Owning a classic campervan, such as a T2 Split Screen, T2 Bay Window, Bedford Dormobile, Ford Transit or Commer Dormobile, to name but a few, is about far more than nostalgia. Alongside the character and charm, classic campervans can benefit from several UK regulatory exemptions, which can reduce running costs and make Classic Campervan more appealing to prospective first-time buyers. However, these exemptions are often misunderstood and come with important conditions. In this guide, we’ll explain which regulations classic campervans may be exempt from, how those exemptions work, and what this means for insurance.
Jump to:
What Counts as a Classic or Historic Campervan?
MOT Exemption – What Does It Really Mean?
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) – Road Tax Exemption Explained
Low Emission Zones and ULEZ. How are Classics Treated?
How does Insurance fit in with Classic Exemptions?
Modifications, Declarations and Staying Compliant
Summary – Enjoy the Benefits, Understand the Responsibilities
What Counts as a Classic or Historic Campervan?
In UK legislation, the key milestone for a campervan becoming “historic” is 40 years old, calculated on a rolling basis. This definition is set by the DVLA and applies to many older vehicles, including classic VW campervans.
However, the term classic is not always the same as historic. A campervan may be widely regarded as a classic by enthusiasts and insurers long before it qualifies as historic for tax or MOT purposes. From a regulatory perspective, historic status is what unlocks exemptions, not popularity or rarity.
Crucially, age alone is not enough. The vehicle must broadly retain its original design and structure. Camper conversions carried out when the vehicle was new, or using period-correct components, are usually acceptable. Significant modern alterations may affect eligibility, which is why understanding the next sections is so important.
MOT Exemption – What Does It Really Mean?
Many classic campervans over 40 years old qualify for MOT exemption, but this does not mean they are exempt from safety standards. To qualify, the campervan must not have undergone substantial changes in the last 30 years.
Substantial changes typically refer to major modifications to:
• The chassis or monocoque body
• Axles or suspension design
• Steering systems
• Engine type or power output
For VW campervans, common and sensible upgrades such as improved brakes, electronic ignition, or sympathetic engine replacements are generally acceptable and do not automatically invalidate MOT exemption. Period-style camper interiors and pop-tops are also unlikely to be an issue.
Even when exempt, the vehicle must remain roadworthy by law. Owners are legally responsible for ensuring brakes, tyres, steering, lights and structure are safe at all times. For this reason, many classic camper owners still choose to have a voluntary MOT, which provides reassurance and a documented safety check that can also support insurance and resale value.
Why compromise on insuring your precious vehicle when we’ll give you £50* if we are not the cheapest.
Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) – Road Tax Exemption Explained
Classic campervans over 40 years old are also eligible for Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) exemption, meaning no road tax is payable. Once eligible, the campervan must be registered as a Historic Vehicle.
It’s important to understand that although the tax cost is £0, you must still apply for tax each year. This keeps the vehicle legally registered and avoids penalties. When purchasing a classic campervan that has recently reached the 40-year threshold, owners may need to update the tax class at a Post Office or directly through the DVLA.
This exemption can make classic campervan ownership significantly more affordable, especially for vehicles that are only used seasonally or for leisure.
Low Emission Zones and ULEZ. How are Classics Treated?
Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) are increasingly common across the UK, particularly in larger cities. These zones usually charge older vehicles that do not meet modern emissions standards.
The good news for classic campervan owners is that vehicles registered in the Historic Vehicle class are generally exempt from ULEZ and LEZ charges, including in London. This exemption recognises the limited use and cultural value of historic vehicles.
For more information on ULEZ Classic vehicle exemption rules, visit Transport for London.
If a campervan does not yet qualify as historic, or is incorrectly registered, charges may still apply. Always check the specific zone requirements before travelling, particularly if your campervan sits close to the 40-year threshold.
How does Insurance fit in with Classic Exemptions?
Even when a campervan is exempt from MOT testing, road tax or emissions charges, insurance remains a legal requirement. In fact, having the right insurance is arguably even more important for classic and historic vehicles.
Specialist classic campervan insurance from Just Kampers Insurance is designed to reflect how these vehicles are used and valued. Unlike standard motor insurance, classic policies can include agreed value cover, ensuring that your campervan’s true worth is recognised if it is stolen or written off.
Many classic campervans are used for holidays, shows and weekends away rather than daily driving. This makes limited mileage policies a popular and cost-effective option. Contents cover can also be tailored to include camper interiors, awnings, accessories and breakdown assistance suited to older vehicles. These options can be explored within the Classic Campervan Insurance area of the Just Kampers Insurance website.
Modifications, Declarations and Staying Compliant
While exemptions can reduce costs, they also increase owner responsibility. Any significant modifications should be carefully considered and declared. Undeclared changes can affect:
• MOT exemption status
• Historic tax eligibility
• Insurance validity
Even if a modification does not remove an exemption, it may still need to be disclosed to your insurer. Transparency ensures that your policy remains valid and that claims are handled fairly.
Luckily, as one of the top VW insurance specialists in the UK, Just Kampers Insurance provide excellent modified camper and car insurance policies at very affordable rates. Our expertise in the modified scene is extensive and comprehensive. Here are some examples of the modifications included in our policies:
• Roof racks and ladders
• Cosmetic changes, including spoilers and body kits
• Racking, storage and interiors
• Adding or removing seats
• Adding or removing windows
• Adding different power supplies, split charge & 240v hook up
• Non-standard alloy wheels
• Audio or entertainment upgrades
• Refrigeration
• Roof-mounted solar panels
• Facelift upgrades
• Engine power upgrades / Remapping
• Paint / Graphics / Body wraps
• Cooking/gas/sink installations
• Fixed roll-out awnings
• Bike racks
• Lowered or raised suspension kits, including air-ride
• Snorkel air intakes
If you want to discuss Modifications Cover with our team, feel free to call 01256 44 45 46 or click on ‘Get A Quote’ to receive an online quote in less than five minutes.
Summary – Enjoy the Benefits, Understand the Responsibilities
Classic campervans can enjoy valuable exemptions from MOT testing, vehicle tax and low-emission charges, but only when they meet specific criteria. These exemptions are designed to support historic vehicles, not remove the obligation to keep them safe and well-maintained.
By understanding the rules, keeping your campervan roadworthy and arranging specialist insurance through Just Kampers Insurance, you can enjoy the freedoms of classic campervan ownership with confidence, compliance and peace of mind.
