Warning of Narrowing Road
The sign warns of a section of road where the road becomes narrower.
When You See This Sign
When you see A5 you should slow down and assess the new lane width. Check your mirrors, adjust your position and be prepared to give way or let oncoming traffic pass if space becomes limited.
Rules & Regulations
- A5 is a warning sign indicating that the carriageway becomes narrower — it is a warning, not a priority sign.
- The sign normally means the road narrows from both sides; if only one side narrows there is a separate warning sign for that.
- When you see the sign you must adjust your speed and lane position to the new road width and be prepared to yield if space becomes limited.
- Always follow any supplementary instructions (e.g. yield, temporary traffic control, or lane direction arrows) that apply at the narrowing.
Tips for Drivers
- Slow down in good time and assess whether your vehicle fits without coming too close to the edge or oncoming traffic.
- Check mirrors and blind spots and communicate with other road users by keeping a steady course and, if necessary, signaling by easing off to show you intend to give way.
- Avoid overtaking at and just before a narrowing — many test questions emphasize that overtaking is often dangerous here.
- Keep extra watch for cyclists and pedestrians who may be affected when the roadway narrows, especially on country roads and bridges.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign automatically gives you priority — it does not.
- Beginning an overtaking maneuver immediately on seeing the sign even though space will soon become too tight.
- Underestimating how much space an oncoming truck or wide vehicle needs in narrowing sections.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Warning of Narrowing Road
What should you consider here?
- A The road narrows ahead — adjust your speed and watch for oncoming vehicles.
- B Entry is prohibited — the road is closed to all traffic.
- C The road splits into two lanes — choose a lane according to your destination.
- D There is a one-way road ahead — you may only drive in the indicated direction.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may be asked whether the sign changes priority — the correct answer is that it only warns. Be prepared for questions that compare this sign with one showing a narrowing on only one side.
Did You Know?
The warning sign for a narrowing road is often seen before narrow bridges, hazardous road sections in rural areas, and in older urban areas where there is no shoulder. For temporary narrowings at roadworks, a temporary version of the sign is often used together with barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does A5 mean I have priority at the narrowing?
No. A5 is only a warning. Priority is determined by other signs or road markings on site or by general right-of-way rules.
Does the narrowing always apply on both sides?
The sign normally indicates that the road narrows, usually from both sides. If the narrowing only applies to one side a different, specific warning sign is used.
Am I allowed to overtake after I have seen the sign?
Overtaking is not recommended at or just before a narrowing. You may only overtake if it is permitted, safe, and there is sufficient space for the entire narrow section.
How far before the narrowing is the sign placed?
Placement varies with road type and local environment and is shorter in urban areas than on country roads. The purpose is to give you reasonable time to notice and adjust your driving before the narrowing.
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