Prohibition signs

What do prohibition signs look like?

Prohibition signs are round with a white background, red border and black symbols. There are exceptions to this rule of thumb. Prohibition signs forbid traffic of certain vehicles or specific manners of driving. The signs typically apply from the sign until the next intersection.

Height limit

The prohibition applies to vehicles, including their load, that are taller than indicated.

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Is the height limit sign important for the theory test and the practical driving test?

The height limit sign may not be one of the most important signs for the theory test or the practical driving test, but it is still important to know what it means. It is part of the curriculum and can be useful to you in certain situations. You should know what the sign means and where it is typically used.

What does the height limit sign mean?

The height limit sign shows that vehicles taller than a stated maximum height, including any load or freight, are not allowed to drive on the road. The sign is round, white with a red border, and the height is stated in meters in the middle (for example "3.5 m"). This means that both the vehicle and what you are carrying must be within the permitted height, and if the height is exceeded, you must find an alternative route.

Where do you find the height limit sign?

This sign is often used in places where there are physical obstacles that limit vehicle height, for example:

Tunnels – to avoid collisions with low ceilings.
Under bridges – where taller vehicles will not fit.
Parking garages and garages – with low ceiling height.

Picture of a height limit sign due to a bridge

What happens if you break the rule?

If you drive a vehicle that is taller than what is permitted, you can damage both the vehicle and things like tunnels, bridges, or other parts of the infrastructure. This can create dangerous situations, stop traffic, and lead to large repair costs.

Why is this sign important?

The sign is important to avoid damage to vehicles and infrastructure, as well as to maintain safe and efficient traffic flow. It ensures that vehicles do not attempt to pass places where it is physically impossible, which could lead to dangerous situations and obstructions in traffic.

The difference between height limit and width limit

The height limit sign shows how tall a vehicle (including load) can be in order to pass, for example under a bridge or through a tunnel.

The width limit sign shows how wide a vehicle (including load) can be in order to continue driving on the road.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the height limit sign

Does the height limit apply to loads on the roof? – Yes, the total height including the load must be within the limit.
What do I do if my vehicle is too tall? – You must find another route without a height restriction.
Can I apply for an exemption? – In special cases, transporters can be given permission to drive taller vehicles, but this requires approval from the road authorities.