DVS Direct Vision Standard
The new Direct Vision Standard (DVS) requires HGVs to install a Progressive Safe System Kit before October 2024 to operate in London.
What is Direct Vision Standard?
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a safety regulation set by Transport for London (TfL) that requires Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) weighing over 12 tonnes to have a permit to operate in Greater London. Established in March 2021, the regulation aims to enhance safety for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) focuses on the visibility of vulnerable road users (VRU) from the drivers view. The standard aims to reduce vehicle blind spots around a HGV where the level of risk to vulnerable road users is high. This includes pedestrians and cyclists near the vehicle’s blind spots. Starting in March 2021, HGVs over 12 tonnes must obtain a DVS permit to operate in the DVS Zone, with some exceptions. Failure to comply can result in a penalty notice from TfL.
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Direct Vision Standard (DVS) Requirements
To obtain a DVS Safety Permit, the requirements depend on your vehicle’s star rating. Starting from March 2021, vehicles with a star rating between 1 and 5 can get a permit without any changes. However, vehicles with a 0-star rating must install a Safe System before they can qualify for the Safety Permit.
DVS permits are free and valid until 27th October 2024. The Direct Vision requirements will change in October 2024. From 24 June 2024, vehicles with a star rating between 3 and 5 can get a permit without additional modifications. Those with a rating of 0 to 2 stars must install a Progressive Safe System to be eligible for a Safety Permit. All existing DVS Safety Permits will expire at midnight on 27th October 2024. After that, every vehicle over 12 tonnes must reapply for a Safety Permit. Any vehicle rated between 0 and 2 stars must have a Progressive Safe System installed, even if it had DVS equipment or a permit before this date.
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Understanding the Direct Vision Standard(DVS)
Gain a deeper understanding of the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and how it impacts road safety through our informative video. This feature provides a comprehensive look at how our advanced safety solutions help comply with these new regulations, ensuring your fleet meets the necessary safety standards.
Direct Vision Standard 2024 (DVS 2024)
Starting October 28, 2024, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes with a star rating below 3 will need to install extra safety equipment. This change is part of the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) updates, which previously focused on vehicles with a star rating below 1. After October 27, 2024, all existing DVS permits will be invalidated, requiring HGVs with a DVS rating of 0 to 2 stars to add new safety equipment to meet the updated Progressive Safe System requirements.
The updated DVS 2024 emphasises broader coverage of blind spots.
The new system has been designed to increase driver visibility for vulnerable road users (VRUs) in blind spots and to minimise false alerts. Warnings should be triggered by active smart systems only when there’s a genuine risk to pedestrians or cyclists. Street signs, street furniture, and other vehicles are not to trigger responses. Detection zones are set up around the vehicle, with alerts triggered inside the cab for drivers and outside for VRUs in danger zones. A key change from the current DVS standards is the need to detect VRUs in front vehicle blind spots, known as Moving Off Information Systems (MOIS).
The Progressive Safe System aligns with other regulatory schemes, including existing and upcoming standards from the European Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). Fleet Witness’s Progressive Safe System is built to meet UNECE Regulation 151 on Blind Spot Information Systems (BSIS) and UNECE Regulation 159 on Moving Off Information Systems (MOIS). The system meets all DVS 2024 compliance requirements and is currently available either as a supply-only product or with nationwide installation by our certified engineers.
The Minimum Direct Vision Standard 2024 (DVS) star rating will soon be increasing.
All Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes are assigned a safety star rating by their manufacturers. The ratings range from 0 to 5 stars, with 0 stars indicating the lowest level of safety. A 5-star rating represents the highest level of safety. These ratings reflect the amount of visibility a driver has from the cab window. The star rating indicates the level of risk to vulnerable road users near the vehicle.
By 2024, all vehicles with fewer than 3 stars must install a DVS Progressive Safe System to comply with new safety regulations.
