Warning signs

What do warning signs look like?

Warning signs are triangular with a white background, red border and black symbols. There are exceptions to this rule of thumb. They alert you to particular dangers — places on the road where you need to be extra attentive and drive at a low enough speed to handle the hazard.

Warns of a tunnel

The sign warns that you are approaching a tunnel. It may appear abruptly or have special conditions, such as a very rapid transition from light to dark.

Warns of a tunnel

Is the tunnel warning sign important for the theory test and the practical driving test?

The tunnel warning sign is important both on the theory test and on the practical driving test. You may be asked what the tunnel warning sign means and when it is used. If you encounter the sign during the practical driving test you must show that you understand the sign and adjust your driving.

What is the tunnel warning sign?

The tunnel warning sign is a triangular warning sign with a white background, a red border, and a black symbol depicting a tunnel opening. The sign warns that you are approaching a tunnel where daylight does not illuminate the full length.

When do you encounter the tunnel warning sign?

This warning sign is often used:

When the tunnel first becomes visible at 150–250 meters away
When the tunnel is so long or positioned that daylight does not reach the full inside

In the picture you see the tunnel warning sign placed before a tunnel opening. The sign reminds you to slow down, turn on lights, and be prepared for darkness and a tight space.

Picture of the tunnel warning sign at a tunnel opening

What happens if you ignore the tunnel warning sign?

If you ignore the tunnel warning sign you may drive too fast into a dark area, experience a glare effect at the light opening, and risk collision with other vehicles or the wall. You can also be penalized if you do not use lights in the tunnel.

Why is the tunnel warning sign important?

The tunnel warning sign makes you reduce your speed, use lights, and drive carefully in tunnels. It increases safety, ensures good visibility, and prevents unwanted incidents inside the tunnel.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the tunnel warning sign

Do I have to turn on the lights in the tunnel? – Yes, you must use lights when it is dark, which includes tunnels.
How far before the tunnel does the sign apply? – The sign is usually placed 150–250 meters before the tunnel opening.
Does the tunnel warning sign apply to motorcycles and bicycles? – Yes, all road user groups must follow the warning and drive appropriately.
What does the supplementary sign 802 "Distance" under the tunnel warning sign mean? – It indicates the exact distance to the tunnel if the sign is not in its standard location.