Start with your RV, not a chart
Motorhomes, fifth-wheels and travel trailers vary widely in height and width. Rooftop air conditioners, satellite domes, ladders and solar panels often sit above the published body height. Measure the real vehicle, then add a margin you are comfortable with.
Illustrative only: approximate Class C outline (8 ft wide × 11 ft high) in a 12 × 14 opening.
How to measure your RV
- Highest point. Park on level ground and measure from the ground to the top of the tallest rooftop item, with tyres at normal pressure.
- Widest point. Measure across mirrors in their normal driving position, plus awnings or slide-out housings if they protrude.
- Driveway approach. A slope or dip at the threshold can raise the roof line as the RV rolls in. Check the angle where the driveway meets the slab.
- Future vehicles. If you may upgrade, plan for a taller or wider RV than you own today.
Illustrative RV door sizes
Doors around 12 to 14 ft wide and 12 to 16 ft high are frequently discussed for motorhomes. Treat these as starting points to compare against your measurements.
| Size (W × H) | Millimetres | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10′ × 12′ | 3048 × 3658 | Narrow RV opening; suits smaller campers and vans. Check mirror width. |
| 12′ × 12′ | 3658 × 3658 | Often discussed as a starting point for Class C motorhomes. |
| 12′ × 14′ | 3658 × 4267 | Extra height for taller motorhomes and roof equipment. |
| 14′ × 14′ | 4267 × 4267 | Wider opening for easier alignment when reversing. |
| 12′ × 16′ | 3658 × 4877 | Very tall opening for large Class A motorhomes or fifth-wheels. |
RV doors are usually special-order, extended-height products. Size from your own RV measurements.
| Vehicle category | Approx. body width | Approx. height |
|---|---|---|
| High-roof van | 6′ 8″ | 9′ |
| Class C motorhome | 8′ | 11′ |
| Class A motorhome | 8′ 6″ | 13′ |
Rough illustrations only — real models vary widely. Use your own vehicle’s measured figures.
Structure, lift style and headroom
- Headers and framing: wide openings need properly sized headers. A builder or engineer should confirm the structure, especially in new builds or conversions.
- Lift style: standard-lift track needs ceiling space behind the opening. High-lift or vertical-lift track runs the door up the wall instead, useful in tall RV bays.
- Wind load: large doors catch more wind. Some regions require wind-load rated doors; check with your local building department.
- Openers: heavy, tall doors may need a heavier-duty or wall-mounted opener. Confirm with the opener manufacturer.
See our clearance guide for headroom, side room and backroom basics.
RV door planning checklist
- RV height to highest rooftop item
- RV width including mirrors and awnings
- Driveway slope at the threshold
- Available headroom and wall height inside
- Local permit and wind-load requirements
- Quotes from installers experienced with oversized doors
Safety note
Large doors are heavy and their springs store significant energy. Installation of oversized doors should be done by qualified professionals.
Frequently asked questions
How tall should an RV garage door be?
Measure the RV's highest point including the air conditioner, antennas and vents, then add a safety margin and allow for driveway slope. Doors around 12–14 ft high are often discussed, but your measurements should decide.
Does an RV door need special framing?
Tall, wide openings need properly engineered headers and, in some areas, wind-load rated doors. A builder or engineer should confirm the structure.
Do I need extra headroom inside for an RV door?
Yes. Tall doors still need headroom for tracks and springs, or a different lift style such as high-lift or vertical-lift track.
Ready to replace or install a door?
Have a professional confirm your measurements, clearances and structural requirements before you order.