Which sign marks the end of a restriction?

A restriction does not always end when the sign is no longer visible. It may end at a termination sign or under the rules for that type of restriction; check supplementary plates, junctions and any later signs.

The end-of-restriction sign

Many restrictions have a vertical end-of-restriction sign: a white circular sign with black diagonal stripes, showing the symbol of the restriction that is ending. The symbol helps you identify which rule is ending, such as a speed limit or no-overtaking restriction. Do not confuse it with a sign introducing a new restriction or with a supplementary plate limiting days or vehicle categories.

The end may also depend on the type of sign and the rules in the Highway Code and its regulations. Some restrictions apply until the next junction unless repeated; others may apply over a stated distance or end only at the corresponding termination sign. So do not apply a universal rule such as ‘every restriction ends after a junction’ without checking which sign you saw and how it was placed.

Before resuming a prohibited manoeuvre or increasing your speed, look for an end sign, a new limit or a plate stating the length of the restricted section. Check both sides of the road and temporary roadworks signs. If a sign is hidden or the sequence seems inconsistent, drive cautiously until the instruction is clear.

• Recognise the end-of-restriction sign: a white disc with black stripes and the symbol of the rule that has ended.
• Read the symbol inside it and any supplementary plates.
• When a restriction ends depends on its type and scope.
• Follow temporary signs and later signs introducing new limits.

Examples

A maximum speed limit may have a plate stating ‘for 2 km’. At the end of that section, that specific restriction ends, but you must still obey the general limit or any new sign. An end-of-speed-limit sign does not mean the road has no speed limit. Similarly, the end of a no-overtaking restriction does not allow you to overtake if visibility, road markings or other rules make it dangerous or prohibited.

In exam questions, first identify the type of sign, then consider which section and which vehicles it applies to. On the road, the signs actually in place and the current Highway Code take precedence over an answer remembered out of context.

To recognise restrictions and signs marking their end,Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers chapters, timed exam quizzes and a review of the answers you got wrong.