Direct Vision Standard (DVS)

Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rules require HGVs over 12 tonnes to hold a permit to operate in Greater London. Vehicles rated below 3 stars must install approved safety equipment under the Progressive Safe System (PSS) or face daily fines.

What is the Direct Vision Standard?

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a legislation enforced by Transport for London (TfL) requiring HGVs weighing more than 12 tonnes to possess a permit to drive in Greater London. This legislation does not only apply to vehicles in the UK. You will still need to obtain a permit if you are driving into London from overseas. From October 2024, DVS was upgraded to the Progressive Safe System (PSS).

The permit is based on a vehicle’s ‘star rating’, indicating how much a driver can see from the cab. The rating (0-5) is given on how the vehicle left the production line and will not consider any aftermarket safety systems that have been fitted.

You will need to equip vehicle safety equipment if your vehicle does not meet a minimum rating of 3 stars. If you do not have a permit, operators and drivers will receive daily fines.

DVS Resources

Brochures, kits, and guides to help you get compliant.

DVS Compliant Kits

Our kits include products for full DVS compliance, upgrading from 1 and 2 stars and for vehicles that already meet the 3-star requirement.

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DVS Guide

Our DVS Guide contains all the information you will require for getting your vehicle ready for the application.

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Application Guide

Our step-by-step guide simplifies the DVS application process ensuring that you have all that you need for a successful application.

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DVS Zone

Our map shows where a DVS permit is required to operate in Greater London, most of which is encircled by the M25 motorway.

View DVS Zone

Understanding DVS

We have compiled a video to help you gain a deeper understanding of DVS and how the legislation impacts road safety. Brigade has DVS compliant safety solutions ensuring your fleet meets the safety standards.

Achieve DVS Compliance Now

Brigade’s products have been independantly tested to be compliant with the latest Direct Vision Standard requirements.

Get DVS Compliant

How do I find my DVS Star Rating?

Brigade can do this for you by contacting the vehicle manufacturer on your behalf. All we need is the VIN number, vehicle manufacturer, vehicle type and registration number, and for you to complete our online DVS Star Rating form. Allow us two weeks to receive confirmation.

Get Your Star Rating

If you would prefer to contact the vehicle manufacturer yourself, then note the following contact options below.

Manufacturers Contact Details

Manufacturer	Contact
DAF	[email protected]
Dennis Eagle	www.dennis-eagle.co.uk/USV
MAN	[email protected]
Renault	[email protected]
Scania	[email protected]
Volvo	[email protected]
Mercedes-Benz	[email protected]
Iveco	[email protected]

How is DVS enforced and how much are the fines?

DVS is implemented by a decriminalized Traffic Regulation Order. Should you not have a permit, a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) will be issued. £550 to the operator and £130 to the driver.

Make sure to fit a DVS solution to avoid the fines.

£550

to the operator

£130

to the driver

The Progressive Safe System (PSS)

From October 2024, TfL increased the minimum star rating required to obtain a DVS permit to 3 stars. The PSS requires you to fit the latest advancements in vehicle safety technology.

If your vehicle currently falls short of 3 stars, you will need to fit extra safety equipment to obtain a permit.

You may have fitted equipment before the Progressive Safe System was introduced. In this case, your vehicle might be below the minimum of three stars. You can contact Brigade to confirm whether you need to upgrade your vehicle. Alternatively, you can view our DVS compliant kits to see which kit you may need.

Learn more

Get Your Star Rating

How do I apply for a DVS Permit?

The permit application is free of charge and there is no requirement to display anything in the vehicle. ANPR cameras will detect your vehicle by scanning your number plate when travelling within Greater London. If you are unsure on how to apply for a DVS Permit, then continue reading below but if you are ready to apply, you can apply on TfL’s website by following the link below.

Learn More

Submit Application

Brigade’s DVS Kits

Brigade has compiled DVS compliant kits to help you get compliant. These kits are suited for both semi-trucks and straight trucks. Our kits include products for full DVS compliance, upgrading from 1 and 2 stars and for vehicles that already meet the 3-star requirement. If your vehicle is GSR compliant, then only a warning alarm and sticker will be required.

