What's Changing
DVLA's motor caravan guidance now accepts a pop-top roof. The guidance sets out what DVLA expects to see before it changes the body type on your V5C (log book) to motor caravan, and DVLA updated it on 19 October 2026, along with the V1006 conversion checklist.
The previous version, last updated in August 2020, said a high-top roof didn't include a pop-top elevating roof. It also listed motor caravan-style graphics on both sides and an awning bar. Neither is in the current list. The external features DVLA now looks for are:
- 2 or more windows on at least one side of the main body, not counting the driver and passenger door windows
- a separate door into the living area
- a high-top roof or a pop-top elevating roof
The old guidance also only took vehicles whose V5C already showed certain body types, such as a panel van, Luton van or minibus. That list has gone, and DVLA now considers all applications. Some vehicles still look so distinctive that the body type can't change, a bus for example.
Motor Caravan V5c Rules: Then And Now
What DVLA's guidance said before and after the 19 October 2026 update.
| BeforeGuidance updated 7 August 2020 | NowGuidance updated 19 October 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | High-top roof, not a pop-top elevating roof | High-top roof or pop-top elevating roof |
| Graphics | Motor caravan-style graphics on both sides listed | Not in the list |
| Awning bar | Awning bar on either side listed | Not in the list |
| Starting body type | Only certain V5C body types, such as panel van, Luton van or minibus | No set list. DVLA considers all applications |
From DVLA's guidance on converting a vehicle into a motor caravan, current and archived (UK Government Web Archive) versions.
When It Starts And Who It Affects
The new guidance applies from DVLA's update on 19 October 2026. It affects you if you've converted a van or similar vehicle into a motorhome and want your V5C to show motor caravan.
If DVLA turned down your motor caravan application before, you can reapply, because DVLA says its policy has recently changed. A new GOV.UK form, published on 19 October 2026, also lets you ask DVLA to review a rejected motorhome body type application.
For a review, you'll need the registered name and address, the registration number and an image of the latest V5C. DVLA decides on the evidence you sent before. If it's accepted, DVLA issues a V5C showing the amended body type. If not, your V5C stays as it is.
What It Means For Your Motorhome Insurance
DVLA says the body type doesn't affect your vehicle's insurance category. The body type on the record only has to describe what the vehicle looks like in traffic, and it doesn't change speed limits or other legal requirements either.
Your insurance is a separate question, and DVLA's guidance doesn't say what insurers need to know. So ask your insurer whether they need to hear about the conversion or the V5C change. You can compare motorhome insurance quotes when you're ready.
You can still use the vehicle as a motor caravan without the body type change, as long as you're satisfied it has the required internal features. Those are seats and a table, somewhere to sleep, cooking facilities and storage, all fixed to the living area. The table can be removable.
What To Do Now
- Check the outside. Make sure the vehicle has the windows, the separate door and the high-top or pop-top roof.
- Gather the evidence. You need a completed V1006 checklist, interior photos of each required feature with the bed and table in use, exterior photos from the front, both sides and rear with the plates visible, and a photo of the VIN or chassis number plate. On the back of each photo, write what it shows, the date and the registration.
- Send it to DVLA. Fill in section 1 of a new-style V5C, or section 7 of an older one, and send it with your evidence to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
- Be ready for an inspection. DVLA may inspect the vehicle. It pays for the inspection but not for getting the vehicle there, and if the vehicle can't be inspected, the application is refused.
- Reapply or ask for a review. If you were turned down before, reapply, or use the review form.
- Watch the payload. The fitted equipment adds weight and cuts the payload, so the vehicle still has to carry passengers, luggage and full water tanks without being overloaded.
- Keep your records. If you sell later, it's your job as the registered keeper to show the conversion was done safely.
- Ask your insurer. Check whether they need to know about the conversion or the new body type.
FAQs
Can A Pop-Top Campervan Be Changed To Motor Caravan On The V5C?
It can now. DVLA's guidance, updated on 19 October 2026, lists a high-top roof or a pop-top elevating roof as an external feature, alongside the side windows and a separate living area door. The old version said a pop-top didn't count.
Does The V5C Body Type Affect My Motorhome Insurance?
Not the insurance category, DVLA says. The body type only describes what the vehicle looks like in traffic. Whether your insurer needs to know about the conversion is a separate question, so ask them.
Can I Reapply If DVLA Rejected My Motorhome Application?
Yes. DVLA says you can reapply because its policy has recently changed. You can also use the new GOV.UK form to ask DVLA to review the decision, based on the evidence you sent before.
