You’ve seen the photos: Someone’s feet up on the dashboard, the wind in their hair, a map unfolded on the passenger seat. They’re living in their van, traveling the country, and going wherever the wind blows them. For many, this dream is more than just a fantasy; it’s a reality. But is it legal? The answer to this question is not as simple as you might think.
In the spectrum of new-age nomad lifestyles, van life is less recognized but no less common than the trendy clothes-optional partiers or the cardboard box dwelling urban squatters. Don’t let the popularity of those lifestyles fool you—there is definitely a growing group of people who are living and traveling in vans, buses, RVs. You name it, and they’re doing it for a number of reasons. As a member of this community, I want to answer the question, “is van life legal?”
The internet is awash with accounts of people quitting their jobs and trading in their homes for vans to take off on an extended road trip around the country. While these stories are often romanticized to the point of being unrealistic, it is possible to experience the freedom of a nomadic lifestyle without totally breaking the law.
It turns out, many Americans who have hit the road with their homes on wheels are in for a shock when they do so. The police, for example, may cite you for doing things that you didn’t realize were illegal. If you live in a van and have ever been busted for breaking the law or ordinance as an RV-dweller, you’re not alone.
Are you thinking about converting your van into an RV? Just like any other vehicle, you must have a license to drive it. Van Life Legal is a step-by-step guide to getting your license and adapting your vehicle for travel. It also covers insurance, registration, and other legal issues specific to van life.
How To Get A License
Getting your license is one of the first big steps of adulthood – as well as the first step toward freedom. In many states, you can drive legally as soon as you turn 16, though you might need a learner’s permit first. If your state is like most others, you’ll need to study for a written exam, complete behind-the-wheel training, and pass a driving test before you can get your driver’s license.
Many people think that once they get their CDL, they can just drive and live in their van. This is not the case. If you choose to live in your van, you can still get your plates and insurance, but you will have to pay taxes on your vehicle. You will also have to tell the IRS that you have your plates and that you live in your vehicle. Then, you will have to pay taxes on the value of your vehicle.
The best option for someone looking to go to Van Dwelling is to get a recreational vehicle (RV) license. It’s an easy process, and it will allow you to travel the country freely. It is legit to live in your van as long as you have a license. The cost to get a license varies from state to state. You will be required to have a commercial driver’s license or a class B driver’s license in most states. In order to get a class B license, it is recommended that you have a car license. The class B license is the more expensive option of the two licenses. All that is required to get a class B license is that you have a car license and take a written test.
While some people like to live in close proximity to their work, most of us want to get outside for most of the day. This is where Van Life comes in. Instead of wasting time commuting, you can get out and hit the open road and discover new experiences and new places. Think of it as the modern-day hippie lifestyle, complete with a vintage VW van.