Achieve DVS compliance. Contact Brigade for a quote.

Please select to view ‘Right-hand Drive’ or ‘Left-hand Drive’ using the tabs above.

Full Progressive Safe System (DVS 2) Kit

Kit Model No: PSS-001
Kit Part No. 7679

For both RHD straight trucks and semi-trucks.

VBV-770HM: 7″ in-cab monitor with 3 camera inputs
VBV-3100C: Side cameras fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
RP-001: Radar Predict AI Sensor System
FR-001DVS: DVS Front Radar Sensor System or;
FR-30LDVS: DVS Offset Front Radar Sensor System
SS-BC-08: Side-turn warning alarms for cyclists /pedestrians.
A3 DVS Sticker

Other products included:

VBV-H405: 5 metre, Select range HD cable
TS-001ECU: Turn indicator trigger
TCO-47-01: Latched auto-reset alarm cut out (dash mount)
LS-60-A: Low speed trigger module

More info

DVS 2020 Upgrade to PSS 2024

Kit Model No: BSIS-MOIS-001
Kit Part No. 7675

For customers who currently already comply to DVS Phase 1 (Safe Permit) but need to upgrade to the PSS (Progressive Safe System)

VBV-770HM: 7″ in-cab monitor with 3 camera inputs
VBV-3100C: Side cameras fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
RP-010: Radar Predict AI Sensor System
FR-001DVS: DVS Front Radar Sensor System or;
FR-30LDVS: DVS Offset Front Radar Sensor System
bbs-82/12-24V: Turning warning for cyclists/pedestrians.
A3 DVS Sticker

Other products included:

VBV-H405: 5 metre, Select range HD cable
TS-001ECU: Turn indicator trigger
TCO-47-01: Latched auto-reset alarm cut out (dash mount)
LS-60-A: Low speed trigger module

More info

DVS 2020 Upgrade to PSS 2024

Kit Model No: BSIS-MOIS-010
Kit Part No. 7685

For customers who currently already comply to DVS Phase 1 (Safe Permit) but need to upgrade to the PSS (Progressive Safe System)

VBV-770HM: 7″ in-cab monitor with 3 camera inputs
VBV-3100C: Side cameras fitted to the nearside of the vehicle
RP-010: Radar Predict AI Sensor System
FR-001DVS: DVS Front Radar Sensor System
FR-30LDVS: DVS Offset Front Radar Sensor System
BBS-82: Turning warning for cyclists/pedestrians.
A3 DVS Sticker

DVS Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What products are required for a vehicle to meet a 1 star rating?

Fitting a product will not allow you to gain a star rating as this is based on direct vision alone and cannot change once vehicle has left the manufacturer.

Q. How long will a permit last?

Vehicle Star Rating	Permit Expiry	Certificate
0,1 & 2 (applying before June 2024)	27th Oct 2024	Will need to comply with the PSS requirements and re-apply
0,1 & 2 (applying from 24th June 2024)	28th Oct 2030	Will need to comply with the PSS requirements
3,4 & 5	28th Oct 2030	Can automatically apply

Q. Do I need all of the DVS requirements in order to be granted a permit if I have a 0, 1 or 2 star rated vehicle?

Yes, these include camera monitor system, sensors, audible warning alarm and a warning sticker.

Brigade has created a specially compiled Safe System Kit for operators. To find out more about our kits, please visit our DVS Safe System product page.

Q. What are the fundamental differences between a ‘safe system’ and a ‘progressive safe system'?

The safe system combines technologies widely seen in specs such as FORS and CLOCS. This includes sensors, camera monitor systems and audible warnings.

