Navigate the ins and outs of campervan road tax in the UK with our comprehensive 2025 guide, ensuring you’re informed and ready for the open road.
Owning a campervan in the UK offers unparalleled freedom to explore the countryside at your leisure. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility of understanding and complying with road tax regulations. As of 2025, several factors influence the amount of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) you owe, including your campervan’s weight, engine size, registration date, and classification. Let’s delve into the specifics to ensure you’re well-prepared.
Understanding Vehicle Classification
The DVLA classifies vehicles based on their specifications and intended use. For campervans, the classification can significantly impact the road tax rate:
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Private Light Goods Vehicle (PLGV): Campervans weighing under 3,500kg typically fall into this category. The tax rates here are influenced by engine size.
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Private Heavy Goods Vehicle (PHGV): Campervans over 3,500kg are usually classified here, with a flat tax rate regardless of engine size.
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M1SP Category: Some campervans registered between April 1, 2017, and March 31, 2020, fall into this category, where tax is based on CO2 emissions.
2025 Road Tax Rates
Here’s a breakdown of the current rates:
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PLGV (Under 3,500kg):
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Engine size up to 1549cc: £220 annually
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Engine size over 1549cc: £360 annually
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PHGV (Over 3,500kg): £165 annually
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M1SP Category (Registered between April 1, 2017, and March 31, 2020): Rates vary based on CO2 emissions, ranging from £10 to £5,490 in the first year, then a standard rate of £195 from the second year onwards .
Historic Vehicle Exemption
If your campervan was built or first registered more than 40 years ago, you might be eligible for a historic vehicle tax exemption. However, you must still apply for this exemption through the DVLA .
Reclassifying Your Campervan
Converting a van into a campervan? Ensure it meets the DVLA’s criteria for reclassification to benefit from potentially lower tax rates. Requirements include:
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Sleeping accommodation
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Cooking facilities
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Storage facilities
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A seating and dining area
Externally, the vehicle should resemble a traditional campervan. If it doesn’t meet these standards, it may remain classified (and taxed) as a van .
Declaring SORN
Not planning to use your campervan for a while? Declare it as off the road with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) to avoid paying road tax during that period. Remember, you cannot use or park the vehicle on public roads while it’s under SORN .
Paying Your Road Tax
You can pay your road tax:
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Online via the GOV.UK website
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At a local Post Office
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Through Direct Debit for monthly, six-monthly, or annual payments
Ensure you have your V5C registration certificate or the green ‘new keeper’ slip when taxing your vehicle.
