Understanding vehicle star ratings for DVS compliance

From October 2024, HGVs operating in Greater London rated zero to two stars require additional safety equipment, making understanding these ratings more important than ever (TfL, 2024).

If fleet managers are unclear about the rating of their HGVs they are putting themselves at risk of fines and legal repercussions. To help prevent this, let’s clarify what each DVS rating means, the purpose of these standards, and how to ensure your fleet stays compliant.

What are DVS vehicle star ratings?

The DVS was developed to improve safety on London’s roads, specifically for vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists. DVS star ratings measure the level of direct vision an HGV driver has from their cab - essentially, how much the driver can see directly outside the vehicle without relying on mirrors or cameras.

These star ratings range from zero (low-vision) to five (high-vision) and apply to most HGVs weighing over 12 tonnes operating in the London area - there are some exemptions which can be found in the Direct Vision Standard: Guidance for operators. The rating is based on the vehicle’s design and assigned by the manufacturer, making it specific to each model and unchangeable.

A common misconception among fleet managers is overestimating the star ratings of their vehicles, leading to many mistakenly believing their vehicles meet DVS requirements when they do not. Star ratings can easily be checked via the TfL’s portal.

Understanding DVS vehicle star ratings

Vehicles that receive a DVS rating of zero, one, or two stars are considered low in direct vision, meaning drivers have limited visibility from their cab. To meet compliance standards for these lower-rated vehicles, a Progressive Safe System (PSS) must be installed.

PSSs improve the driver’s field of vision by using Camera Monitoring Systems (CMS) and extra mirrors to expand the visible range and eliminate blind spots. They also include sensors that will alert drivers to potential collisions.

For vehicles rated at three stars or above, no additional safety modifications are required to achieve DVS compliance. These higher-rated vehicles already provide an acceptable level of direct vision, which supports safer driving and reduces risk. However, even if not required by the DVS, all HGVs can benefit from additional visibility, safety tools and a PSS.

For further details on DVS compliance requirements and the latest star rating standards, refer to TfL’s Direct Vision Standard Guide.

Fleetclear’s role in keeping your fleets DVS compliant

Fleetclear offers dedicated support to help fleet managers navigate and meet DVS compliance requirements, from essential safety equipment installation to providing evidence to TfL.

PSS installation

For vehicles rated between zero and two stars, compliance with DVS standards requires the installation of a PSS.

Fleetclear’s Progressive Safe System (PSS) offers a straightforward and quick solution - it encompasses the required Moving Off Information System (MOIS) and the Blind Spot Information System (BSIS) to ensure your vehicles are fully DVS compliant. 

Our PSS includes sensors, cameras, and vocal alerts which compensate for visibility gaps and ensure that drivers are more aware of their surroundings. Our PSS installations are designed to meet all current safety standards, providing fleet managers with peace of mind and a safer fleet on the road.

Certification and proof of compliance

TfL requires fleets to submit proof of DVS compliance, Fleetclear can provide all the necessary documentation to demonstrate this. This includes certificates and detailed installation photos, showing that the required safety systems have been correctly installed. 

“With the advent of the new DVS regulations, we have noticed some confusion amongst fleet managers about which vehicles are in scope. If you’re not sure what the star rating of a vehicle is, you can contact the vehicle manufacturer or use TfL’s online tool to check.  At Fleetclear we can help companies achieve compliance quickly and easily.” - Emma Poore, Sales Manager, Fleetclear

Don’t let misunderstandings about ratings put your fleet at risk - Contact us today or call our team on +44 (0)1386 630 155.

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