DVS 2024 Regulations

As of October 2024, the UK’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) regulations require heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes operating in Greater London to have a minimum star rating of three. The DVS star rating measures a driver’s direct field of vision from the cab. Operators now have a grace period to update their vehicles to meet these standards, which has been extended to 4th May 2025.

Let BackWatch help you navigate through these DVS 2024 changes.

As part of the updated changes, vehicles must now achieve at least a three-star rating or be equipped with a Progressive Safe System (PSS) to operate legally in Greater London.

Star Rating Scale

• 0 Stars: Vehicles with poor direct vision. Drivers have significant blind spots and cannot see VRUs adequately.
• 1 Star: Minimum acceptable direct vision, but still requires supplementary safety systems to enhance visibility.
• 2 Stars: Below-average direct vision. Drivers have some blind spots, but these can be mitigated with additional systems.
• 3 Stars: Good direct vision. The vehicle meets the current 2024 standards, offering substantial visibility without major blind spots.
• 4 Stars: Very good direct vision. Minimal blind spots, providing a high level of safety.
• 5 Stars: Excellent direct vision. Virtually no blind spots, ensuring maximum safety for all road users.

Impact of the Rating

Vehicles with higher star ratings offer safer operation in urban environments. They reduce the likelihood of accidents involving VRUs. As part of the updated changes, vehicles must achieve at least a three-star rating or be equipped with a Progressive Safe System (PSS) to operate legally in Greater London.

Importance of Compliance

Fleet operators must adhere to the DVS regulations to avoid penalties and ensure safety. By understanding and improving their vehicles’ star ratings, operators can significantly contribute to safer roads. Additionally, this supports the Vision Zero initiative aimed at eliminating all road deaths and serious injuries.

Applications for PSS permits opened on 24 June 2024. Here’s what you need to know:

If you already hold a Safe System permit for a zero-star-rated HGV, you must supply proof that the Moving Off Information System (MOIS) and Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) are fitted and working correctly. Ensure your contact details are up to date and you have your existing permit number on hand.
Furthermore, update your contact details so the correct information can be sent to the right person in your organisation. If you need to update your details, please do so through the DVS contact page. Alternatively, you can submit a new application with new contact details after applications opened on 24 June 2024.

You can fit the PSS to your vehicle now and receive a safety permit under the current Safe System rules. However, you will need to apply for a replacement permit if your system was fitted before the applications opened. You do not need to wait to install the PSS.

Finally, if you have a vehicle rated as three, four, or five stars, you do not need to install the PSS. Your safety permit will remain valid until its expiry date. New vehicles rated three stars and above will still need to apply for a safety permit.