There are new safety standards that all lorry drivers in London need to know about, the HGV Safety Permit Scheme and Direct Vision Standard (DVS). They were set by Transport for London in March 2021 but changes are rolling out in October 2024.
If you’re an HGV driver in Birmingham, the West Midlands or beyond who drives through Greater London, here are the details on the Direct Vision Standard and HGV Safety Permit Scheme.
Why Are TfL Changing the Greater London HGV Rules?
The Mayor of London has set a target of reducing serious injuries and deaths on London’s roads and transport networks by 2041. The plan is called Vision Zero and there are several problem areas being targeted, including visibility for HGV drivers.
It’s well-known that there are significant blind spots around HGVs, and these can lead to higher risks for cyclists and pedestrians. TfL’s new Driver Vision Standards are aiming to improve the areas that HGV drivers can see.
What Are the Greater London Direct Vision Standard Requirements?
The DVS and HGV Safety Permit apply all across Greater London, but if you’re not sure if your route will take you through, you can check on the DVS Where and When map. Just enter the postcode to find out if the HGV Safety Permit rules will apply to your journey. The new lorry standards will apply 24/7.
Under the new rules, all lorries weighing more than 12 tonnes will be given a star rating between 0 and 5. HGVs rated 0 stars have the most limited direct vision, while those with the highest levels of direct vision earn a 5 star rating. If you’ve got a 0, 1 or 2 star rated vehicle, you’ll have to fit a Progressive Safe System to qualify for the new HGV Safety Permit and subsequently send off for your HGV Safety Permit.
When Are DVS Requirements Changing?
TfL’s new DVS requirements come into effect on 28th October 2024. If you’ve got a Safety Permit for any vehicles with a 0, 1 or 2 star rating, this will expire on 27th October 2024 and you’ll have to fit the Progressive Safe System. There’s a grace period which runs up until 4th May 2025, just in case you need more time to carry out the updates.
But it doesn’t apply automatically, you’ve got to apply through your London Road User account by telling TfL which vehicle is affected and giving them evidence that you’ve committed to having the system fitted. For instance, you can use a booking confirmation showing the date when the work is scheduled for.
How Do I Apply for the New London HGV Safety Permit?
It’s free to apply for the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) HGV Safety Permit, and you can apply on the TfL website. This will give you your vehicle’s star rating. Just enter your vehicle number plate and the country where it’s registered. There’s also a template you can use to apply for multiple vehicles at the same time, which can be used to apply for between 5 and 3000 vehicles.
What Happens if You Drive without the TfL Safety Permit?
If you drive HGV weighing over 12 tonnes GVW in Greater London, and you don’t have a permit, then you could be handed a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). The PCN can go up to £550, and TfL can revoke it or suspend it if they have reason to.
You’ve also got to comply with all the usual rules for lorry drivers, such as London’s LEZ, ULEZ and Congestion Charge, and holding an up-to-date Category C licence. If it’s time to renew your HGV driving licence, contact My Driver Medical to book a cheap driver medical in the West Midlands and across the country.