In February 2023, TfL consulted on the requirements of the DVS Progressive Safe System and these improvements will be published in summer 2023. From October 2024, all vehicles rated 0, 1 and 2 stars will need to comply with the DVS Progressive Safe System. It is proposed that this will include sensors on rigid vehicles that do not activate in relation to roadside furniture or stationary vehicles, sensors for articulated vehicles that must ensure full coverage of the nearside of the tractor unit and semi-trailer and a Moving Off Information System (MOIS) or front-detection system.

Q. If a truck meets DVS Star rating 3 or above, will FORS and CLOCS still demand camera systems? Or would they recognise the DVS Standards instead?

Statement from FORS: “We became aware of the DVS standards some time ago, so we were able to prepare FORS Standard Version 5 to include the following statement in requirement S6 (Vehicle Safety Equipment) –

“Where the driver has a full view of the nearside blind spot area by direct vision, such as a left-hand drive vehicle, the camera system and in-cab display screen are not required”.

“However, as a national scheme it’s important we don’t impose DVS standards on all operators across the UK so we’ll maintain the current requirement for vehicle safety equipment as per requirement S6. If the DVS rating proves to deliver the same level of safety then it will be an acceptable alternative”.

Brigade works closely with FORS and contributes to their working group which considers new legislative and technological developments. FORS is planning to align its specifications to accommodate this and an updated FORS spec will be released later in the year.

Q. If we purchase a new vehicle later this year or next year will the vehicle be fitted to the DVS requirements?

If you buy a vehicle that has a star rating of 1 or above, you will not need to fit devices for indirect vision to meet DVS requirements currently. However, the star rating will increase to 3 stars in 2024 and all vehicles rated 0, 1 or 2 stars will need to comply with the DVS Progressive Safe System. DAF currently line fits devices for indirect vision on its CF models to meet the safe permit requirements.

Q. Do 12t vehicles need to apply for a DVS permit?

No, vehicles under 12 tonnes are not required to apply for a permit.

Q. Which level of FORS offers the same as the DVS requirement – Bronze, Silver, Gold?

FORS Bronze does not for vehicles operating in Greater London only. FORS Silver is a higher spec than DVS.

Under current requirements, if you have FORS silver you meet the DVS safe permit. Under new proposals the schemes will require different products. FORS will be reviewed following release of the final DVS specification.

Product

Q. Does MirrorCam count as direct vision?

No, the Mirror cam is a device for indirect vision and will not meet compliance for direct vision or the safe permit.

Q. If an operator of a Renault Premium truck fits a lower door glass to the nearside door, will that suffice to qualify for a star rating?

No. If it is a 0 star rating the operator will need to fit the safe permit. The glass panel neither changes the star rating nor contributes to the safe system.

The spec mentions that there is a manual switch to enable the audible sound warning to be turned off during “night” hours – how do you ensure that this is turned back on again?

There are two options: a latched switch that means if you press the button it will mute until you push it again or rotate the ignition. Or a timer relay which will mute for between three or four minutes when the driver pushes it and it will automatically reset to the on position after that time.

Q. What changes, if any, are required to the trailer? It appears that this is limited to warning labels only.

Sensors are not required on the trailer. However, under current proposals operators will be required to fit sensor systems to cover trailers.

Q. Does the nearside camera require an MDR device as well?

Digital recording is not mandatory for DVS.

Q. Would all trailers be required to have the sticker for articulated vehicles?

Yes. Tractors for articulated vehicles are exempt from the warning signage but all trailers used with the tractor unit will be required to fit the stickers. This means for operators who use multiple trailers, they will be required to apply the stickers to each trailer.

From October 2024, it is proposed that a full coverage sensor system will also be required. These changes will be confirmed in summer 2023.

Q. Does the camera monitor have to be on permanently? Is it ok to use the vehicle's built in dash monitor, automatically switched on when signalling?

Camera systems are for low-speed manoeuvring. They can be triggered by the left turn indicator and can automatically switch off at speeds of 20 mph.

Fines

Q. It’s mentioned that both the operator and driver would be liable for a fine? £550 reduced to £225 if paid within 14 days. What would the driver be fined?

The driver would be fined £130 per day also reduced by half if paid within 14 days.

