Traffic signsSpain

It prohibits vehicles whose total height exceeds the displayed value from continuing beyond the sign.

It is commonly a circular regulatory sign showing a height in metres, feet or another local unit between vertical arrows.

The height includes the vehicle, its load and any attached equipment, such as roof boxes, bicycles, machinery, antennas or raised loading equipment.

Yes. Every part of a vehicle combination must fit beneath the restriction, including the towing vehicle, trailer and load.

Not necessarily. Road authorities may display a lower value than the measured clearance to provide a safety margin.

The legal wording commonly prohibits vehicles higher than the displayed value, but drivers should not attempt to pass without a practical safety margin. Measurement errors, movement and road conditions can reduce the available clearance.

Loading, tyre pressure, suspension settings, raised equipment, replacement tyres and road movement can alter the vehicle’s total height.

Yes. The vehicle may rise or lower depending on its suspension mode, speed and load. Use the maximum travelling height when planning the route.

Yes. An arched bridge, tunnel roof or overhead structure may provide different clearance in each lane. Follow lane-specific signs and markings.

Yes. Clearance may be lower near the edge of an arch or where the road slopes sideways. Remain within the authorised marked path.

Yes. A new road surface can raise the road level and reduce the space beneath a bridge or structure.

Yes. Material on the road can raise the vehicle or restrict the usable route. Flooding may also conceal the road surface or another hazard.

They are common at bridges, tunnels, car parks, loading areas, gateways, railway structures and roads with overhead equipment.

It is normally a prohibition. A vehicle that exceeds the displayed height may not pass.

No. The applicable road or posted speed limit remains in force, although drivers should approach cautiously.

No. Traffic lights, priority signs and ordinary priority rules remain applicable.

Yes. An advance sign may show the restriction and the distance to it so that high vehicles can choose another route.

Do not continue. Stop where safe and follow the signed diversion or another suitable route. Do not reverse into traffic without assistance.

No. Navigation may contain outdated or incomplete vehicle restrictions. Traffic signs and the actual road conditions always take precedence.

Yes. Drivers of trucks, buses, motorhomes and vehicles carrying roof loads should know and, where useful, display the vehicle’s maximum travelling height inside the cab.

Stop before the restriction in a safe place and verify the vehicle’s height. Choose another route when safe clearance cannot be confirmed.

Only when signs and markings permit it and the manoeuvre can be completed safely. Do not cross a closed lane, continuous line or opposing traffic merely to gain clearance.

Only in a safe place and when the equipment can be secured correctly afterwards. Never stop beneath the structure or in a live lane to alter the vehicle.

Stop immediately where safe, activate the hazard warning lights and contact the emergency services or police. Do not continue because the vehicle, load or structure may be unstable.

No, when damage may have occurred. Keep away from the structure and follow instructions from the police, road authority or railway operator.

A selective barrier is a physical access-control device that blocks some traffic while allowing specified road users or authorised vehicles to pass.

Common examples include fixed bollards, removable posts, folding posts, retractable bollards, gates, rising barriers and width-filtering installations.

They may prevent through traffic, protect pedestrian or cycling routes, control access to restricted areas or allow only residents, public transport, deliveries or emergency services to enter.

Not normally. The permitted users are determined by traffic signs, permits, access systems and local regulations.

Only when cycling is permitted and sufficient safe space is provided. Cyclists must follow the signs applying to the road or path.

Pedestrians may pass where pedestrian access is permitted and a safe route is available. They should not walk beneath a moving gate or through a vehicle-only opening.

Only when motorcycles are legally permitted beyond the barrier and the opening is intended for them. Being physically able to fit through does not create permission.

Emergency vehicles may have keys, remote controls, automatic recognition or another authorised method of opening the barrier. Other road users must keep the access clear.

They may enter only when local access rules, permits or traffic signs authorise them. Permission may apply only during specified hours.

A retractable bollard is a post that can rise from or lower into the road surface to control vehicle access.

It may operate through a badge, remote control, access code, number-plate recognition, timer, control centre or automatic detection system.

