Charlotte McGhie 2nd December 2021

Your Guide to the Direct Vision Standard

With demand for HGV drivers now higher than ever, professionals with an HGV licence are in an excellent position to find competitive job opportunities in their chosen area. Of course, before you can get the job of your dreams, you first need to ensure you understand the requirements companies now have for their HGV drivers. This includes staying up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes.

Introduced in March 2021, the new Direct Vision Standard and HGV safety permit outline specific rules for handling heavy goods vehicles. These guidelines dictate that all operators of vehicles over 12 tonnes in gross weight should have a safety permit before they operate in or enter greater London. Failure to have a safety permit can lead to a significant penalty charge notice.

What is the Direct Vision Standard?

The Direct Vision Standard concept introduced in 2021 measures how well an HGV driver can see through the cab windows. This helps to determine the level of risk to vulnerable road users, such as people cycling and walking near the vehicle.

The “DVS” or Direct Vision Standard was introduced alongside the HGV safety permit as part of the May of London’s plan “Vision Zero”. The strategy aims to eliminate all serious injuries and deaths on London’s transport network by 2041.

What is the HGV Safety Permit?

Regardless of whether the operator of the HGV considers the vehicles to meet the standards, all lorries over 12 tonnes in gross weight operating in or entering greater London will need to hold a valid HGV safety permit. This scheme covers most of the Greater London area, and is in operation 244 hours a day, at all times of the year.

Fortunately, applying for a permit is free, and the government offers extensive guidance for where the safety permit guidelines are in operation. You’ll be required to apply for a permit for your vehicle before you travel through the area. Notably, permits will only be granted if the vehicle meets the minimum DVS star rating.

If your vehicle doesn’t meet the DVS star rating, you’ll need to make it safer by fitting safe system improvements, or you risk getting a PCN.

Addressing Zero-Star Ratings and Self-Certification

If you need to apply for a permit for a single vehicle the government doesn’t currently hold details for, and you know the vehicle has a zero-star rating, you can still submit your application. You’ll simply need to upload a statement with your application, featuring your vehicle make or model details, your name, number plate, and a statement of self-certification.

Notably, a very small number of vehicles can request an exemption from the Safety Permit scheme, such as specialist construction vehicles. Additionally, if your vehicle is registered in the UK, it should be automatically exempt – but you should check the star rating of your vehicle to ensure you don’t need to contact the government before driving into Greater London. Penalties can be as high as £550.

Vehicles registered outside of the UK will need to hold a valid permit, and you will be asked for registration documents when applying. The “safe system” currently in place is set to be reviewed and updated in 2022, to consider any additional safety equipment or technology not currently on the market. Following October 2024, all HGVs rated under three stars will need to feature the Progressive Safe System.

After earning your HGV licence with us, make sure you protect your livelihood by staying up to date with the latest regulations and safety requirements.

Charlotte McGhie

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