Is Your Vehicle London DVS Compliant?

Operating in Greater London means keeping your fleet up to scratch with all safety regulations, and at the top of that list is the London DVS. If you’re unsure whether your vehicles are compliant, now is the time to find out, as penalties are being issued for those who do not meet the standard.

What Is the Direct Vision Standard?

Direct Vision Standard, or DVS, is a Transport for London safety scheme aimed at reducing road deaths caused by heavy goods vehicles. It measures how much a driver can see directly through their windows, without relying on mirrors or cameras. The London DVS applies to all HGVs over 12 tonnes and requires them to have a valid safety permit before entering the capital.

On 28th October 2024, the rules changed and are now stricter. Vehicles rated below three stars by the manufacturer are required to have additional safety technology fitted in line with the Progressive Safe System. If your fleet still doesn’t meet these updated London DVS requirements, you risk daily fines and could lose access to FORS approved contracts.

Check Your Star Rating First

To find out whether your vehicle is already compliant, you’ll need to check its DVS star rating, which is a rating given by TfL based on the driver’s direct line of sight through the cab of that specific model of vehicle. Vehicles with a three-star rating or higher meet the current London DVS standard.

If your vehicle is rated zero, one or two stars, then it is not yet compliant. In this case, you will need to retrofit a full Progressive Safe System to meet London DVS requirements. TfL provides an online tool to help you check your vehicle’s rating and permit status.

What Equipment Is Required for 0, 1 & 2 Star Vehicles?

If your vehicle is rated below three stars, then it must be fitted with specific safety equipment to comply with the London DVS. These requirements are not optional. They are designed to reduce blind spots and protect vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

You will need to fit class V and class VI mirrors to improve direct visibility. Side under-run protection must also be installed to help prevent people from being dragged under the vehicle. A camera system is required to give the driver a clear view of the near side blind spot. Progressive Safe System must be added to alert the driver when a VRU enters the MOIS/BSIS detection zone. An audible left-turn alarm must be fitted to warn others nearby (or a right turn alarm if the vehicle is left hand drive), and you must display external warning signage to alert road users about blind spots.

All equipment must meet the technical standards outlined by TfL. Non-compliant systems will not be accepted as part of your permit application.

What Happens If You’re Not Compliant?

If you operate in London without meeting London DVS requirements after 28th October 2024, you risk a daily fine of £550 per vehicle. TfL uses automatic number plate recognition cameras to enforce the scheme, and there are no exceptions.

Failing to comply could also have wider consequences for your business. You could lose access to key sites, or find yourself removed from contracts that require full DVS or FORS compliance. The financial and reputational risks of non-compliance are simply too high to ignore.

Can You Retrofit a Vehicle to Meet DVS Requirements?

Yes. Retrofitting is a practical and cost-effective way to bring your vehicles up to standard. At TrafficAngel, we offer complete London DVS retrofit kits that meet the requirements of the Progressive Safe System. Our kits include all the technology needed to help you pass inspection and continue operating in Greater London.

Each package contains smart camera and sensor systems that give full visibility around the vehicle. We include left-turn alarms and clear warning stickers, and our team of trained engineers install everything to the correct specification. We also provide all the documentation you’ll need for your permit application.

How to Get Your Permit

Start by checking your vehicle’s DVS star rating using the TfL online tool. If your rating is below three stars, arrange for compliant safety equipment to be fitted. Once installation is complete, you can submit evidence to TfL including photographs and equipment details. If everything meets the required standard, you will be issued with a permit that is valid until at least 2030.