Only after confirming that you are authorised and the bollard is fully lowered. Do not move merely because another vehicle has activated it.

No, unless your own access is also authorised and the system clearly permits it. The barrier may rise immediately after the first vehicle.

Red lights normally require road users to stop, while another signal may indicate when passage is permitted. Follow the displayed signals and local instructions.

Stop at a safe distance and wait until it has completed its movement. Never drive, cycle or walk beneath a moving gate or across a rising bollard.

Do not force, move or drive around it. Use the intercom or contact the operator, road authority or emergency service indicated at the location.

No, unless you are specifically authorised. Removing or repositioning access-control equipment may create danger and allow prohibited traffic to enter.

No. Traffic signs and access restrictions remain applicable even when the physical barrier is temporarily open or lowered.

No. An open physical barrier does not cancel a regulatory traffic sign.

Not by itself. Drivers must follow the applicable speed limit and approach slowly enough to stop before the installation.

No. Traffic lights, priority signs and ordinary priority rules remain applicable unless another traffic arrangement indicates otherwise.

Do not stop or park where the vehicle would block authorised access, emergency services, pedestrians or cyclists.

They may be difficult to see, especially in darkness, congestion or poor weather. A collision can cause a rider to fall into nearby traffic or other obstacles.

Reduce speed, identify the intended opening and pass through in a straight and controlled line. Avoid overtaking another cyclist at the barrier.

Approach slowly, wait for the access system to respond and check for pedestrians and cyclists before crossing their route.

Stop safely, activate the hazard warning lights where appropriate and report the collision. Do not continue if the vehicle, barrier or access system may be damaged.

Traffic lights are signals that use coloured lights, arrows or road-user symbols to regulate traffic movements.

A red light requires road users to stop before the stop line or signal and remain stopped until movement is permitted.

A steady amber light normally requires drivers to stop unless they are already too close to stop safely. It warns that the signal is changing to red.

A green light permits road users to pass the signal, but only when the route is clear and the intended movement is otherwise legal.

No. You may still have to give way to pedestrians, cyclists, oncoming traffic or other road users when turning or following a conditional arrow.

No. Do not enter when congestion is likely to leave you stopped inside the intersection and obstructing crossing traffic.

Stop before the stop line. When no stop line is provided, stop before the traffic light or at another legally prescribed position.

No. The required stop must normally be completed before the stop line. Do not stop on a pedestrian or cycle crossing.

Stop when this can be done safely. Continue only when you are already too close to stop without creating danger.

No. Do not accelerate to avoid stopping. Maintain control and stop unless doing so safely is no longer possible.

They have the same general meaning as circular lights, but the prohibition or permission applies only to the direction shown by the arrow.

It may permit travel in the indicated direction while other movements remain prohibited. Drivers may still have to give way to conflicting traffic and pedestrians.

Not universally. Drivers must follow the complete local sign arrangement. A traffic signal does not necessarily cancel a separate regulatory prohibition.

Only where local law or a specific sign or signal expressly permits it. There is no universal right to turn on red.

It warns of a potential hazard and normally allows cautious passage. The ordinary priority arrangement remains applicable.

Reduce speed, observe the intersection carefully and follow the applicable priority signs or default priority rules.

Its meaning depends on local law. At railway crossings and some movable bridges, flashing red lights normally require road users to stop.

A red cross normally closes the lane, a green downward arrow opens it and an amber diagonal arrow instructs drivers to leave the lane in the indicated direction.

No. Move out of the lane safely before reaching the red cross unless an authorised person or emergency rule directs otherwise.

It warns that the lane is closing or unavailable ahead. Drivers must move into the adjacent lane indicated by the arrow when safe.

Yes. A signal displaying a bicycle symbol applies to the road users legally covered by that signal rather than to general motor traffic.

Yes. Pedestrian lights normally use red and green human figures to indicate whether pedestrians may begin crossing.

It normally warns that the crossing period is about to end. Pedestrians who have not started should wait for the next green signal.

A person who entered lawfully should continue without unnecessary delay. Turning drivers must allow the crossing to be completed safely.

