DVS Compliance Systems for HGVs in London and Across the UK

What is DVS?

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a Transport for London (TfL) safety scheme designed to improve visibility for HGV drivers and protect vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians.  It uses a  star rating system from 0 (poor visibility) to 5 (excellent visibility). Vehicles operating in London must meet minimum safety requirements or install a Progressive Safe System to obtain a permit.

Since October 2024, all HGVs over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight that enter or operate in Greater London must hold a valid HGV Safety Permit, unless an exemption applies:

• Hold a valid HGV Safety Permit
• Meet minimum visibility standards
  OR
• Install a Progressive Safe System

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Do I Need an HGV Safety Permit?

You need a permit if your vehicle:

• Is over 12 tonnes GVW
• Operates in Greater London

What does my vehicle need?

• 3, 4 or 5 stars:
  You can apply for an HGV Safety Permit without fitting the Progressive Safe System.
  OR
• 0, 1 or 2 stars, or unrated:
  The Progressive Safe System must be fitted before an HGV Safety Permit can be granted.

Failure to comply can result in:

Operating an affected HGV in Greater London without the required permit, or breaching permit conditions, may result in  a Penalty Charge Notice of up to £550, which may be issued for operating a vehicle without the required permit or breaching permit conditions.

Applying for an HGV Safety Permit

The HGV Safety Permit is free to apply for through Transport for London. For zero-, one-, two-star and unrated vehicles, operators must provide photographic evidence showing the PSS installation together with a sensor functionality statement confirming that the required sensor systems have been installed correctly and are operational.