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Regulations & Safety

Important information about regulations, inspections and safety requirements for your camper van conversion in the Netherlands.

The information below covers Dutch regulations for camper van conversions.

This information is indicative and not an official source. Always consult the RDW, Tax Authority or an approved inspection station for current rules.

Last updated: August 2026

RDW inspection (individual approval)

When converting a van into a motorhome, you must apply for individual approval from the RDW (Dutch Vehicle Authority). This is mandatory if you want the vehicle registered as a 'motorhome'.

  • 1The inspection takes place at an RDW inspection station. You book an appointment online via rdw.nl.
  • 2The vehicle must comply with the Vehicle Regulations and European directives.
  • 3Required facilities: fixed sleeping area, cooking facility, table, seating and storage space.
  • 4All fixtures must be permanently and securely attached.
  • 5Current inspection rates are published on rdw.nl. Budget for additional costs if the vehicle does not pass on the first attempt.

BPM & taxes

A commercial van (grey plates) with 0% BPM loses this benefit when re-registered as a motorhome. The tax implications are significant.

  • 1Re-registration from commercial vehicle to motorhome revokes the BPM exemption.
  • 2The amount of BPM to be reclaimed depends on the original catalogue value and age of the vehicle.
  • 3Since 1 January 2026 a motorhome pays the half rate of road tax: 50% of the passenger car rate. Up to and including 2025 this was the quarter rate.
  • 4Consult the Tax Authority or a BPM specialist for an exact calculation.
  • 5Note: rules change frequently. Always check the most current information.
Calculate your BPM →

Weight limits

The permitted payload is a hard limit. Overloading is dangerous and punishable.

  • 1Check the maximum permitted weight (GVW) on the registration certificate or with the RDW.
  • 2Subtract the kerb weight from the GVW for your available payload.
  • 3Account for passengers (75 kg per person) and luggage.
  • 4A camper conversion typically adds 300–600 kg to the kerb weight.
  • 5Overloading is a punishable offence. The fine increases with the percentage by which you exceed the limit.
Use the Weight Calculator →

Gas installation requirements

A gas installation in a motorhome must meet strict safety standards.

  • 1The installation must comply with NEN-EN 1949 (gas installations in leisure vehicles).
  • 2Gas bottles must be stored in a ventilated compartment with drainage to the outside.
  • 3A pressure regulator and gas hose must be inspected and not expired.
  • 4Recommended: a gas detector or leak detection system. This is not a legal requirement.
  • 5A G607 gas inspection is not legally required in the Netherlands. Insurers, storage companies and German campsites do often ask for one.

Electrical installation

Although there is no separate inspection for 12V/24V installations in the Netherlands, safety standards still apply.

  • 1Use cables of the correct thickness (see our Cable Calculator).
  • 2Fuse on every circuit, as close to the battery as possible.
  • 3Lithium batteries (LiFePO4) come with a Battery Management System (BMS) that protects the cells against over- and undervoltage.
  • 4230V installations (shore power/inverter) should be built to the principles of NEN 1010 (Dutch low-voltage installation standard).
  • 5Keep cables away from heat sources and sharp edges.
Use the Cable Calculator →

Insurance

After re-registration your insurance changes. Not all insurers accept self-built motorhomes.

  • 1Always notify your insurer about the conversion before re-registration.
  • 2Some insurers require photos or an appraisal report of the build.
  • 3The interior (fixtures) can be separately insured via a camper inventory insurance.
  • 4Compare providers — premiums vary significantly for self-built campers.