Teorio
Actual height
The sign may be integrated into a lane-transition board, lane-diversion board or lane board. In that case, the prohibition applies only to the respective lane for which the prohibition is ordered.
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When you see the Zeichen
Check whether the actual total height of your vehicle, including roof attachments and its load, exceeds the stated value. If the vehicle is higher or you cannot determine its height with certainty, you must not enter the restricted area and must choose another route in good time.
Rules
- The prohibition applies to every vehicle whose actual height, including its load, is greater than the height stated on the sign.
- The current total height is what matters, not just the vehicle height specified in the vehicle documents.
- Passenger cars can also be affected, for example by roof boxes, bicycles or other tall roof loads.
- If Zeichen 265 is integrated into a lane, lane transition or lane diversion sign, the prohibition applies only to the lane indicated there.
Tips
- Before driving a motorhome, van or vehicle carrying a roof load, determine the exact total height and record it somewhere clearly visible inside the vehicle.
- Pay attention to advance warnings so that you can still turn off safely before reaching a low bridge or underpass.
- If your height is close to the limit, plan an alternative route as a precaution, since the load, uneven road surfaces or measurement uncertainties may cause problems.
- Do not stop immediately in front of an underpass to measure the height if this would endanger traffic; find a safe place beforehand.
Common misunderstandings
- The sign is confused with a weight restriction. However, the number indicates a height in metres, not a mass in tonnes.
- Learner drivers consider only the vehicle height shown in the documents and forget about roof boxes, loads or other attachments.
- A sign integrated into a lane sign is mistakenly taken to apply to the entire carriageway, even though it only restricts the indicated lane.
Exam tip
Exam questions often show a passenger car with a roof load: Add the vehicle height to the additional height of the attachment or load. If the actual total height exceeds the value on the sign, passing through is prohibited.
Did you know
Zeichen 265 is typically placed before low bridges, tunnels and underpasses. The term “actual height” makes it clear that the vehicle’s current condition, including its load, is decisive.
Frequently asked questions
May I pass a sign showing 3.8 m with a vehicle that is exactly 3.8 metres high?
The prohibition applies to vehicles whose actual height exceeds the stated value. However, because of possible measurement inaccuracies, uneven road surfaces and vehicle movement, you should still choose another route if you are exactly at the limit.
Does a roof box or load on the roof count towards the vehicle height?
Yes. The actual total height, including all attachments and the load, is what matters.
Does Zeichen 265 apply only to lorries and buses?
No. It applies to all vehicles that exceed the stated height, including, where applicable, passenger cars, motorhomes or vehicles carrying a roof load.
What does Zeichen 265 mean when it appears within a lane sign?
In that case, the height restriction applies only to the lane to which the sign is assigned. Another lane that is appropriately open to traffic may be used, provided changing lanes is safe and permitted.
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Other Zeichen in the same category
Prohibition for vehicles of all kinds
Prohibition for motor vehicles
Prohibition for motor vehicles over 3.5 t
Prohibition for bicycle traffic
Prohibition for motorcycles
Prohibition for pedestrians
Prohibition for motor vehicles
Prohibition for motor vehicles carrying dangerous goods and subject to marking