All lorries over 12 tonnes (GVW) entering or operating in Greater London will need to hold a valid Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and safety permit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)

Enforcement will be introduced from 1 March 2021. This was postponed to give affected businesses more time to meet the new standards as they face intense demands from the coronavirus pandemic.

Once enforcement starts, if you drive an HGV within Greater London without a valid permit you may receive a penalty charge notice (PCN) of up to £550 (reduced to £275 if paid within 14 days).

TFL can also revoke or suspend a permit if a vehicle that has been granted a permit is later found to be in breach of the permit terms.

The Direct Vision Standard measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows. This indicates the level of risk to vulnerable road users, such as people walking and cycling, near the vehicle.

The HGV safety permit scheme covers Greater London and will be in operation 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

HGV operators need to apply for a permit for their vehicles. You will be granted a permit if the vehicle meets the minimum DVS star rating. If your vehicle does not meet the minimum DVS star rating, you will need to make your vehicle safer by fitting it with Safe System improvements.

Vehicles registered outside the UK more than 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight entering or operating in London will also need to hold a valid permit.