Clear Width
The sign indicates clear width
When You See This Sign
When you see a clear width supplementary sign you should immediately determine whether your vehicle, including cargo and fixed attachments, fits within the indicated width. If you do not fit you must not drive forward but wait, choose another route or allow oncoming vehicles to pass.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign indicates the clear width in meters at the location where it is posted — the number shows the maximum free space between fixed obstacles.
- The vehicle's total width, including cargo and fixed attachments, must be taken into account; if your total width exceeds the indicated clear width you must not drive through.
- The supplementary sign is often used together with warning or prohibition signs and should be interpreted in conjunction with them if it is mounted under another sign.
- The rule applies to all road users who use the roadway or passage point where the sign is posted — you must adapt to the indicated clear width.
Tips for Drivers
- Know your vehicle's width before driving (including cargo, bike racks and other protruding parts) so you can quickly determine if you can pass.
- Reduce speed and center the vehicle in the passage to use the available clear width safely.
- If you are unsure whether you will fit, do not hesitate to stop and let oncoming vehicles pass or choose another route.
- Be especially cautious on narrow bridges, underpasses and roadworks where clear width signs often appear and the space can change.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the number indicates width per lane instead of the total clear width between obstacles.
- Underestimating the impact of cargo, bike racks or other accessories that increase the vehicle's total width.
- Assuming the sign is only informational and not complying with it when the vehicle's width actually exceeds the indicated clear width.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Clear Width
What does this sign showing a measurement in meters mean?
- A The sign indicates the clear width — the available passage width.
- B The sign shows the maximum allowed vehicle length.
- C The sign indicates the clear height under a bridge.
- D The sign shows the road's gradient in percent.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked what the number on a clear width sign refers to — answer that it is the maximum clear width between fixed obstacles and that the vehicle's width including cargo must be taken into account. Be especially attentive to questions asking whether mirrors and cargo are counted — they are.
Did You Know?
Clear width signs are often used on narrow bridges, tight passages and at roadworks where space is limited; they also occur as supplementary information at temporary narrowings and can be put up temporarily at work sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply to all vehicles?
Yes, the sign shows the clear width available at the location and applies to all vehicles; if your total width exceeds the indicated number you may not pass.
Are mirrors and cargo included in the measurement?
Yes, you must count the vehicle's total width including fixed accessories and cargo when assessing whether you can pass a signposted clear width.
Can a clear width sign be displayed alone or must it be mounted under another sign?
The sign is a supplementary plate and is often used under other signs but can also appear alone to inform about a narrow passage or restriction.
What should I do if I discover I'm too wide for the passage?
Stop before the passage, reverse back or choose another route. Do not wait inside a narrow passage; if possible let other vehicles pass first.
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