I tried with a mix of ignorance/trying to pull on over on the DMV to register
my Vanagon as an RV.  They said something like "it needs to have two
(three??) of the following:  1) bed 2) stove 3) toilet 4) sink "  I don't
remember exactly.  The tabs are only $25 , that seems to be the main
difference.  I built a bed from wood, I've got a backpacking stove and a
bucket for a sink...does that count?

I have RV plates on mine and I live in Minnesota.  The plates have just
transferred from the previous owner to me, but the guy I bought it from got
an official "bed pan" from the hospital he worked at and that apparently
qualified as a regulation "toilet".  That's just what he told me, I found it
amusing at least!!! : )
Dale
'84 Vanagon W/ regulation toilet
00 Golf