Yes. Public-transport signals may use bars, circles, triangles or other symbols that apply only to authorised service vehicles.

They commonly replace the priority arrangement at that location. Priority signs may apply again when the normal signals are inactive or flashing.

Yes. Instructions from an authorised traffic controller normally take precedence over lights, signs, markings and ordinary rules.

Reduce speed and follow the priority signs, temporary signals, authorised personnel or default priority rules that apply.

Yes, when you entered lawfully and must leave the intersection. Complete the movement cautiously without endangering other road users.

No. Drivers may proceed but must continue at a safe and legal speed.

This depends on local law. In many countries, a driver temporarily stopped in traffic is still considered to be driving and may not use a handheld device.

A traffic lights warning alerts drivers that traffic signals are located ahead.

It may be used where traffic lights are unexpected, difficult to see sufficiently early or located on a road where advance warning improves safety.

Remain alert, reduce speed when necessary and be prepared to stop at the traffic lights or behind waiting traffic.

Pedestrian lights are traffic signals that indicate when pedestrians may begin crossing a road.

They commonly display a red standing person and a green walking person. Their design may vary between countries.

It means that pedestrians must not begin crossing.

It means that pedestrians may begin crossing, provided they still observe the road and cross without unnecessary delay.

No. Turning vehicles, emergency vehicles or traffic following another authorised signal may still cross the pedestrian route. Pedestrians should remain attentive.

It normally warns that the permitted crossing period is about to end. Pedestrians who have not started should consider waiting for the next green signal.

Its meaning varies between countries. It commonly means that pedestrians must not begin crossing, while those already on the road should finish without delay.

A countdown may show approximately how much time remains before the signal changes. It does not remove the duty to cross cautiously.

Begin only when there is enough time to cross safely and without stopping unnecessarily on the road. Waiting for the next green phase may be safer.

Continue crossing at a normal pace towards the nearest safe side. Do not turn back suddenly, stop unnecessarily or run into another traffic stream.

Yes. Drivers should allow pedestrians who entered lawfully to complete the crossing safely, even when vehicle traffic receives permission to proceed.

Some signal systems permit turning vehicles and pedestrians at the same time. Turning drivers must give way where required and must not endanger pedestrians.

It is a signal phase during which conflicting vehicle movements are stopped so pedestrians can cross without permitted traffic turning across their route.

It is a phase in which pedestrians may cross several or all approaches while vehicle traffic is stopped. Diagonal crossing is permitted only when the signals and markings allow it.

They may indicate that the same pedestrian signal applies simultaneously to several crossing directions. The exact meaning depends on local law.

Check that approaching and turning vehicles are stopping and that the route is clear. A green signal does not make a collision impossible.

Yes. They should proceed at a normal pace and should not linger, stop unnecessarily or obstruct traffic on the crossing.

Pedestrians may have to follow the traffic lights controlling vehicles, an authorised officer or the ordinary pedestrian-crossing rules.

A push button normally registers a request for a pedestrian crossing phase. Pressing it does not itself permit crossing; pedestrians must wait for the appropriate signal.

Normally not. Once the request has been registered, additional presses usually have no effect.

Audible signals use sounds to help pedestrians with visual impairments identify when crossing is permitted or when the signal is changing.

Tactile signals may use a vibrating button, rotating cone or raised markings to provide crossing information to pedestrians with visual impairments.

Not normally. A cyclist riding a bicycle must follow the applicable cycle or vehicle signal unless a combined pedestrian-and-cycle signal applies.

A person walking beside a bicycle is normally treated as a pedestrian and follows the pedestrian signal.

They display pedestrian and bicycle symbols and apply to the road users indicated by those symbols.

No. Instructions from an authorised traffic controller normally take precedence over pedestrian lights.

Cross only according to the functioning vehicle signals, priority rules and instructions from authorised personnel. Proceed cautiously and take approaching traffic into account.

A driving licence is an official authorisation to drive specified categories of motor vehicle.

