The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) has been developed in order to address the high number of collisions in London involving HGVs and people walking and cycling. The DVS objectively measures a driver’s direct view through the windows of an HGV cab. This is communicated as a star rating from zero (poor) to five (excellent), which indicates the level of risk to people walking and cycling near the vehicle. The DVS has been developed in consultation with an expert panel comprising researchers, academics and representatives from the freight industry, Europe’s foremost HGV manufacturers and regulatory bodies.
If your vehicle meets the minimum DVS star rating you will be able to apply for an HGV Safety Permit. As of October 2024, the minimum DVS rating is now three stars to enter or operate in Greater London. If your vehicle does not meet the DVS star rating or is not rated, you will need to meet the ‘Safe System’ requirements to be granted a permit. It is unlawful to operate an HGV more than 12 tonnes GVW in Greater London without a permit.
Click here for the latest information relating to the DVS from TfL.