Progressive Safe System
An active blind spot information system (BSIS) must be installed on the nearside of vehicles to alert drivers about nearby vulnerable road users. The sensors should not react to roadside fixtures or stationary vehicles. In articulated vehicles, sensors should be strategically placed on the tractor unit. This placement should cover the nearside without being triggered by the trailer itself.
A moving-off information system (MOIS) must be installed at the front of the vehicle. This system uses a camera monitoring system to alert the driver to vulnerable road users. This system should activate when the vehicle is stationary and escalate the alert if the vehicle is about to move off. A visual signal showing the vulnerable road user in the front blind spot, along with an audible alarm, should be given if a collision becomes imminent.
Current requirements for Class V and VI mirrors, audible manoeuvring warnings, side underrun protection, and external pictorial stickers remain mostly unchanged.
Our Progressive Safe System is designed in line with UNECE Regulation 151 and UNECE Regulation 159.
Fleet Witness’s PSS System meets all the requirements for TfL’s Progressive Safe System for the DVS 2024. It is available now for supply or nationwide installation by our approved engineers.
DVS ‘Progressive Safe System’ 2024 Kit
With this kit, you can manoeuvre safely and comply with DVS from Transport for London.
We are always happy to discuss your requirements and any specific issues you may have. Our sales consultants create a bespoke solution tailored to your business.
Call 0203 897 3600 or Click the ‘Work With Us’ button
More Information
Understanding the DVS rating score system
The score system is based on the drivers direct visibility whilst sat in the driving seat. If your vehicle scores zero stars then you will be required to fit a Safe System. As you can see below most trucks currently on the road will fall into this category.
| Category | Description |
| A | Zero Star Eye Point |
| B | One Star Eye Point |
| C | Two Star Eye Point |
| D | Three Star Eye Point |
Applying for DVS Permit
Find the star rating for your vehicle
This is the first step in determining the equipment you will need. You can contact your vehicle manufacturer for assistance. Alternatively, you can send us a fleet list, and we’ll handle it for you at no cost.
Install the necessary equipment and signage
Over the last 2 years, Fleet Witness has designed and tested our own Blind Spot Detection kit. We have assembled packages that range from the minimum needed for DVS compliance to more comprehensive solutions. These advanced options offer a better return on investment for your fleet.
DVS Application
After installing your equipment, you will need to provide photos and complete the application form. If Fleet Witness has installed the equipment, we will provide photos to document the installation. We will also assist in preparing your HGV Safety Permit application for submission to Transport for London.
Penalties
Starting 26 October 2020, driving an HGV in London without a valid permit can result in a penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £550. This amount is reduced to £275 if paid within 14 days, with a separate £130 fine for the driver.
TFL can also revoke or suspend a permit if a vehicle that has been granted a permit is later found to be in breach of the permit terms.
Direct Vision Standard (DVS) FAQs
What is a Safe System?
A Safe System includes a set of vehicle safety measures added after manufacture. These measures are designed to reduce the risks that HGVs pose to pedestrians and cyclists.
Is it a legal requirement?
Yes, it is unlawful to operate a HGV over 12T within Greater London since the 1st March 2021. Doing so could result in fines of up to £550 per day.
Does the side camera need to be recording?
No, the DVS doesn’t require the camera to record. However, since you’ve installed it, pairing it with a front-facing camera and having both record would be beneficial.
How do I obtain a permit?
You can apply to TfL, there is no charge for the application itself. Fleet Witness can help with this process.
Is the DVS scheme in place anywhere outside London?
No, not currently.
What happens if the Safe System equipment fails and I’m caught in breach of the permit scheme?
TfL has the ability to revoke Safety Permits if they find you are in breach of the conditions. Therefore, it is crucial that the system works correctly. Fleet Witness’ Blind Spot Detection kits feature a remote health check function. If the equipment is linked with one of our live platforms, it will notify you if a sensor fails.
How long does it take to have a vehicle installed with a Safe System?
The minimum equipment required will take 3-4 hours to install, depending on the vehicle.
Will I also qualify for FORs?
Yes, the equipment installed will also be relevant for FORs silver certification but only if a reverse alarm is also present.
