What makes a bus an rv

More than likely, your local DMV representative may not know what the guidelines are. They will probably direct you to one of the bigger DMVs or one that specializes in special circumstances. Below is a general list of requirements that most states adhere too. Some are more detailed than others, but you should prepare yourself for the following:.

As of , The state of Vermont is an exception to other state requirements. Their requirements are more lenient than the other states. To register your bus as an RV, they do not require proof of conversion, insurance, or an inspection.

They will register your bus RV even if you are not a resident of Vermont. It can feel like rebuilding a hot rod. Need a desk area to work your remote job online? No problem! Or, are you a foodie who needs more kitchen space to master your next recipe? With a bus, you have the flexibility to design your space based on how you plan to use it. Since school bus conversions are still relatively rare, be prepared for the first person you contact to be unsure of the process.

Contact different offices or departments until you find A DMV employee who is knowledge about buses and recreational vehicles. Some states, like Texas, will require photo documentation of the build process or the final conversion. Simply photograph all the major changes to the vehicle starting with its original condition.

Take extra photos of any of the systems required by your DMV just in case there are questions. While some states will accept photos as proof of conversion and required systems, other states, such as Illinois, will require an in-person inspection by a DMV official.

Scheduling the inspection can be a bit difficult as all the required systems and appliances must be fully installed before the inspection. When you initially contact your DMV about the requirements, also ask about wait times for an inspection. Try to schedule the appointment after your desired completion date, so you have buffer time for unforeseen delays. These documents include:. Most Skoolie owners wait a few weeks to receive their updated registration. There are a few states that make registering your school bus as an RV a much simpler process.

Vermont has the easiest process of any state. Once the painting is complete, obtaining a recreation vehicle registration is super easy. We wanted to be able to work comfortably after the kids went to sleep.

When you are 6 feet and over, RV showers are just a special kind of cruel. But all this about the bathroom would likely be totally different for someone else. So take it all with a grain of salt. We honestly never considered a school bus because as soon as we started looking at buses, we found a wholesale dealer in Arizona and immediately connected about a couple of shuttle bus gems, including the one we ended up with.

School bus conversions look awesome, but we think it would have been a poor choice for us, mostly for time reasons. We had to get our build done in a little over a month and a school bus conversion, because they usually involve grinding out rust, raising the ceiling, and other metal work, would have taken much more time than we had. So all in all, we are super happy we ended up where we did!

If you have any questions, let us know! I saw you were searching for the best donut. In Ohio, we had an awesome donut out of a "food truck" style business. If you happen to pass through! Also great cheese stores. So nice to meet you!! Thank you :. With some modifications its a great engine. This has been so so helpful! My husband and I owned a camper van a couple years back. Weve been diligently researching and seeing you guys manage this with two kids has been inspiring and you guys have been a great resource for information.

I hope you guys post something detailed about all your storage as well as floor plan. But I love the bunk type set up you have next to your bed! Seriously you guys rule! Ah, thank you so much!! Let me know if you have any questions! I just saw your interview with Less Junk, More Journey. I really enjoyed the video and your input. How do was it for you guy getting insurance? Who do you use for insurance? I share the same exact views for choosing a shuttle bus over an RV, especially regarding the safety and floor plan issues.