Do I Need To Tell DVLA If I Convert A Van?

Dec 27, 2025

Planning a van glow-up? Short answer: yes, you usually need to tell the DVLA if you convert a van. Whether you’re fitting Campervan Conversion Kits or making bigger changes, some modifications affect legality, tax, and insurance. Keep reading to avoid fines, invalid cover, and unwanted surprises.

Notifying the DVLA vs. Reclassifying as a “Motor Caravan”

Notifying the DVLA of changes is not the same as successfully reclassifying a vehicle as a motor caravan. Many van owners notify changes correctly but find the body type remains unchanged.

This distinction often causes confusion during conversions.

White caravan with an orange awning set up on a green campsite, with outdoor seating, flowers and mountains in the background.

Why You Must Declare Major Changes to the V5C Logbook

You must update the V5C if the vehicle’s structure, seating, fuel type, weight, or usage changes. This ensures the DVLA’s records are accurate.

Accurate records help prevent problems with tax, insurance, and vehicle legality later on.

The 2019 Rule Change: Why Most Conversions Are No Longer Reclassified

Since 2019, the DVLA has applied stricter criteria when reclassifying vans as motor caravans. Many conversions now meet internal living requirements but fail external appearance rules.

As a result, reclassification requests are often refused.

Why Your “Body Type” Might Stay as a Panel Van (And Why That’s OK)

Even if your van remains listed as a panel van, it can still be legally converted and insured.
Reclassification is not required for legality.

What matters is that all notifiable changes are declared correctly.

When Notification Is Legally Mandatory

While not all conversions require notification, certain changes must always be reported to the DVLA. These changes affect safety, classification, or taxation.

Changes to Seat Belt Configuration and Number of Seats

Adding or removing seats affects passenger safety. Altering seat belt layouts must always be declared.

Fuel Type Changes and Significant Engine Modifications

Switching fuel types or making major engine modifications changes the vehicle’s technical classification. These changes must be reported to the DVLA.

Altering the Vehicle Weight (Plating and Revenue Weight)

Any modification that affects the vehicle’s weight rating or plated limits must be updated.
This includes changes to payload or overall revenue weight.

White caravan with a striped red and green awning set up on a grassy campsite, with outdoor chairs and trees surrounding the pitch.

How to Apply for “Motor Caravan” Status on Your V5C

If you want to apply for reclassification, both internal and external requirements must be met. Evidence must also be submitted correctly.

The DVLA’s Strict Internal and External Requirements

The DVLA assesses conversions based on fixed living features and external appearance.
Meeting internal criteria alone is not always enough.

Internal Checklist: Fixed Beds, Tables, and Cooking Facilities

Internal features such as fixed beds, tables, seating, and cooking facilities are required.
These features demonstrate that the vehicle is designed for habitation.

External Checklist: High-Tops, Windows, and “Motorhome Graphics”

Externally, the vehicle should clearly resemble a motor caravan.
This often includes windows, a high-top roof, and motorhome-style graphics.

The “V1006” Conversion Checklist: How to Submit Your Evidence

Applicants must complete the V1006 form.
Photographs and supporting documentation are required to show the conversion meets DVLA criteria.

Why Informing Your Insurer Matters More Than the DVLA

Even if DVLA reclassification is not approved, insurers must always be informed.
Insurance disclosure is essential for valid cover.

Insurance Implications of a Van Conversion

Conversions often increase the vehicle’s value.
They also change the risk profile, which affects insurance terms.

Why an “Agreed Value” Policy Is Essential for DIY Builds

An agreed value policy ensures the full cost of your conversion is covered.
This includes labour, materials, and fitted equipment.

Risk of Invalidating Your Policy by Not Declaring Modifications

Failing to declare modifications can invalidate insurance entirely.
This applies even if the DVLA has been notified.

White motorhome with a grey awning set up on a green field, with people relaxing and children playing outdoors.

Benefits of Official Reclassification (If You Can Get It)

Although not essential, reclassification can offer practical benefits.
These benefits vary depending on how the vehicle is used.

Speed Limit Differences for Motor Caravans vs. Goods Vehicles

Motor caravans often benefit from higher speed limits on certain roads.
This depends on vehicle weight and classification.

Potential Savings on MOT Fees and European Ferry Crossings

Some ferry operators and testing schemes apply different pricing to motor caravans.
This can result in cost savings over time.