Direct Vision Standard and The Grace Period
On 26 October 2020, the world’s first Direct Vision Standard (‘DVS’) was introduced by Transport for London (‘TfL’) to reduce the number of serious injuries and collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists with Heavy Good Vehicles (‘HGV’). The DVS requires a safety permit for all HGVs weighing over 12 tonnes which operate or enter Greater London at any time of the day or week.
Changes
On 28 October 2024, the next significant change is coming as the current one-star rating will be increased to three-star minimum requirement.
The permit was previously called a safety permit but now will be known as the Progressive Safe System (‘PSS’). This system requires the latest technology, meaning that some operators will need to upgrade their existing equipment.
PSS Equipment
In order to prove that you have complied with the PSS equipment, you must provide two photos showing that the equipment has been fitted:
- One with the nearside and front of the HGV with the numberplate in clear view.
- The second with the rear and nearside with the back numberplate in clear view.
Also, the DVS guidelines state that your vehicle must have an active sensor to alert the driver to the presence of vulnerable road users. This is all in addition to a camera to eliminate the nearside blind spot, external pictorial stickers to warn of the hazards, a front sensory system to detect blind spots within the front of the vehicle and an audible warning device so that pedestrians are aware of the vehicle’s intentions.
Grace period and how to apply for the grace period
The grace period of 6 months was given to the operators who operate a one-star or two-star vehicle and can provide evidence that installation works have been scheduled. You do need to apply for the grace period extension; it will not automatically apply to you. There are stages that you will go through and evidence that you will need to provide in order to qualify for the grace period.
You will need a London Road user charging account to apply for a grace period, with evidence that you have installed all the PSS equipment as named above, scheduled to be installed after 28 October 2024. There are a few acceptable forms of evidence, including appointment bookings, written confirmation, or the purchase of equipment that is arriving after 28 October 2024. You can apply for the grace period by logging in to your London Road User Charging account and following the instructions on the DVS enquiry form.
Charges and Penalties
The Penalty Charge for driving without a permit is £550.00 and up to £130.00 for the driver, even if the vehicle is 5* rated.
The permit is free of charge and can be applied for via the online TfL Application Form.
