The camper road tax changed on January 1, 2026. Owners of a campervan can take advantage of a special rate. This means you'll pay less motor vehicle tax, provided your vehicle meets the official requirements.
In this article, you can read about the rules, when the half rate applies, and how to correctly apply for camper road tax.
When are you eligible for a special rate for camper road tax?
What is a camper according to the Tax Authorities?
For the camper road tax, a camper is considered a passenger car that:
- has an indoor space equipped for the transport and accommodation of persons
- has a permanent cooking facility
- has a permanent sleeping accommodation
- meets the design requirements that have been in effect since May 1, 2002
Only if your vehicle meets these conditions can you benefit from the reduced road tax rate for camper vans.
Please note: simply marking the vehicle as "campervan" on the vehicle registration certificate is not automatically sufficient. The vehicle's interior must actually meet legal requirements.
Half-rate camper road tax from 2026
From quarter rate to half rate
Until 2025, many motorhomes were subject to a quarter rate. This changed to a half rate on January 1, 2026. This means you will now pay 50 percent of the regular motor vehicle tax.
The new rate will take effect from the first full period in 2026 in which you are liable for camper road tax.
Example: If your period runs from December 5, 2025, to March 4, 2026, you'll still pay the quarter rate for that period. From March 5, 2026, the half rate applies.
You can calculate your exact amount using the Tax Authorities' Motor Vehicle Tax calculation tool.
Apply for camper road tax
If you want to take advantage of the special rate for camper road tax, you must apply for it yourself. You can do so using the "Request for Motor Vehicle Tax Special Rate" form or by letter.
Applications within 30 days
Are you registering a motorhome in your name with the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority)? Then it's important to submit the request within 30 days. If you meet all the requirements, the special rate will apply retroactively from the date the vehicle is registered in your name.
If you submit this request later than 30 days, the half-rate will apply from the date your request is received.
Practically arranged: administration and safety
Besides camper road tax, it's wise to take care of other matters as well, such as clear records of usage and costs. For entrepreneurs or business drivers, accurate trip logging can be important.
Security also plays a role in campers. A camper often represents a high value and is often left unused for extended periods. With a camper tracker You can track your vehicle's location and intervene more quickly in the event of theft. It's also interesting for campers to view complete routes.
Summary
The camper road tax has changed from a quarter rate to a half rate since 2026. You will only be eligible for the special rate if your camper meets the design requirements and you submit your application on time. Therefore, carefully check that your vehicle meets all the requirements and submit your application on time.