Displaying a silhouette of a lorry inside a red circle, this sign prohibits heavy commercial goods vehicles from using the designated route.
It protects residential roads, historic village centres, narrow bridges, and weak structures from structural damage, excessive noise, and traffic congestion.
What this sign means
Goods vehicles exceeding the gross weight limit displayed on the sign (or standard HGV weight classifications if unstated) are banned.
Passenger cars, light commercial vans, buses, and agricultural vehicles are generally unaffected unless specifically named.
- Lorry silhouette enclosed in a red prohibition ring.
- Often accompanied by weight limit plates (e.g., '7.5t').
- Restricts heavy goods transport on unsuitable roads.
What to do when you see it
If operating an HGV over the specified weight limit, do not proceed; follow advisory lorry routes.
If driving a standard passenger car or light van under 3.5 tonnes, you may continue normally.
How this sign is tested
DVSA theory test questions check whether car drivers understand which road users are restricted by this sign.
Questions often test weight thresholds and exception plates like 'Except for loading'.
Common mistakes
Car drivers sometimes panic and think the lorry symbol applies to all large vehicles, including large passenger cars or SUVs.
HGV drivers failing to check supplementary weight plates and accidentally breaching local weight restrictions.
Test yourself on this one
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Practise road sign questionsFrequently asked questions
Does a No HGVs sign apply to motorhomes?
No, standard motorhomes are classed as private passenger vehicles, not heavy goods vehicles.
What does an 'Except for access' plate mean for HGVs?
It allows HGVs to enter the zone solely to make local deliveries or collections.
What is the standard default weight threshold for HGV restriction signs?
The standard threshold is 7.5 tonnes maximum gross weight unless otherwise specified.