The terms may refer to the same document, depending on the country. Some countries use permit specifically for learners or temporary authorisations.

A provisional or learner licence allows a person to practise driving under specified restrictions before obtaining a full licence.

A full licence is issued after the holder has completed the required tests or training. Restrictions may still apply because of age, vehicle type, medical fitness or licence codes.

No. Driving licences are divided into categories for motorcycles, cars, buses, trucks, trailers and other vehicles.

A licence category identifies the type and size of vehicle the holder is authorised to drive.

Yes. Holding a licence for one category does not normally authorise driving a vehicle belonging to another category.

Yes. Codes may restrict the holder to an automatic transmission, corrective lenses, an adapted vehicle or another specified condition.

In some countries, passing the test in an automatic vehicle restricts the holder to automatic vehicles until an additional test or procedure is completed.

Usually, yes. The document, individual categories or medical authorisation may have expiry dates and require renewal.

No. The licence and the category required for the vehicle must remain valid.

This depends on local law. Many countries require drivers to carry the original licence and present it to an authorised officer when requested.

Not normally. A photograph, scan or photocopy is not generally a substitute for the original document unless an official digital-licence system is legally recognised.

No. It proves driving authorisation, not ownership, registration or insurance.

Requirements may include a theory test, eyesight test, practical driving test, medical examination or compulsory training.

No. Minimum ages differ between countries and vehicle categories.

Only where the provisional-licence system permits independent driving. Other learners must be accompanied by an approved supervisor or instructor.

Often not. Provisional and learner licences are frequently valid only in the country or region that issued them.

An international driving permit is a standardised translation of a valid national licence intended to help authorities interpret it abroad.

No. It normally has legal value only when presented together with the valid national driving licence on which it is based.

This depends on the destination, length of stay, residence status and agreements between the countries concerned. An exchange or international permit may be required.

Some countries exchange recognised foreign licences without new tests, while others require theory, practical or medical examinations.

Yes. A medical condition may require an assessment, shorter validity period, adapted vehicle or licence restriction.

This depends on local law. Drivers remain responsible for ensuring that they are physically and mentally fit to drive safely.

Often, yes. Drivers of trucks, buses, taxis or vehicles used commercially may require professional competence, medical examinations or periodic training.

The holder may not drive during the suspension period, even if the physical document remains in their possession.

Disqualification is a legal prohibition on driving, usually imposed by a court or competent authority for a specified period or until conditions are fulfilled.

Report it where required and apply for a replacement through the competent licensing authority. Do not continue driving when local law requires the original document to be carried.

Request a replacement when the document is unreadable, damaged or no longer allows the holder to be identified reliably.

This depends on the country and whether the address appears on the licence. Drivers must follow the local notification and replacement procedure.

A road location marker is a numbered reference point identifying a measured position along a particular road or route.

A kilometre marker indicates the number of kilometres measured from an established starting point on the road.

A hectometre marker identifies a position at intervals of 100 metres. One kilometre contains ten hectometres.

It normally identifies a point approximately 14 kilometres and 700 metres from the route’s reference origin.

No. It normally measures the position along the road from a fixed reference origin rather than the remaining distance to a destination.

It begins at a reference point chosen for that road, such as the start of the route, a border, an administrative boundary or another officially defined origin.

No. It increases in the officially defined direction of the route. Drivers travelling in the opposite direction may see the values decrease.

It may appear as a numbered roadside post, small sign, plate, marker attached to a barrier or numbers painted beside the carriageway.

Many countries use kilometre markers, while countries using imperial measurements may use mile markers. Designs and intervals differ.

They are intended to represent 100-metre intervals, but their physical placement and permitted tolerances depend on the road authority and local conditions.

Give the road number, marker value, direction of travel and nearest junction or landmark where possible.

The same kilometre value may occur on many different roads. The road number identifies which route the marker belongs to.

Divided roads have separate carriageways. Reporting the direction helps emergency services approach the correct side without making a long diversion.

Yes. Reporting the nearest marker can help breakdown and emergency services identify the affected road section more accurately.

