Prohibited for lorries and tractor units
The sign indicates that it is prohibited for lorries and tractor units.
When you see the sign
If you are driving a lorry or tractor unit, you must not pass the sign. Stop or choose another legal route without creating a hazard or obstructing other traffic; drivers of passenger cars and vans may normally pass unless a supplementary plate states otherwise.
Rules
- The prohibition applies to lorries and tractor units, including when the vehicle is towing a trailer or semi-trailer.
- Passenger cars, vans, buses, tractors, motorcycles and mopeds are not covered by the sign itself, unless other signage imposes a separate prohibition.
- A supplementary plate may limit the prohibition, for example to specific times, weight classes or vehicles without special permission.
- The prohibition applies from the place where the sign is located, in the direction of travel facing the sign.
Tips
- Check the vehicle category registered in the vehicle registration certificate if you are unsure whether it is a lorry or a van.
- Follow the indicated diversion early, especially near narrow city-centre streets, low underpasses or roads that cannot withstand heavy traffic.
- Always read the supplementary plate before choosing a route, as the prohibition may be limited by time or weight.
- Do not reverse or turn abruptly at the sign; find a place where the manoeuvre can be carried out legally and safely.
Common misconceptions
- Thinking that the sign prohibits all motor vehicles. It applies only to lorries and tractor units.
- Thinking that any car used to transport goods is a lorry. A van is normally not covered by this sign simply because it is used for goods transport.
- Overlooking supplementary plates that may change or limit who the prohibition applies to and when it applies.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign mean?
- AAll vehicles are prohibited.
- BLorries and tractor units are prohibited.
- CAll motor vehicles are prohibited.
- DTractors and motorised equipment are prohibited.
Medium
You are driving a lorry towing a trailer and encounter this sign without a supplementary sign. What must you do?
- AI may continue if the trailer is empty.
- BI may continue because I am towing a trailer.
- CI may continue if the load is secured.
- DI must choose another road.
Hard
You are driving a van loaded with goods and encounter this sign without a supplementary sign. What applies?
- AThe van may continue because it is not a lorry.
- BThe van must stop because it is used for transporting goods.
- CThe van must stop because it is considered a motor vehicle.
- DThe van may continue only if it is empty.
Theory test tip
In the theory test, the trap may be the difference between a lorry and a van. Look for the lorry symbol, and do not confuse the sign with a prohibition applying to all vehicles or all motor vehicles.
Did you know
The sign is often used to keep heavy goods traffic away from narrow city-centre streets, residential areas, weak bridges or roads with limited capacity.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pass in an ordinary passenger car?
Yes, a passenger car is not covered by the prohibition itself. However, check whether there are other signs or supplementary plates that also restrict passenger-car traffic.
Can I pass in a van?
Yes, normally, provided the vehicle is registered as a van and not as a lorry. The decisive factors are the vehicle category and any additional regulations, not merely its size or appearance.
Does the prohibition also apply to an empty lorry?
Yes. The prohibition follows the vehicle type and therefore also applies when the lorry is empty, unless a supplementary plate expressly limits the prohibition in another way.
What should I do if I notice the sign too late?
You must not pass it if you are driving a lorry or tractor unit. Stop safely and find a legal diversion or a safe place to turn around.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
Other signs in the same category
No entry
Prohibited for all vehicles
Prohibited for motor vehicles except small electric motor vehicles
Prohibited for small electric motor vehicles
Prohibited for all tractors and motorised equipment designed for a speed of less than 40 km/h
Prohibited for motorcycles and mopeds
Prohibited for cyclists and drivers of small electric motor vehicles
Prohibited for pedestrians