DVS 2024 Regulations

In October 2024, the UK’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) regulations will 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. The grace period for updating vehicles to meet these new standards has been extended to 4th May 2025.

Let BackWatch help you navigate through these DVS 2024 changes.

DVS 2024 regulations star rating

As part of the 2024 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.

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 upcoming 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. Moreover, as part of the 2024 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 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 will open on 24 June 2024. To be ready:

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. Make sure your contact details are up to date and you have your existing permit number on hand.
Furthermore, update your contact details so we can send the right information 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 once applications open on 24 June 2024.

You can fit the PSS to your vehicle now and receive a safety permit under current Safe System rules. However, you will need to apply for a replacement permit once applications open on 24 June 2024. You do not need to wait until then to fit 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 continue to be valid until its expiry date. New vehicles rated three stars and above will still need to apply for a safety permit.

Enhance Your Fleet’s Safety with DVS 2024 Regulations Compliance

Fill in your details to receive tailored advice and support for your specific needs. We will use the information provided to email you with your current DVS rating and offer suggestions for any necessary upgrades.

By submitting this form, you will receive personalised recommendations to help your fleet achieve the necessary DVS 2024 Regulations star ratings, ensuring safer roads and compliance with the latest standards.

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    Area of the new DVS 2024 regulations

    Area of Enforcement

    This map highlights the Greater London area where the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) regulations are enforced. The DVS aims to improve road safety by ensuring heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes meet visibility standards. Starting Octobe 2024 (Grace period till May 2025), vehicles operating in this area must have a minimum three-star rating or be equipped with a Progressive Safe System (PSS). Ensure your fleet is compliant to promote safety and avoid penalties.

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