Yes. The marker can help road authorities locate an obstruction, damaged barrier, animal, collision or other dangerous situation.

Normally not. It is a reference or identification device rather than a regulatory sign.

No. The applicable speed comes from general traffic rules and regulatory speed signs.

No. Traffic lights, priority signs and ordinary intersection rules remain applicable.

No. Passing a kilometre or hectometre marker does not normally begin or end a traffic regulation.

Yes. Road authorities use reference points to locate signs, barriers, bridges, defects, works and other infrastructure precisely.

Coordinates can be useful, but a road reference marker may be easier for road operators and emergency services to connect with the correct carriageway and road section.

Use the nearest visible marker together with the road number, direction, junctions and other identifiable features.

No. Do not stop in a live lane or another prohibited location. A passenger may note the marker, or the driver may read it after stopping somewhere safe during an actual emergency.

Normally not. Temporary traffic routes may move traffic away from the marker’s usual position, but the official road reference system generally remains unchanged.

Countdown markers are a series of signs that progressively indicate how close a driver is to an upcoming exit, junction, crossing or other important point.

The number of bars normally decreases as the driver approaches the indicated location. Depending on the country, the bars may represent fixed distances or simply successive stages of the approach.

They are commonly associated with motorway exits, major junctions and railway crossings, although their use and design differ between countries.

A traffic mirror is a convex roadside mirror that helps road users see around an obstruction or into a road with limited visibility.

They may be placed near intersections, narrow roads, bends, car-park exits, private driveways, tunnels or other locations where buildings, vegetation or road geometry obstruct the view.

A convex surface provides a wider field of view than a flat mirror, allowing more of the approaching road to be seen.

No. The reflected image is distorted, and objects normally appear smaller and farther away than they really are.

Not reliably. The curved image makes it difficult to estimate how fast another road user is approaching.

No. Distance can appear greater than it really is, so an approaching vehicle may reach the intersection sooner than expected.

Yes. Its position and viewing angle may leave parts of the road outside the reflected image. Small cyclists, motorcycles or pedestrians may also be difficult to notice.

No. It does not change priority. Drivers must continue to follow stop signs, give-way signs, traffic lights and the ordinary priority rules.

No. Another road user may be outside the reflected area, hidden by glare or too small to notice. Always check the road directly before proceeding.

Yes. The mirror does not replace the mandatory complete stop. Stop at the prescribed position, then use direct observation and the mirror as additional information.

Yes. You may proceed only when traffic with priority can continue without being forced to brake, stop or change direction.

Approach slowly, stop when required and scan the mirror for movement. Then look directly in both directions and continue only after confirming that the road is clear.

No. Alternate between the mirror and direct observation. The mirror should supplement rather than replace normal checks.

Yes. Rain, water droplets and spray may blur or partially obscure the reflected image.

Yes. Dew, condensation, frost, ice or snow may make the mirror difficult or impossible to use.

Yes. Sunlight may create glare or reflections that hide approaching road users.

Yes. Reflected headlights may make it difficult to determine the exact direction, distance or speed of an approaching vehicle.

Yes. Wind, impacts, vandalism, vibration or temperature changes may alter its orientation and make the reflected view inaccurate.

Do not rely on it. Proceed with additional caution and report the defect to the responsible road authority or property owner.

No. The applicable road or posted speed limit remains in force, but restricted visibility normally requires a lower approach speed.

No. Use the horn only where local law permits it and a warning is reasonably necessary to prevent danger.

Yes. It may help them observe approaching traffic, but they must also look directly and follow the applicable crossing and priority rules.

A mirror may generally be installed on private property with the owner’s permission, subject to local rules. Installing one on, above or beside a public road normally requires permission from the road authority.

No. Removing vegetation, relocating parking, improving the intersection layout or changing traffic circulation may provide a safer and more reliable solution.

An international border is the legal boundary between two countries.

It may be identified by a country-name sign, national or regional symbols, flags, border posts, customs facilities or passport-control signs.

No. Borders may be marked differently, and some minor roads or open-border areas may have only a small identification sign or boundary marker.

