DVS is a safety standard set by Transport for London (TFL) that requires all HGVs over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight to attain a safety permit to enter or operate in Greater London. The initial Direct Vision Standard was finalised in March 2021 to improve the safety of all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. This has been updated to DVS Phase 2 in 2024.

To meet the DVS 2024 requirements 0 to 2 star rated vehicles require a Progressive Safe System to be installed . These systems aim to improve the drivers visibility of vulnerable road users in vehicle blind spots and reduce false alerts. Active smart systems must only give warnings when there’s a real danger to pedestrians or cyclists, not activate for the likes of street signs, street furniture or other vehicles.

The Direct Vision Standard 2 is now in effect. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) over 12 tonnes must obtain a permit to enter Greater London.

Check before travelling to LondonThe DVS covers all London boroughs and the City of London. Although it is a separate scheme from ULEZ and LEZ, it operates across this entire area year-round.

DVS 2024 Permit Requirements

Permit requirements depend on the vehicle’s star rating (the driver’s visibility rating assigned by TfL, from 0 to 5 stars). Vehicles with a rating below 3 stars must be fitted with a Progressive Safe System before entering London.

Progressive Safe System

The Progressive Safe System (PSS) is the new safety system required for compliance with the Direct Vision Standard in the Greater London DVS Zone. The PSS replaces the old Safe System.

ACSS’s PSS System fulfils all requirements of TfL’s Progressive Safe System for DVS 2024 and is available now as supply, or nationwide installation by ACSS approved engineers.

Learn more about ACSS PSS System

DVS Enforcement Fines for Non-Compliance

Penalty Charge Notice (PCN): Operating in London without a permit can result in a PCN with a penalty of £550. You can view your PCN using the PCN number and your vehicle number.

View your PCN here →

• If you pay within 14 days of receiving the PCN, the penalty charge will be reduced by 50%.

• Separate PCN may be issued for each day that you drive within Greater London without a permit. PCNs can be issued to both UK and non-UK registered vehicles.

How to Pay DVS Fines

DVS fines can be paid through the Online, Mobile App or Post:

• Online: Pay your PCN here.

• Mobile App: Download the “TfL Pay to Drive in London” app and press “Pay Penalty”.

• Post: Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit PO Box 335 Darlington DL1 9PU

What Happens if You Don’t Pay?

If you fail to pay your PCN or make a representation within 28 calendar days, the penalty charge will increase to £825.

Challenging a PCN

If you believe you have been wrongly charged, you have 28 days from the date of the PCN service to make a representation. This is part of a legal process, and you can submit your representation either online or in writing.

Challenge your PCN here →

For more information, visit the TfL website

Still Not Sure about DVS 2024 Changes?

Our experts can help you to be compliant for DVS 2024.