Camper regulations: what you need to know when building a camper or expedition vehicle

When is a vehicle officially considered a camper for RDW?

Many builders start with layout, insulation, and technical systems. That is understandable. Still, it is important to take legal requirements into account from the beginning. This prevents adjustments later and helps ensure a safe and approved vehicle.

If you are building a camper in the Netherlands and want to register it as a motorhome, the vehicle must be inspected by the RDW. During this inspection, the focus is on the modifications made for living purposes. 

But when is a vehicle officially considered a camper? The RDW sets clear requirements for the interior. Your vehicle must include at least two seats, a table (which may be removable), sleeping places for two people, cooking facilities, and storage space. All of these must be properly integrated into the living area. The entire interior must be securely fixed so that nothing can shift while driving. Details matter. Sharp edges around seating areas must be finished properly, such as table edges, window frames, and worktops.

Tax requirements for campers: what to consider when converting a vehicle

The Dutch Tax Authority sets additional requirements for campers if you want to qualify for the reduced motor vehicle tax rate. These requirements are often stricter than those of the RDW. You can only apply after RDW approval, and you must submit details such as the vehicle weight and photos of the interior.

The camper must have a fixed and usable living space with minimum interior dimensions of approximately 200 cm in length, 170 cm in height, and 90 cm in width. If the standing height is lower, this may be resolved with a permanently installed elevating roof. The interior must include at least two seats with a table, sleeping facilities with defined minimum dimensions, a fixed kitchen unit with sink and tap, and at least two lockable storage compartments. All elements must be permanently installed.

In practice, if your vehicle meets these requirements, it will usually also pass the RDW inspection. Keep in mind that converting a van into a camper often involves paying BPM, depending on the age and specification of the vehicle. Since 2026, approved campers benefit from a reduced road tax rate, making it worthwhile to approach the process carefully.

Road tax for campers in 2026

Since 2026, campers in the Netherlands benefit from a reduced motor vehicle tax rate. Camper owners pay 50% of the standard passenger car rate, provided the vehicle is officially registered as a camper with the RDW. The exact amount still depends on factors such as vehicle weight, fuel type, and province.

If you do not use your camper year-round, it can be financially beneficial to suspend the registration temporarily. During this period, no road tax is due and the APK inspection requirement is paused, as long as the vehicle is not used on public roads. Many owners plan their usage accordingly or choose to rent out their camper to offset costs.
 

Paying BPM when converting a van into a camper

If you convert a panel van into a camper, BPM usually becomes part of the process. Once the RDW approves the vehicle as a motorhome and it is registered as a passenger vehicle (M1), you are required to file a BPM declaration.

This tax only applies to the vehicle itself. That includes the chassis and any factory-fitted options supplied by the manufacturer or importer, such as air conditioning, cruise control, or a reversing camera. The camper conversion itself, including furniture, electrical systems, and insulation, is not included in the BPM calculation.

There are a few important exceptions. Campers that are 17.5 years old or older are exempt from BPM. The same applies to vehicles with 0 gram CO2 emissions, such as fully electric vans. In some cases, BPM may also have been paid already by a previous private owner. Even then, it remains important to submit a BPM declaration.

Weight and driving licence

The weight of a van is a key factor when converting it into a camper. It determines not only how much you can build in, but also which driving licence is required. Vehicles up to 3,500 kg can be driven with a standard B licence. For vehicles between 3,500 and 7,500 kg, a C1 licence is required. There are plans at European level to raise the B licence limit to 4,250 kg, but it is unclear when this will be implemented in the Netherlands.

When planning your build, it is important to look at the base weight of the vehicle and the limits listed on the registration: kerb weight, maximum authorised mass (MAM), and technical maximum mass. Choosing a vehicle with a lower base weight gives you more margin for the interior, passengers, and equipment. Always verify these figures through an RDW check to ensure your build stays within legal limits.

For expedition vehicles, total weight adds up quickly. Consider the weight of the body, interior, water tanks, fuel, and accessories such as spare wheels or roof racks. Exceeding axle load limits can result in fines or rejection during inspection.

Any modifications to the chassis or frame must be carried out properly. Structural changes can affect approval and must meet technical standards to ensure the vehicle remains safe and road legal.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended to guide you, but does not constitute legal advice. Always verify the current requirements yourself and contact the RDW or the Dutch Tax Authority if in doubt.