Note: This article has been last updated on 13/10/2025.
Whether you’ve just bought your first campervan, finished your dream conversion, or are simply planning your next road trip, getting your head around the legal side of things is essential. From insurance and registration to driving licence rules, here’s a straightforward guide to keep your adventures stress-free and compliant.
Can You Drive a Campervan on a Normal Licence?
For most people in the UK, yes, you can drive a standard campervan on your regular car licence (Category B). As long as the vehicle’s maximum authorised mass (MAM) is under 3,500kg, you’re good to go. That covers the majority of factory-built and self-converted vans.
If you passed your test before 1 January 1997, you probably have what’s known as grandfather rights, which allow you to drive heavier vehicles up to 7,500kg. Anyone who passed after that date is limited to 3,500kg unless you’ve taken additional tests for a higher licence category.
It’s worth checking your van’s weight carefully, especially if you’ve added new features or done a conversion, to make sure you stay within your legal limit.
Do I Need to Register My Van as a Campervan?
If you’ve converted a standard panel van, or bought one that’s been modified, you’ll need to re-register it with the DVLA as a motor caravan. This ensures your vehicle is recognised correctly for insurance, MOT, and emissions purposes, and it can save you headaches when it comes to things like ferry bookings or roadside checks.
To qualify, your van must have key features such as a bed, seating, storage, cooking facilities, and windows. Since 2020, the DVLA has tightened up its guidance, meaning your van must look unmistakably like a campervan both inside and out. You’ll need to send in photos showing the full interior and exterior, along with a completed DVLA conversion checklist.
Not registering your conversion isn’t likely to land you in trouble straight away, but it can complicate things later, especially when it comes to insurance claims or MOT renewals. You can find the most up-to-date checklist and details directly on the DVLA website.
Can I Drive a Campervan on My Car Insurance?
In short: not usually. If your campervan is officially registered as a motor caravan, it won’t be covered under a standard car insurance policy. You’ll need specialist campervan insurance, which is designed to protect not just the vehicle itself, but also the fixtures, fittings, and lifestyle that come with it.
If your van is self-converted and not yet registered as a campervan, it’s especially important to tell your insurer about all modifications. Driving with an undeclared conversion could lead to refused claims.
Specialist campervan insurance often comes with extra perks too, like European cover, breakdown assistance, and sometimes even temporary accommodation or hire car options if your van’s in the garage.
Bottom line: never assume your standard car insurance will do the job. Always be upfront about modifications and shop around for a policy that suits how you actually use your van. Whether that’s for weekend getaways, long-term travel, or sharing with friends and family.
Legal Essentials for First-Time Owners
Here’s a quick recap of what to double-check before you set off:
- Make sure your van’s MAM matches your licence category
- Register your conversion as a motor caravan with the DVLA
- Keep a photo record and all paperwork from your conversion
- Tell your insurer about every modification
- Carry proof of MOT, insurance, and DVLA registration when travelling
- Stay on top of DVLA updates as the rules can change
Recent DVLA updates have made it trickier to get a van classified as a motor caravan, especially if the exterior still looks like a regular panel van. Visible features such as side windows, roof conversions, or camper-style graphics can make a big difference to your application.
And with the ongoing boom in staycations, there’s been a surge in campervan ownership. Insurers are busier than ever, so if you’re planning a trip over the holidays, it’s worth sorting your paperwork early.
In Summary
Owning a campervan is a blend of freedom and responsibility – part car, part home, and full of opportunity. Understanding how your licence, registration, and insurance work together means you can travel confidently, safely, and legally.
Before you set off, make sure you’ve got the right cover in place.
QuoteSearcher can help you compare campervan insurance quotes so that you can hit the road knowing you’re fully protected.
