More people than you might think are interested in knowing how to register a bus as an RV for personal use. First, used buses are inexpensive to buy compared to a giant Class A motorhome, and they feature heavy-duty everything — from frame to chassis to mechanical systems, which makes them safer and super durable. In addition, a bus has a bigger footprint to build out as you see fit, and no matter the floor plan layout you pick, you’ll have ample living space to enjoy. You can prioritize features like private bedrooms, a bunkhouse, a full bathroom and shower, and a spacious separate kitchen. But before you start dreaming about a bus conversion, you need to know how to register a bus as an RV.
Read on to find out.
Start by Consulting Your Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Before you start registration or even converting the bus to a recreational vehicle, consult your local DMV. That’s because different states have their own rules and regulations surrounding registering a commercial bus as a motorhome. The representative will let you know what features they expect your bus to have and what documentation you’ll need for the registration process. You may also be able to find the information you need online. For example, in Texas where we live, the state’s Motor Vehicle Registration Manual is posted online.
How To Register a Bus as an RV
Wondering what are the requirements to turn a used school bus into an RV? Here’s what most states will ask for.
Current Title
The first step is to make sure you have the bus’s current title before you go to the DMV. If you don’t have the original title or you misplaced it, you’ll need to follow your state’s procedures for resolving the issue. In Texas, something called a bonded title procedure can be used, but you and your vehicle will have to be eligible for it. If you don’t live in Texas, you will have to consult with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to find out what procedure it uses.
Bill of Sale
Next, you’ll need a valid bill of sale. This is a purchasing receipt from the seller to the buyer, showing how much you paid. It must include the date of purchase, price, the seller’s and buyer’s full name, address, and number. It also has the bus description, including make, model, and year, vehicle identification number (VIN), and warranty details.
Vehicle Weight Certificate
Another requirement for registering a bus as an RV is to get a weight certificate. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to weigh your bus at a weight station such as a truck stop, recycling center, or automotive repair shop and present the official weight certificate.
Fulfill the Definition of an RV
Do your research to learn how your state defines an RV. Generally, an RV has the following features:
- A designated sleeping area with at least one bed
- Stove with a fuel source
- Refrigerator
- Bathroom
- An electric power supply that’s at least 110 volts
- A freshwater supply system
- Internal climate control system
Of course, you’ll need to start renovating the bus long before you apply to register the converted school bus as an RV.
Photos of the Modifications You Have Done
Take some clear pictures of the interior and exterior modifications, as well as other upgrades you’ve done. Make sure you capture all angles, i.e., from the driver’s compartment, from the rear, and each separate area. Some states require you to remove stop signs, front and rear flashing lights, rooftop strobe lights, and school bus-related wording.
Proof of Insurance
Acquire an insurance policy before you submit your application. Companies that insure outfitted buses include Good Sam, National General, and Nationwide. The insurance company may also ask for most of the documentation we’ve covered above. That includes a copy of the title, bill of sale, and photos of the bus.
Physical Inspection
Your next step is to take your bus to state inspection facility and ask them to inspect your bus as a motor home.
Driver’s License
You’ll also need to make sure your driver’s license has the correct endorsements for you to be able to drive the bus. Most states will require a non-commercial special driver’s license if the converted bus’s weight exceeds 26,000 pounds. If the bus is longer than 40 feet and under 26,000 pounds, you may still need special licensing. Some states will require you to get a regular commercial vehicle driver’s license (CDL) if your rig exceeds those measurements.
FAQS
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding registering a bus as an RV.
What’s the Best State to Register a Bus as an RV?
As we’ve mentioned before, every state has special requirements—some rules are strict, and others a bit lenient. One of the best states to get a skoolie title is Vermont. That’s because you don’t have to be a resident of the state and their requirements are relatively easy to comply with. Iowa is another great option.
What’s the Best School Bus Brand to Convert to RV?
While you can change any school bus into an RV, some models are super popular with skoolie enthusiasts. Some of the best manufacturers of school buses are Bluebird and Thomas Built Buses. If you want a passenger transport coach for RV conversion, consider Prevost.
What’s the Best School Bus Conversion Company?
When you want to customize your bus and turn it into a motorhome, consider professional skoolie conversion companies like Epic Skoolies, Wind River Tiny Homes, Paved to Pines, Phoenix Skool Buses, and Davey Coach.
How Much Are the Registration Costs for Registering a Bus as an RV?
The registration costs will depend on the state in which you are registering the bus.
Changing a Bus to an RV Is Doable
Converted school buses offer abundant floor space, making it a suitable option for big families with kids and pets. They also have a superior construction compared to regular RVs, making them safer and long-lasting. If you’re thinking about registering yours, use this guide to help you to learn how to easily title a bus as an RV. And consult with your local DMV to find out specific information about the list of requirements you’ll have to meet.
More From RV Top Tips
Cynthia Measom is the founder and main content creator of RV Top Tips. Not just a writer, she’s a dedicated RV owner and enthusiast, alongside her husband, Joe, who is an experienced RV tech. With their joint knowledge, the two are up on the latest trends and technologies in the RV industry, as well as practical camping and lifestyle tips.
The couple own a 2020 Coachmen Chaparral fifth-wheel that they absolutely love. Their secret to being so satisfied? They purchased the model after a solid year of researching different fifth-wheel campers in person and online to find the perfect fit for their family of three.
- Cynthia Measomhttps://rvtoptips.com/author/admin_rvtoptips/
- Cynthia Measomhttps://rvtoptips.com/author/admin_rvtoptips/
- Cynthia Measomhttps://rvtoptips.com/author/admin_rvtoptips/
- Cynthia Measomhttps://rvtoptips.com/author/admin_rvtoptips/
