Direct Vision Standard (DVS)
Operate a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) over 12 tonnes in most of Greater London? It must meet the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) requirements and hold a valid HGV Safety Permit.
From 28 October 2024, vehicles with a DVS rating below three stars will only be granted a permit if they are fitted with the Progressive Safe System (PSS).
We help fleet operators meet DVS compliance with Progressive Safe Systems, installation services, and support throughout the application process.
DVS Compliance With Tracker999
Progressive Safe Systems
Compliant PSS systems
Supporting fleet operators
Expert consultancy to simplify what’s needed
Supply & Fit
We install DVS anywhere in the UK
What Is the Direct Vision Standard?
The DVS measures how much a driver can see directly through the cab windows. Based on this, each vehicle is assigned a star rating from 0 to 5. This rating is issued by the vehicle manufacturer and is based on the original design of the cab; aftermarket systems do not affect this rating, however they make the vehicle compliant with the standards.
Progressive Safe System
The Progressive Safe System is a set of safety measures that must be fitted to HGVs rated below three stars. These include:
The standards begin from:
- A camera monitoring system must be fitted to the nearside ofthe vehicle, to completely eliminate theremaining blind spot at the nearside
- Class V and VI mirrors, or CMS replacements
- Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) to detect vulnerable road users along the nearside
- Moving Off Information System (MOIS) to detect people in front of the cab when the vehicle moves off
- Side under-run protection (unless it is not practical to fit)
- Audible left-turn warnings, or right-turn for left-hand drive vehicles
- External warning signage to inform road users of vehicle hazards
These systems must be installed according to TfL’s technical specifications.
DVS Star Rating
Every HGV over 12 tonnes is assigned a Direct Vision Standard (DVS) star rating, ranging from 0 to 5 stars, based on the driver’s ability to see directly through the cab windows. The more direct visibility a driver has, the higher the rating.
The manufacturer sets your vehicle’s star rating. It reflects the design of the cab when the vehicle left the factory; it doesn’t take into account any aftermarket safety systems or later modifications, such as lower passenger windows and cameras.
Since 28 October 2024, vehicles must be rated three stars or higher to operate in Greater London without additional safety equipment. If your vehicle is rated zero, one or two stars, or if it hasn’t been rated, you’ll need to have a Progressive Safe System (PSS) fitted before applying for a permit.
Where does the DVS Cover?
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) enforcement zone covers most of Greater London, including all 32 London boroughs and the City of London. The zone is broadly defined by the area within the boundary of the M25 motorway. However, the M25 itself is not always included in the zone—it serves as a general boundary marker.
The DVS zone is separate from the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), although their geographical coverage overlaps.
Changes from 28 October 2024
The DVS Safe Sytem was replaced by the Progressive safe system in October 2024 and it features enanced direct vision standard requirements.
The new updates replaces the original HGV
safety permit guidance that was originally
published in 2019, which means that some vehicles with kit from this time may no longer be compliant.
Minimum Star Rating Increase
The minimum DVS requirement increases from one star to three stars
Old Permits Now Expired
Permits issued under the older Safe System will expire at 23:59 on 27 October 2024
PSS
Vehicles rated 0, 1 or 2 stars must be fitted with the Progressive Safe System (PSS)
Enforcement now active
Vehicles without a valid permit will be subject to enforcement
That’s where we come in
We work with fleet operators, vehicle hire companies, and transport managers to meet DVS requirements. Our engineers are trained in HGV safety equipment, and we only fit systems that meet TfL’s 2024 Progressive Safe System standards.
Why Choose Tracker999 as Your DVS Compliance Partner?
DVS Compliant Kits
If you run HGVs over 12 tonnes in Greater London, you’ll need to be DVS compliant to avoid fines and stay legal. We supply and install vehicle safety systems that meet TfL’s Direct Vision Standard requirements. Whether you need a basic camera setup, full driver monitoring with recording, or a radar-based system with no cameras, we’ve got options to suit your fleet and your budget.
DVS Installation Services
A DVS permit won’t protect you from fines if your equipment isn’t installed properly, isn’t working, or doesn’t meet the required specifications. We install compliant safety systems anywhere in the UK, using trained engineers who know exactly where and how to fit each component. Every installation includes warning signage, in-cab monitors, and audible alerts, with flexible appointments to keep your vehicles on the road.
Contact us today.
If your HGVs are rated below three stars, contact us today. We’ll help you understand what’s needed, book installations, and give you everything you need to apply for your new permit