper, slap on some decals, and pray. Works 90% of the time.
4. Why Bother? (Or: When to Embrace the Chaos)
You’ll want DVLA approval if:
- You’re a rule-follower (bless you).
- You plan to sell the van later (people love paperwork).
- You enjoy arguing with bureaucrats (masochist).
Otherwise? Save the effort for something useful. Like figuring out why your diesel heater sounds like a dying badger.
5. The Unofficial Workaround (Don’t Tell Anyone)
Can’t be arsed with the DVLA? Here’s the van life secret menu:
- Insure it as a camper with a specialist (e.g., Brentacre – this is not an endorsement). They’ll ask for photos of your build, not a V5C.
- Stick on some decals and call it a day. Police aren’t DVLA enforcers – they just want to see a bed and a stove.
- Avoid weighing stations. If your van’s over 3.5 tonnes, you’re playing Need for Speed: Layby Edition
- Disclaimer: This post is not legal advice — just one van nerd’s experience navigating DVLA red tape. Always check official guidance before you start drilling holes in your van.
Final Thought
The DVLA’s campervan rules are like a pub quiz: arbitrary, frustrating, and designed to make you feel stupid. Nail it if you’ve got the patience of a saint. Otherwise, crack a beer, ignore the paperwork, and focus on what matters: making sure your roof doesn’t leak.
Need more chaos? Check out my guide to why 12V fridges are better than coolers (spoiler: they’re not, but they make you look posh).
| Resource | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| DVLA Motor Caravan Guidance | Official DVLA page outlining the requirements to register a vehicle as a motor caravan | Visit Page |
| DVLA Conversion Checklist (V1006) | Downloadable checklist outlining specific interior and exterior criteria | Download PDF |
| Vehicle Type Approval Guidance | General guidance on vehicle modifications and when approval may be needed | Visit Page |
| Update Your V5C Log Book | Where to go if your reclassification is accepted and you need to update your V5C | Visit Page |
