Direct Vision Standard (DVS)
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What is Direct Vision Standard (DVS)?
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) came into force in October 2020; a legislation that requires all goods vehicles weighing more than 12 tonnes to possess a permit to drive in Greater London.
Enforced by Transport for London (TfL), the permit is based on a vehicle’s ‘star rating’, indicating how much a driver can see from the cab in relation to other road users. The rating (0-5) is given on how the vehicle left the production line and will not take into account any aftermarket safety systems that have been fitted.
HGVs that do not meet the minimum star rating have to be equipped with a series of vehicle safety measures to improve and aid the driver’s indirect vision prior to applying for the permit. Non-compliant HGVs are banned from entering Greater London, with daily fines for both operators and drivers without permits.
HGVs that do not meet the minimum requirement of 1 star (3 stars from October 2024) need to comply with the Progressive Safe System (PSS) which requires the installation of extra devices for indirect vision (similar to FORS & CLOCS specifications) to alert drivers to vulnerable road users who are in a vehicle’s blind spot. Complying with the DVS Safe System will not alter the vehicle’s star rating but will permit you to drive into Greater London.
Direct Vision Standard (DVS)
Where in London is it enforceable?
Our Direct Vision Standard (DVS) map below outlines the area of London where the regulation is in force and where permits are compulsory. Don’t forget this will apply to all vehicles weighing more than 12 tonnes, whether they are from the UK or travelling into London from overseas.
How long will the permit last?
Vehicle Star Rating |
Permit Expiry |
Certificate |
0,1 & 2 (applying before June 2024) | 27th Oct 2024 | Will need to comply with the PSS requirements and re-apply |
0,1 & 2 (applying from 24th June 2024) | 28th Oct 2030 | Will need to comply with the PSS requirements |
3,4 & 5 | 28th Oct 2030 | Can automatically apply |
Enforcement
The scheme will be implemented by a decriminalised Traffic Regulation Order, meaning a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) can be issued. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will detect a vehicle which will be checked with TfL’s permit database. All vehicles must have a permit, regardless of star rating. Operators/hauliers without a permit may be issued a PCN of £550 and £130 for the driver, even if the vehicle is five star rated.
The Safe System is evolving
The minimum star rating requirement for the Direct Vision Standard will increase from one to three stars in October 2024. This means that vehicles that fall short of the star rating will need to be equipped with extra safety equipment to obtain a permit. Previously the permit for extra equipment was called a safe permit.
Previously, the permit for extra equipment was called a Safe Permit but from October 2024 that will change and be known as the Progressive Safe System (PSS). The PSS requires the latest advancements in technology and will mean that some operators will need to replace their existing equipment with new technology.
Pre-October 2024
Vehicles Affected?
0 Star rated vehicles.
Requirements?
Fit a DVS Safe System in order to qualify for a permit.
Post October 2024
Vehicles Affected?
0, 1 and 2 star rated vehicles.
Requirements?
Fit a Progressive Safe System to qualify for a permit.
The Progressive Safe System includes new additions:
1. Active Side Sensor Systems that can:
2. Front Detection System or Moving Off Information System (MOIS) that requires:
Differentiate between moving and stationary objects.
Predict collisions “based on the trajectories of the vehicle and the vulnerable road user (VRU) to calculate if a collision is imminent.
Provide a specified alarm strategy to warn of the severity of the situation.
Two alarms; one when the driver detects a VRU when preparing to move off and one when the vehicle detects a VRU as it has begun its forward manoeuvre.
When the vehicle is stationary; the system must provide a signal to inform the driver of any VRU’s who are in or about to enter the critical blind spot in front of vehicle.
The collision warning must be a combination of at least two modes from an optical signal, acoustic or haptic.
How to apply for a DVS Permit
The permit is free of charge and there is no requirement to display anything in the vehicle. If you are unsure how to apply for a DVS Permit then continue reading below but if you are ready to submit an application, you can apply on the TfL website by following the link below.
Step 1
Step 2
If your HGV is below 3 stars.
Step 3
Evidence needed to comply with the PSS
Provide two photographs to show you have fitted the PSS equipment
Photo 1
Must show the front and nearside of the HGV showing the front number plate.
Photo 2
Must show the rear and nearside of the vehicle including the rear number plate.
Sensor Functionality Statement
The PSS sets out specific test procedures and it is the responsibility of the DVS equipment manufacturer to confirm that products meet the requirements via a ‘sensor functionality statement.’ This should include details of how the products link with other systems and confirmation that they do not adversely affect any safety critical aspects or performance of the vehicle. If a product has an E-mark it will meet these requirements.
The document will need to be uploaded by the operator. If there are any non-compliance issues identified at a later date, it will be easily identified from the manufacturer used. Fitters will also need to confirm that the sensors fitted to the vehicle are active and fitted in compliance with the technical PSS specification.
Brigade Service Partners are professional auto electricians that are trained and approved to fit Brigade equipment.
How do I find my DVS Star Rating?
What to do if your vehicle is
0, 1 or 2 star rated
Get ready for the DVS Progressive Safe System changes!
Since DVS was introduced, all 0 rated vehicles have had to comply with the DVS Safe System in order to qualify for a permit. However, from October 2024 this will be changing. All vehicles rated 0, 1 and 2 stars will now need to comply and update their vehicles with the new DVS Progressive Safe System requirements.
What are the current requirements for the DVS Safe System?
If your vehicle is 0 star rated, you must comply with the requirements of the DVS Safe System. This is a series of vehicle safety measures which aim to improve the overall safety of the HGV and aid indirect vision. Complying with the DVS Safe System will not alter a vehicle’s star rating, but it will permit it to be driven in Greater London.
Here at Brigade, we have created a specially compiled DVS Safe System kit to help streamline the process for companies. These kits, which come in two different types (one for rigid vehicles and one for articulated vehicles) include side cameras,ultrasonic sensors for the near side of the vehicle and awarning alarm, which is activated when the vehicle is turning. Both kits are compliant with the Direct Vision Standard as well as all relevant regional laws across the EU, meaning fleet operators can be confident that the systems will meet all necessary legal requirements.
The following devices are required to comply with the current DVS Safe System:
- Class V mirror fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
- Class VI mirror fitted to the front of the vehicle
- Side under-run protection fitted to both sides of the vehicle except where this is impractical or proves to be impossible. See TfL website for exemptions.
- External pictorial stickers and markings shall we displayed on vehicles to warn vulnerable road users of the hazards around the vehicle
- A sensor system that alerts the driver to the presence of a vulnerable road user fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
- Audible vehicle manoeuvring warning to warn vulnerable road users when a vehicle is turning left
- A fully operational camera monitoring system fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
If your vehicle already complies with FORS Silver, it will meet the requirements of the DVS Safe System. Here is a look at some of the major differences between FORS and DVS.
If you would like to find out more about Brigade’s DVS Safe System kit, please visit our product page.
How Brigade can help
Brigade Electronics has a range of products to help operators meet the requirements of various specifications including the Progressive Safe System (PSS) for the Direct Vision Standard (DVS). Brigade’s team of experts works closely with road safety associations and charities to provide the best and most up-to-date advice. Interpreting various specifications and understanding the terminology can be a minefield for operators. For example, references to ‘shall’, ‘should’ and ‘may’ in the Direct Vision Standard depict whether a requirement is mandatory, recommended or permitted and transport managers can be left confused.
Brigade has provided advice to many OEM and OES suppliers and continues to work with the aftermarket to make sure that vehicles are compliant. In this role, Brigade also ensures products are fitted to maximise their safety potential.
For a free no obligation consultation on the Direct Vision Standard, please contact us for an appointment.