Subsidiary signs

What do subsidiary signs look like?

Subsidiary signs are square with a white background and black text. What's special about subsidiary signs is that they only apply when used together with a main sign. The subsidiary sign clarifies what the main sign means and where it applies.

Extent

The subsidiary sign indicates that the main sign applies to a specific stretch of road. The numbers indicate the distance to the beginning and the end of the stretch.

Extent

Is the extent subsidiary sign important for the theory test and the driving test?

Yes, the extent subsidiary sign is important for both the theory test and the driving test. You need to understand what it means and how it is used together with the main sign. On the theory test you may get questions about how distances are indicated on the subsidiary sign, and during the driving test you must be able to interpret the sign correctly in order to drive safely and follow the traffic rules.

What does the extent subsidiary sign mean?

The "extent" subsidiary sign is a sign used to give information about how far a main sign applies. It shows two numbers: the first number indicates the start of the stretch, and the second number indicates the end. The format of the numbers depends on the length of the stretch. If the stretch is under one kilometer, the format "0.3" is used. If the stretch is over one kilometer, the format "1.5" is used. This makes it easy for the driver to understand how long they need to be aware of what the main sign is warning about.

The subsidiary sign is often used together with warning signs, for example signs that warn about dangerous curves or slippery roads. It can also be used with prohibition signs such as "no overtaking" or "no turning". The rules for when the subsidiary sign must be used depend on the speed limit and the length of the stretch. For example, it must be used if a hazard applies for more than 300 meters at lower speed limits, or more than 500 meters at higher speed limits.

Extent subsidiary sign with a warning sign

Why is the extent subsidiary sign important for traffic safety?

This subsidiary sign is useful because it gives you a clear understanding of how long you need to pay attention to a hazard or follow a prohibition. The two numbers on the sign make it clear where the stretch starts and ends. For example, if you see a sign warning about a slippery road and the subsidiary sign says "0.0–0.5 km", you know that you must be extra careful for the first 500 meters. If it says "1.0–2.5 km", you know that the stretch applies from one kilometer to two and a half kilometers ahead. This makes traffic safer for everyone.