Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers risk fines of up to £550 if they don’t comply with new driving regulations starting next week. By Monday, May 5, all HGV operators must install a Progressive Safe System and secure a safety permit to legally drive in and around London.

Transport for London (TfL) assigns star ratings to HGVs through the Direct Vision Standard (DVS), which evaluates how much of the road and nearby areas a driver can see directly through their cab windows. Operators who were granted a grace period now have until 11:59 p.m. on May 4, 2025, to follow the updated rules.

HGVs weighing over 12 tonnes must either have a three-star DVS rating or be fitted with a Progressive Safe System to continue operating in Greater London. Those who don’t meet these criteria will face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).

Driving an HGV in Greater London without a valid permit can lead to a PCN of up to £550, which reduces to £275 if paid within 14 days.

The goal of this scheme is to lower deaths and injuries on London roads by ensuring HGVs meet minimum safety standards before entering most parts of the city. TfL uses the DVS rating to improve visibility from the driver’s cab, helping protect cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users.

HGV operators need to apply for a permit for each vehicle. TfL will issue a permit if the vehicle meets the required DVS star rating.

If a vehicle falls short of the DVS threshold, operators must enhance safety by installing Progressive Safe System features to qualify for a permit.

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