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.

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.