Like every vehicle registered in Italy, a motorhome is subject to a compulsory annual tax: the camper tax, technically known as the tassa automobilistica (vehicle tax). What few people realise is that the amount payable is not the same for everyone.
Two owners of identical motorhomes, with the same engine power and year of registration, may pay markedly different sums simply because they live in different regions. Understanding how it works is essential for avoiding unexpected costs and properly planning the expense of keeping a motorhome.
What the camper tax is and who has to pay it
The camper tax is an ownership tax applied to all vehicles registered as motorhomes, which fall within categories M1, M2 or N, in Italy. Unlike third-party motor insurance (RCA), which covers damage to others, the tax is not linked to how the vehicle is used but simply to who it is registered to. Put simply, even a motorhome left in a garage for months still incurs the obligation to pay, except in specific circumstances.
The tax is due for each calendar year, and the deadline varies according to the month in which the vehicle was first registered. Failure to pay within the required period results in penalties and interest, with the amount increasing in line with the delay.
The camper tax is not included in the categories covered by the new 2027 car-tax abolition decree, as the measure applies to cars up to 80 kW, while motorhomes generally exceed that threshold.
How much camper tax costs and how it is calculated
Camper tax is calculated using one key figure: engine power in kilowatts (kW). This can be found on the vehicle registration document under item P.2, which states the maximum power in kW. Anyone who only knows their engine’s horsepower (CV) can easily convert it using a standard formula:
kW = CV ÷ 1.36
For instance, a 140 CV motorhome is equivalent to around 103 kW. Once the kW figure is known, the relevant regional rate is applied. This is expressed as an amount per kW of power.
The process for calculating camper tax is as follows:
- find the engine’s kW figure on the vehicle registration document;
- check the rate applied by the region where the owner lives;
- multiply: kW × regional rate = annual camper tax due.
The regional rate can also vary according to power thresholds. Some regions apply a different rate to vehicles exceeding a certain power level, typically 100 kW, while a lower amount applies below that threshold.
Camper tax by region: why rates differ
Each region can set its own rates for vehicle tax because of the fiscal federalism reform introduced during the 1990s.
The State sets a national base rate, but regions may apply surcharges or, in some cases, reductions compared with this figure.
Regions with historically higher rates
Some regions in central and northern Italy, including Lombardy, Piedmont and Tuscany, tend to apply some of the highest rates in the country.
In these regions, the ownership tax alone for a medium-powered motorhome, at around 100–130 kW, can amount to between €300 and €450 per year.
Regions with lower rates
By contrast, some southern regions and islands apply lower rates. The Aosta Valley has historically been among the regions with the lowest charges, along with certain parts of southern Italy.
In some cases, and for certain vehicle categories, Sardinia has specific concession schemes. Over many years of ownership, these differences can translate into significant cumulative savings.
When, where and how to pay camper tax
Camper tax follows the same deadlines that apply to cars. The payment date depends on the vehicle’s month of first registration. Broadly speaking, the tax falls due at the end of the month following the month of registration or the previous payment, each year. For example, a motorhome registered in March will have its tax due by 30 April every year.
It is important not to confuse the due date with the payment date. The law provides a grace period, usually 30 days after the deadline, before automatic penalties apply. Payment can be made through several channels:
- the ACI online portal (online.aci.it), using a credit or debit card;
- ACI offices across Italy;
- authorised tobacconists and payment outlets that accept vehicle-tax payments;
- participating banks and post offices;
- the apps and online banking services of many banks that support camper-tax payments.
To make the payment, the vehicle’s registration number and the owner’s details are required. The system automatically retrieves the amount due according to the owner’s region of residence.
Exemptions and reductions: who may not have to pay camper tax
Not every motorhome owner has to pay. The law provides for several cases of full or partial exemption:
- Historic vehicles: motorhomes at least 30 years old and registered with recognised historic registers may qualify for exemptions or reduced rates, depending on the region.
- Electric or hybrid vehicles: motorhomes with fully electric engines are exempt in many regions for a set period after registration.
- People with severe disabilities: where specific certified disability conditions apply, an exemption may be available for a vehicle used to transport the disabled person.
- Withdrawal from circulation: when a vehicle is scrapped or permanently exported, camper tax is no longer due from the date it is removed from the PRA (Public Vehicle Register).
It is always advisable to check the specific rules with the relevant region of residence or consult the ACI website, as exemption rules may vary and change over time.
Source: https://www.idealista.it/