Not normally. Stop only when required by traffic lights, barriers, officers, customs signs, passport controls or another instruction.

The new country’s traffic laws apply from the international boundary, not merely from the next town or major intersection.

No. The rules change because you have entered another country. The sign identifies that change of jurisdiction.

Yes. Where neighbouring countries use different driving sides, a specially designed road arrangement guides traffic safely from one side to the other.

Yes. The destination country may have different general limits for motorways, built-up areas, rural roads and particular vehicle categories.

No. Drivers must learn the destination country’s general limits and obey any regulatory signs displayed after crossing.

Yes. Colours, symbols, shapes and road-marking conventions may differ, even when neighbouring countries follow similar international standards.

Yes. Requirements concerning safety vests, warning triangles, winter tyres, lights, toll equipment or environmental stickers may differ between countries.

Depending on the journey, drivers may need a passport or identity card, driving licence, vehicle-registration document, insurance evidence, visa or customs documents.

No. Border or immigration control concerns people and travel documents. Customs control principally concerns goods, cargo, money and applicable duties or restrictions.

Yes. Both may operate at the same border facility even though they perform different legal functions.

No. Countries participating in an open-border area may normally cross internal borders without routine checks, although temporary controls may still be introduced.

No. Countries within a customs union may allow goods to move across their internal borders without ordinary customs duties or routine customs formalities.

No. Police, customs and other authorities may still conduct lawful checks, enforce national rules and temporarily control the border where permitted.

Only where local law permits it. External or controlled borders may have to be crossed through an authorised border-crossing point during its operating hours.

Yes. Closures or restrictions may result from security measures, emergencies, severe weather, roadworks or administrative decisions.

Yes. A crossing may restrict heavy vehicles, dangerous goods, agricultural traffic, pedestrians or cyclists because of road design or border-control facilities.

Yes. Commercial goods, restricted products, goods exceeding personal allowances and certain amounts of cash may require declaration.

They may. The destination country may use toll roads, vignettes, distance-based charges, low-emission zones or other payment systems.

No. Navigation information may not include current border controls, vehicle restrictions or document requirements. Follow official signs and instructions.

Check the destination and transit countries’ traffic rules, required documents, insurance, vehicle equipment, tolls and border or customs requirements.

Yes. Follow lawful instructions from authorised border, police and customs officers, even when they temporarily differ from the normal traffic arrangement.

A pedestrian underpass is a passage that allows pedestrians to cross beneath a road, railway or other obstacle without entering the traffic route above.

They separate pedestrians from motor vehicles, trains or other traffic, reducing direct conflicts at busy or high-speed crossings.

Not exactly. A pedestrian underpass is specifically intended to allow pedestrians to pass beneath an obstacle, while a tunnel can carry roads, railways, pedestrians or other forms of transport.

No. An underpass passes beneath the obstacle, while an overpass or footbridge carries pedestrians above it. Both provide grade-separated crossings.

This depends on the signs and design of the facility. Some underpasses are shared with cyclists, while pedestrian-only underpasses may require cyclists to dismount.

Yes. Some underpasses contain separate or shared pedestrian and cycle facilities so both categories can cross safely away from motor traffic.

No when the passage is specifically reserved for pedestrians. Maintenance or emergency access may be permitted in exceptional circumstances.

Yes, when suitably designed. Ramps or lifts can provide step-free access, although accessibility depends on the individual facility.

Yes. Users must follow any signs indicating permitted users, direction of travel, separated sections or temporary closures.

Yes. Maintenance, flooding, construction, safety concerns or other circumstances may require temporary closure or diversion.

The underpass physically separates the movements, so pedestrians do not directly cross the traffic route above. Priority rules still apply wherever the pedestrian route later crosses another roadway or cycle facility.

Where cycling is not permitted, cyclists should dismount and continue on foot if pedestrian access with a bicycle is allowed.

Cycling routes are commonly indicated by direction signs, bicycle symbols, route numbers, colours or destination markers. The design of the signs and route-numbering system varies between countries and regions.