International

Q. What is happening internationally about vehicle safety?

Vehicle safety is a hot topic across the world right now. In Europe, the General Safety Regulation will came into force in 2022. All vehicles including; cars, vans, lorries and buses sold in Europe will be fitted as standard with a range of new vehicle safety features, including reversing and front detection systems, driver monitoring and event data recorders.

In Germany, the government has been providing incentives for operators who fit a package of safety systems similar to that required by DVS. Around the world similar mandatory requirements for blind spot elimination will come into effect from 2024 with detection ranges varying.

Q. Does the panel expect the DVS standards to filter down to vehicles below 12t and above 3.5t, and potentially to LCVs in the future?

The DVS standard may not affect vehicles below 12 tonnes, but new European legislation came into force in 2022 that required devices for indirect vision to be fitted as standard.

Q. Our company has UK registered left hand drive trucks. Some are less than one year old and have all the required mirrors fitted, but still have 0 star rating according to the manufacturer.

You need to contact the manufacturer to obtain the star rating or contact Brigade who provide a free service. If the star rating is 0, 1 or 2 you will need to obtain a safety permit. Fitting devices for the safe permit will not increase your star rating but will allow you to drive into Greater London.

Foreign registered trucks entering London will still need to apply for a permit or risk being fined.

Q. Where does product need to be fitted for left hand drive vehicles?

For left hand drive vehicles, mirrors, cameras and sensors should be fitted appropriately to account for the blind spot on the far right of the vehicle. A right turn audible alarm should also be fitted.

Miscellaneous

Q. Is there a case for cycle lanes to be moved to the middle of the road therefore putting them on the driver’s side and in maximum viewing proximity?

The government has announced a £2 billion project to increase cycling and walking so this may be one of the considerations.

Q. Is it common to fit audible turning warning to the N/S and the O/S? Turning right as well as left?otentially to LCVs in the future?

It is not required under DVS or FORS/CLOCs and although it is not common, some forward-thinking operators do. It is required on left-hand drive vehicles.

Q. Do PMI sheets need to be amended to include sensor operation etc?

This is down to the individual operator to decide, but we would recommend that the sensors are checked regularly and maintained e.g. kept clean.

Q. Are any other cities taking up the DVS Scheme?

Not yet.

Q. Will the over 12t requirement lead to an increase in vehicles at 11.99t GVW?

We don’t believe so. Many vehicles are now required to meet standards such as FORS or CLOCS and may already comply. Fitting vehicle safety devices is now commonplace to reduce insurance premiums, improve safety and reduce work related road risk.

Q. If operators hire a rental vehicle short term will these need to have the DVS safe system fitted or would there be a short-term period where its not required, e.g. for hires over 28 days?

No there is no exemption for hire vehicles.

Driver Overload

Six mirrors, a video screen in the cab with multiple images, a window in the lower door, plus light/audible warnings inside the cab. The driver has one pair of eyes and research shows it takes around a second to look in a mirror, focus on and interpret the image, so is anything going to be done about driver overload?

The trouble with direct vision alone is that if the driver is not looking they will not see. A combination of active and passive systems alerts the driver to look in their mirrors or camera system when there is something in their danger zone and eliminate the risk of driver error. This prevents the driver from constantly looking in their mirrors. The sensor system only alerts during low speed manoeuvring so it does not distract the driver at higher speeds. Systems such as Brigade’s Backeye 360 take four camera images and sew them into one birds-eye view so the driver has fewer images to process.

Motor Transport’s webinar, in partnership with Brigade Electronics, explored key questions and gave operators the opportunity to hear from a panel of experts on the topic.

Is the Direct Vision Standard the best way to go about reducing death and serious injuries on London’s roads?
What are operators’ options? What does a 1 star rating look like?
What is a DVS Safe System and how much does it cost?
By 2024 vehicles will need a 3 star rating so what is the most cost effective option in both the short and medium term?

The debate was hosted by MT editor Steve Hobson and featured key industry speakers and leading operators.

The webinar can be found below: