The effects of DQ-T(direct quenching-tempering) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of 12MnNiVR steel were investigated. The results showed that the main structure is bainite when quenched directly to 300°C, and is martensite when quenched to 30°C. After the offline tempering, the original ribbon lower bainite organization is replaced by tempered sorbite and lots of tiny FexC particles precipitated. With the increase of temperature in tempering process, the yield strength and hardness sharply decreases, and the toughness (-20°C) increases. With the increasing of tempering time, the strength reduces and the toughness increases. With the optimum DQ-T process, the yield strength, tensile strength, elongation rate and impact energy (-20°C) are 660 MPa, 700 MPa, 19.4% and 104 J, respectively.