Direct Vision Standard 1st March 2021
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and safety permit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) requires operators of lorries over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight to apply and obtain a permit to enter or operate in Greater London, or you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice.
The legislation was originally due to come into affect in October last year, but has been moved forward to the 1st March 2021.
The direct vision standard safety permit applies to you if:
· You travel into the London low emission zone.
· Your HGV has a GVW of over 12 tonnes.
· And it operates on a 24/7 basis.
If all the above apply your HGV will need a direct vision star rating.
These are allocated from Zero up to Five stars.
To find out your direct vision star rating (or if you have one) you will need to check to see if the TfL has a rating for your vehicle at:
· tfl.gov.uk/direct-vision-permit
If the rating is not available for your HGV your next step is to email or phone the vehicle manufacturer giving your VIN number. This will give you a rating as the truck left the factory.
If it has a zero-star rating it will need to be fitted with additional safety equipment.
These are as follows:
· A class V mirror on the near side,
· A class VI mirror on the front.
· Lateral protection devices (unless impractical or impossible to fit).
· A driver alert sensor system to warn of the presence of vulnerable road users.
· Audible speaker warning when the vehicle turns left.
· Pictorial stickers displayed to warn vulnerable road users of hazards.
If your vehicle has a rating of 1 to 5 stars you can apply for a permit with no need to supply any additional evidence.
HGVs rated 1 or 2 stars can obtain a permit until 2024.
HGVs rated 3 to 5 stars can obtain a 10-year valid permit.
After 2024 the system will be tightened and only 3 star or above vehicles will be able to apply for a permit.
Vehicles that fail to qualify or operate without a licence from 1 March will be issued with a ￡550 Penalty Charge Notice (￡275 if paid within 14 days) for every day driven within the zone.
Permits are free to obtain and the application process is open..