Limited Vehicle Length
The sign indicates a prohibition on traffic with vehicles or vehicle combinations exceeding a certain length. The maximum allowed length is specified on the sign.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should immediately determine whether your vehicle or vehicle combination exceeds the indicated length. If you are longer you must choose another route or stop and look for a detour; if you are within the limit you may continue but adjust your driving to account for the longer vehicle's turning radius and space requirements.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign prohibits traffic with vehicles or vehicle combinations that are longer than the length indicated on the sign.
- The indicated length refers to the vehicle's total length, meaning it includes the towing vehicle and any trailer or towed caravan.
- The prohibition applies from the sign's location and continues until the restriction is explicitly lifted by an end sign or another traffic regulation that changes the situation.
- Driving a vehicle that exceeds the indicated length may lead to fines or other traffic liability if the prohibition is disregarded.
Tips for Drivers
- Check the vehicle length in the registration document before driving; add together the towing vehicle's and the trailer's lengths so you know whether the restriction applies to you.
- If you are too long: plan an alternative route in advance or stop and find a detour before continuing to avoid having to reverse on a narrow road.
- Be extra careful at intersections and narrow sections of road after the sign; longer vehicles require a larger turning radius and can block the road if they get stuck.
- Professional drivers should have established routines to check length restrictions on routes, especially in built-up areas or near port and industrial zones.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign applies only to the towing vehicle and does not include trailers; the length restriction applies to the total length including any trailers.
- Assuming the sign is advisory rather than prohibitive; this sign is a prohibition sign and must be obeyed.
- Confusing a length restriction with signs for width or height limits and thus assessing the wrong type of obstacle.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Limited Vehicle Length
How should you act when you see this sign?
- A The vehicle's length must not exceed the specified measurement.
- B The vehicle's height must not exceed the specified measurement.
- C Only bicycles may pass.
- D You must keep the minimum distance to the vehicle in front.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked whether the length measurement includes trailers — the correct answer is yes: it is the vehicle's total length including any attached trailer or towed caravan.
Did You Know?
Restricted vehicle length (C18) is often used in older town centers, on narrow bridges and in tight industrial areas where long vehicles risk causing traffic jams or damage to infrastructure. The sign always shows the maximum permitted length in meters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply even if I only have a short trailer?
Yes. The sign concerns the vehicle's total length and includes all trailers or towed caravans. You must add the trailer's length to the towing vehicle's length to determine whether you may pass.
How do I know where the prohibition ends?
The prohibition applies from the sign until there is a sign that explicitly lifts the restriction or until the road layout changes in accordance with traffic rules. In practice it is usually lifted by an end sign or a new prohibition or instruction sign.
Can I get fined if I pass the sign even though I am too long?
Yes. Violating a prohibition sign that restricts vehicle length can result in fines or other legal liability. In addition, you risk causing traffic disruption or damage that may lead to further liability.
How precisely must I measure to determine whether I am allowed to drive through?
You should use the vehicle's registered total length as shown in the registration document; on-the-fly estimates are unreliable. If you are close to the limit, choose an alternative route to avoid the risk of exceeding the restriction.
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