Fundamental changes to the way the DVLA judges whether the vehicle you are converting can be classed as a motorhome have been introduced by the agency this week.

For those who are exploring self-build campervans, it is already possible to change the classification of a vehicle you have bought to “motor caravan” – and so benefit from some tax advantages such a new classification brings.

But from now on if you want do so so, along with filling in the appropriate V1006 form, you have to provide photographic proof that that there are two or more windows on one side of the vehicle (not including the cab windows) to provide a reasonable amount of daylight into the vehicle.

There must also be a door providing access to the living area that is separate from the cab. Any windows in this door can can count as one of the two windows you need to provide evidence of.

You also need to show there is a high top or pop-top roof.

In total, you need to provide external photos showing both sides of the vehicle and the front and back, with registration plates visible.

You also need to provide internal photographs showing seats and a table, any sleeping accommodation (see: our tips on how to make a camper van bed more comfortable), cooking facilities, a storage area, and the two windows.

Finally you need to provide the VIN or chassis number, and your V5C registration, or log book.

Even then, DVLA warns that “there will be certain vehicles whose original frame or outer structure is so distinctive in appearance that the body type description cannot be changed from the initial manufactured design (for example, a bus)”.

In other recent news, visitor numbers have been released for the recent Motorhome and Caravan Show 2026. Despite a slight dip in overall attendees at the show, some of the exhibitors were able to report stronger sales than last year.

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