Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a safety permit scheme for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and operators of lorries with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 12 tonnes. They must secure a safety permit prior to entering and conducting operations within the majority of Greater London. Failure to comply may result in the issuance of a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Since it’s introduction in March 2021, you are required to add cameras to your HGVs in order to meet the Direct Vision Standard for London. To drive within the M25 you must receive a permit, which if you don’t have will result in a fine of £550 for driving in Greater London.
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is designed to cut road injuries in London resulting from HGVs that have driver blind-spots. Since March 2021, lorry owners must eliminate all blind spots by adding camera equipment and other enhancements to driver vision. These ‘Safe System’ upgrades became even more demanding in October 2024.
If your vehicle receives a zero-star rating, you will be required to enhance its safety by implementing Safe System improvements. From October 28, 2024, you will need to upgrade your vehicle’s safety measures with a Progressive Safe System.
Learn more about the Progressive Safe System.
Where Is Direct Vision Standard (DVS) applicable?
The Direct Vision Standard enforcement zone covers all of Greater London.
HGV Safety Permit Requirements
Regardless of the operator’s assessment of whether their vehicle meets the standards, all lorries exceeding 12 tonnes in gross vehicle weight (GVW) must possess a valid HGV safety permit when entering or operating within Greater London to prevent the issuance of a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
The HGV safety permit scheme applies to the majority of Greater London and is in effect around the clock, every day of the year.
Applying for a permit is free of charge.
What Vehicles Does The Direct Vision Standard Apply To?
The following types of vehicles must adhere to the DVS rules:
- HGVs with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 12 tonnes or more
- N3 category vehicles
- HGVs registered overseas
How Is Direct Vision Standard Enforced?
DVS is enforced through a Traffic Regulation Order that has been decriminalized, allowing for the issuance of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs). Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras will identify vehicles, which is then be cross-referenced with TfL’s permit database. Operators or hauliers found without a permit may face a PCN of £550, with drivers also subject to a fine of £130, regardless of the vehicle’s star rating, upon each entry into Greater London.
Become Compliant With Fuelwise
We supply and fit all the camera systems that you need and we can advise on options for a range of budgets.
We have a huge variety of cameras and in-cab monitors to make sure your vehicles are not only Direct Vision Standard compliant but less likely to be involved in accidents.
To find out more, complete the form below.
Marketing Manager at Fuelwise
Dominic has been covering the fuel and fleet management industry for over seven years, writing about Fuel Cards, Telematics, and Vehicle Cameras. In 2023 he was awarded the Excellence In Marketing award at the Causeway Chamber Business Awards, followed by the Best Use Of Social Media In Service/B2B at the 2024 NI Social Media Awards. You can connect with Dominic on LinkedIn here.
