Maximum width sign

What it means

No vehicle wider than the width shown may go beyond the sign.

The arrowheads point inwards across the number, showing a limit on width.

Most cars are well inside common limits, but vans, motorhomes, towing combinations and lorries may not be. If your vehicle is too wide, find another route before you reach the restriction.

Where you'll see it

Before narrow roads, gaps between bollards and width restrictions designed to keep large vehicles out.

Rules to know

• The sign means no vehicles over the maximum width shown, and the width may be shown in metric and imperial units.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 18

• Plates under prohibition signs can show exemptions, such as except for access.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 18

• You must obey traffic signs giving orders.

  The Highway Code, Rule 109

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Assuming it only applies to lorries.

  Instead: It applies to any vehicle wider than the width shown, including vans, motorhomes and wide trailers.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 1

What does this sign mean?

• AYou must not go faster than the number shown, in mph.
• BYou must not go slower than the speed shown, unless it's impracticable or unsafe.
• CNo vehicles wider than the width shown
• DYou must turn left at the junction ahead.

Ready for more? Take the Regulatory Signs Quiz