Understanding Campervan Road Tax in the UK
If you own a campervan or are planning to convert a van into one, understanding how road tax (officially known as Vehicle Excise Duty or VED) applies is essential. Campervan road tax in the UK is subject to a range of factors including vehicle weight, registration date, CO2 emissions, and classification by the DVLA.
In this guide, we’ll break down how road tax works for campervans, what impacts the cost, and how to ensure you’re paying the correct rate. Whether you drive a classic motorhome or a newly converted camper, this article will help you navigate UK campervan road tax laws confidently.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Tax regulations may change, so please consult the GOV.UK website or the DVLA for the latest updates. The author and publisher are not responsible for any reliance on the information provided.
What Is Road Tax (VED) and How Does It Apply to Campervans?
Road tax, or Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), is a legal requirement for all vehicles driven or parked on public roads in the UK. The amount you pay depends on your vehicle’s emissions, weight, fuel type, and date of first registration.
For campervans, also referred to as motorhomes or motor caravans, the calculation of road tax can differ significantly from cars or vans. Campervan road tax in the UK often depends on whether the vehicle has been officially classified by the DVLA as a motor caravan, which can alter its tax band and result in lower annual costs. Understanding how this classification affects VED is key for all campervan owners.
How Campervans Are Classified for Tax Purposes
The DVLA classifies vehicles based on body type and use. Campervans fall under the classification of “motor caravan” when they meet specific internal and external conversion criteria. To be classified as a motor caravan, the vehicle must be fitted with features like a bed, cooking facilities, and a table, and must look like a campervan externally.
If the DVLA does not accept the conversion, the vehicle may remain registered as a van or panel van, which usually incurs higher road tax. Successfully reclassifying your vehicle as a campervan not only affects VED but can also influence insurance and MOT requirements.
Campervan Road Tax Rates in 2025
Campervan road tax rates in the UK vary depending on when the vehicle was registered. For vehicles registered before 1 March 2001, tax is based on engine size, with those under 1549cc paying less than larger engines. For vehicles registered between 1 March 2001 and 31 March 2017, tax is typically based on CO2 emissions.
However, many campervans fall into the ‘Private/Light Goods’ (PLG) or ‘Private HGV’ tax classes, with flat rates usually around £300-£350 annually. From 1 April 2017, new motorhomes registered with CO2 emissions fall under the standard car VED rates, often leading to higher initial charges. Always check with the DVLA or GOV.UK for the latest rates.
Road Tax for Self-Built and Converted Campervans
If you’ve converted a van into a campervan, you may be eligible to reclassify it with the DVLA to benefit from lower road tax. However, in recent years, the DVLA has tightened its criteria, particularly concerning the external appearance of the vehicle. If your conversion doesn’t meet all the criteria, it may remain taxed as a panel van, which usually costs more in VED.
Despite a full internal conversion, failing to meet external visual standards (e.g., windows, graphics) may result in the DVLA rejecting the reclassification. It’s crucial to document the conversion and submit accurate photos and paperwork when applying.
Motorhome vs Campervan: Are There Tax Differences?
While the terms ‘motorhome’ and ‘campervan’ are often used interchangeably, there can be tax differences depending on the vehicle’s size, weight, and classification. Generally, smaller campervans may fall into the PLG category, attracting a flat annual rate. Larger motorhomes, especially those over 3,500kg, may be classed as ‘Private HGV’, which can sometimes result in a slightly lower VED.
The tax band assigned by the DVLA depends on whether your vehicle is registered as a ‘motor caravan’ and its gross weight. Understanding this distinction is important for budgeting and ensuring compliance with UK road tax laws.
Weight and Size Matters: How Tax Bands Change Based on Vehicle Specs
In the UK, your campervan’s weight and size can influence which road tax band it falls into. Vehicles under 3,500kg are typically taxed under the PLG (Private Light Goods) category, while those over 3,500kg are often considered Private HGVs. Heavier vehicles may benefit from slightly lower road tax compared to smaller, emissions-based taxed campervans.
It’s essential to check your vehicle’s Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) as listed on your V5C document. Weight also affects other legal requirements, such as speed limits and MOT rules, so accurate classification is critical for both road tax and overall compliance.
Additional Costs: SORN, Late Penalties, and Road Tax Refunds
If you’re not using your campervan for an extended period, you can register it as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) to avoid paying road tax. This is especially useful during the winter months. However, if your road tax expires and you haven’t declared SORN, you could face fines of up to £80.
Persistent failure to tax your vehicle may result in prosecution and even vehicle clamping. If you sell your campervan or scrap it, you can apply for a refund of the unused road tax. The refund is issued automatically when the DVLA receives notification of sale or SORN.
How to Tax Your Campervan Online
Taxing your campervan online is straightforward through the GOV.UK website. You’ll need your V11 reminder letter or the 11-digit reference number from your V5C logbook. You can pay for your road tax in full or via monthly Direct Debit.
If your vehicle has changed classification, ensure this is updated with the DVLA before attempting to tax it, as it may affect the rate. The online system will automatically display the correct amount of road tax due based on your vehicle’s current tax class, ensuring that you’re paying the appropriate rate.
Tips for Reducing Your Campervan Road Tax
There are a few practical steps to potentially reduce the amount of road tax you pay on your campervan. First, ensure your vehicle is correctly classified as a “motor caravan” with the DVLA. Second, consider choosing a base vehicle with lower CO2 emissions if you’re converting from scratch. Third, explore lighter conversions, as vehicles under 3,500kg are generally easier to insure and tax.
Finally, using your campervan seasonally and declaring SORN during off-months can save you money. Always weigh the pros and cons of tax class changes carefully to avoid future complications.
Future Changes to Campervan Road Tax in the UK
Recent years have seen a number of changes to road tax rules for campervans and motorhomes, particularly affecting newly registered vehicles. Following a controversial 2020 VED increase for new motorhomes due to stricter emissions standards, a subsequent government U-turn restored favourable rates for motorhomes built to EU standards.
While no immediate changes are scheduled in 2025, future policies may be influenced by environmental goals, especially for diesel vehicles. Keeping an eye on announcements from HM Treasury and the DVLA will help ensure you’re not caught off guard by tax changes.
FAQs About Campervan Road Tax in the UK
Is road tax cheaper for campervans than vans? Often, yes, if the campervan is correctly classified. Vans typically fall under the LGV tax category, which can be more expensive.
Do electric campervans pay road tax? As of 2025, fully electric vehicles are still exempt, but this will change in 2025 when zero-emissions vehicles begin paying VED.
What if my conversion is rejected by the DVLA? Your vehicle will remain in its previous tax class, likely as a van, which may be more expensive.
How can I check my current tax rate? Use the GOV.UK tax checker by entering your registration number.
Final Thoughts on Campervan Road Tax in the UK
Understanding campervan road tax in the UK is essential for both legal compliance and financial planning. The amount of road tax you pay depends on a mix of factors including classification, weight, registration date, and emissions. If you’re converting a van, aim to meet DVLA motor caravan criteria to access potentially lower rates.
Staying informed about VED changes, using SORN wisely, and ensuring your documentation is accurate can all help save money. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or full-time van-lifer, managing your road tax correctly ensures smoother travels across the UK.
