Purchasing or selling a campervan is an exciting venture. Still, it’s essential to understand the legalities correctly to ensure a smooth transition. Whether buying a brand-new Leisuredrive campervan or selling your current one, understanding how to transfer ownership of a campervan and staying updated on road tax changes is crucial. Transfer Ownership of a Campervan & 2025 Road Tax Updates are key topics every campervan owner should be aware of to avoid unnecessary delays or penalties.
Transferring Campervan Ownership in the UK
To begin with, transferring ownership of a campervan in the UK involves notifying the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about the change. This process ensures that the new owner becomes the registered keeper and is responsible for taxing and insuring the vehicle.
Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that both parties retain proof of sale, such as a signed receipt or bill of sale detailing the vehicle’s registration number, sale price, and date. This protects the buyer and seller in case of disputes or queries from the DVLA. Furthermore, ensure the campervan has a valid MOT certificate at sale.
Campervan Ownership & Road Tax For Private Sales
When conducting a private sale, follow these key steps:
-
Complete the V5C Logbook: First, the seller must fill in Section 6 of the V5C (logbook) with the buyer’s details. The buyer should then receive the green “new keeper” slip (V5C/2) as proof of ownership until the new V5C arrives.
-
Notify the DVLA: Next, the seller can inform the DVLA online through the official GOV.UK service using the 11-digit reference number from the V5C. Alternatively, the completed V5C can be mailed to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
-
Tax the Vehicle: Lastly, the buyer must tax the campervan before driving it. This can be done online, by phone, or at a Post Office using the 12-digit reference number from the V5C/2.
For Sales to Dealers or Traders
In contrast, when selling to a dealer or motor trader, the process differs slightly:
-
Complete Section 9 of the V5C: This section is designated explicitly for notifying the DVLA about sales to motor traders. Fill it out with the trader’s details.
-
Send Section 9 to the DVLA: Detach and mail it to the DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
-
Hand Over the Remaining V5C: Finally, give the rest of the V5C to the dealer.
By following these steps, you ensure that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle once it is in the dealer’s possession.
Campervan Ownership & Road Tax: 2025 Road Tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) Updates
As of April 1, 2025, significant changes to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) have been implemented, affecting various vehicle categories, including campervans.
Campervan Ownership & Road Tax: Standard Road Tax Rates
For vehicles registered after April 1, 2017:
-
Standard Rate: £195 annually, applicable to petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric vehicles.
Notably, this change eliminates previous discounts for hybrids and exemptions for electric vehicles.
First-Year Rates Based on CO Emissions
In the first year, VED is determined by the vehicle’s CO emissions:
-0g/km: £10 1–50g/km: £110 – 51–75g/km: £135 -76–90g/km: £160 -91–100g/km: £180 -101–110g/km: £220 -111–130g/km: £270
-131–150g/km: £305 -151–170g/km: £645 -171–190g/km: £1,040 -191–225g/km: £1,565 -226–255g/km: £2,220 -Over 255g/km: £2,745
These updated rates aim to encourage the adoption of low-emission vehicles.
Expensive Car Supplement
In addition, vehicles with a list price over £40,000 are subject to an extra £425 annual charge for five years, starting from the second year of registration. This supplement applies to all fuel types, including electric vehicles.
Motorhome-Specific Rates on Campervan Ownership & Road Tax
When it comes to campervans and motorhomes, the following VED categories apply:
-
Private or Light Goods (TC11): Vehicles up to 3,500kg revenue weight are taxed based on engine size:
-
Not over 1549cc: £220 annually
-
Over 1549cc: £360 annually
-
-
Private Heavy Goods Vehicles (PHGV): Motorhomes over 3,500kg are taxed at a flat rate of £165 annually.
Remember that conversions or modifications to a campervan may change how it is classified and taxed. Therefore, it’s essential to notify the DVLA if the vehicle’s body type or use has changed—for example, from a van to a motorhome. This ensures correct taxation and insurance.
Moreover, owners of classic motorhomes (over 40 years old) can apply for a VED exemption, though an application is required to benefit from this.
Final Thoughts on Transfer Ownership of a Campervan & 2025 Road Tax Updates
In conclusion, any campervan enthusiast must navigate the transfer of campervan ownership and understand the latest road tax changes. At Leisuredrive, we prioritise keeping our customers informed and compliant with current regulations. Whether you’re purchasing a new campervan or selling your existing one, we’re here to assist every step of the way.
For more information or assistance, contact our team or visit our showroom. Safe travels!
