Direct Vision Standard

What is the Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit?

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and safety permit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) requires all HGVs over 12t to be granted a permit to enter or operate in Greater London. The scheme was created by Transport for London (TFL) to improve the safety of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.  It will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will be enforced on all roads within the Greater London Boundary.  The change came into effect on 26 October 2020 and will be enforced from 01 March 2021.  The DVS uses a star system to rate the vision from HGVs from zero star (lowest) to 5 star (highest) based only on how much a driver can see directly through their cab windows. 


star rating

How to check the star rating of your vehicle.

Permits for 3, 4 and 5 star rated vehicles will be issued for a period of 10 years. Permits for 1 and 2 star rated vehicles will be issued to expire on 26 October 2024.

Vehicles with a zero star rating can get a permit if fitted with Safe System equipment. Evidence of fitment will be required and a permit will be issued to expire on 26 October 2024.

To check the rating of a new Mercedes-Benz Truck you may be considering purchasing, please speak to us today to find out more.

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