As the first legislation of its kind, the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) will take effect from 26th October 2020. It requires ALL goods vehicles over 12 tonnes driving into Greater London to have a permit including those vehicles from outside the UK.
In a move that has been enforced by Transport for London all 12-tonne vehicles or higher will be assigned a ‘star-rating’ based on how much visibility the driver has from inside the cab concerning other road users. The manufacturer of these goods vehicles will be issuing the star rating, which will be between 0-5, and only concerns the vehicle as it left the production line. However, you will be able to increase your star rating with compliance measures being taken.
HGVs looking to enter Greater London will need to meet the minimum requirement of one star or complying with the Safe System. The Safe System compliance does not result in a star but will allow you to apply for a driving permit. Any vehicle that does not comply with the Safe System will be banned from driving in Greater London from 26th October 2020.
What You Need to Know About the HGV Safety Permit
The permit is free of charge and there is no requirement to display anything in the vehicle. Applications can be made on the TFL website.
The duration of the permit is based on the star level your vehicle has.
0 stars will be banned from Greater London by 26th October 2020.
1-2 star vehicles with a permit will expire by 25th October 2024 (these vehicles must reapply for a 10-year permit under the progressive Safe System.
3-5 star vehicles with a permit will expire by 25th October 2030 or after 10-years.
The permit system will be checked and monitored by a decriminalised Traffic Regulation Order, meaning a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) can be issued. Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras will detect a vehicle and checked against TfL’s permit database. Any HGV without a permit may be issued a PCN of £550 and £130 for the driver, even if the vehicle is compliant and rated 5 stars.