Usually not. A cycling-route sign normally provides direction or route guidance rather than imposing a mandatory direction. However, separate mandatory traffic signs may require cyclists to use a particular cycle path or direction.

No. A cycle path is a specific part of a road or separate path intended for cyclists under local traffic rules. A cycling route is an entire itinerary and may include cycle paths, ordinary roads, cycle streets and other types of infrastructure.

Not necessarily. Many cycling routes use roads and paths that are also open to motor vehicles, pedestrians or other road users. Access is determined by the signs and rules applying to each individual section.

Not automatically. Being on a designated cycling route does not normally change the priority rules. Cyclists must continue to obey traffic lights, give-way and stop signs, crossing rules and other applicable traffic regulations.

No. A route may combine dedicated cycle infrastructure with quiet streets, shared roads, rural roads and other suitable connections. The quality and level of separation from motor traffic can therefore change along the route.

Yes. A cycling route may cross or temporarily follow busy roads. At such locations, cyclists must follow the crossing, priority and traffic-light rules indicated by local signs and markings.

Yes, unless access is restricted by separate traffic signs or regulations. A cycling-route designation by itself does not normally prohibit cars, motorcycles or other vehicles from using an otherwise public road.

Yes. Cycling routes may be designed for daily travel, tourism or recreation. Some form part of regional, national or international networks and may be identified by route names or numbers.

Always follow the official traffic signs, signals and road markings. A route marker provides navigation and does not override a prohibition, mandatory direction, road closure or other traffic regulation.

Parking generally means leaving a vehicle stationary for longer than a brief stop required for passengers, loading or unloading. A vehicle stopped because of traffic lights, congestion, an emergency or another traffic condition is normally not considered parked. The precise legal definitions vary between countries.

Look for parking signs, prohibition signs, road markings and parking-zone signs. Local rules may also permit parking along certain roads even when individual parking spaces are not marked.

No. General traffic rules can prohibit parking even when no specific prohibition sign is present. Common examples include locations where a parked vehicle would obstruct visibility, crossings, intersections, cycle facilities or the movement of other traffic.

Parking on a pavement or sidewalk is prohibited or restricted in many countries unless signs or markings specifically allow it. Vehicles must not force pedestrians into the roadway or block an accessible pedestrian route.

Parking on or close to a pedestrian crossing is generally restricted because a vehicle can hide pedestrians from approaching drivers. The required clearance distance varies between countries.

Many countries prohibit parking within a specified distance of an intersection because parked vehicles can reduce visibility and obstruct turning traffic. Follow the local distance requirements and any signs or markings.

A parking sign identifies a place or area where parking is permitted or regulated. Additional signs or panels may specify time limits, payment requirements, vehicle categories, permits or particular parking arrangements.

Where parking is subject to payment, drivers must follow the instructions displayed locally. Payment may be made through a parking meter, ticket machine, mobile application or another authorised system. The permitted duration and charging periods vary by location.

Spaces marked for people with disabilities are reserved for vehicles displaying or registered with the required disability parking permit. Eligibility, permit display requirements and parking privileges depend on national and local law.

Not necessarily. Local rules may impose a maximum parking duration, even where parking is otherwise permitted. Different limits may apply to abandoned, commercial, heavy or recreational vehicles.

A no-parking sign prohibits leaving a vehicle parked in the area or along the section of road to which the restriction applies. The exact legal definition of parking and the extent of the prohibition vary between countries.

No. A no-parking restriction commonly still permits certain brief stops, such as picking up or dropping off passengers or loading or unloading goods. A no-stopping restriction is stricter and generally prohibits voluntary stopping as well as parking.

Remaining inside the vehicle does not necessarily mean that it is not parked. If the vehicle remains stationary beyond what local law permits as a brief stop, it may legally be considered parked even when the driver stays inside.

Often yes, if stopping is permitted and the vehicle remains there only as long as reasonably necessary for passengers to get in or out. Local rules may impose stricter restrictions at particular locations.

In many countries, genuine loading or unloading is treated as stopping rather than parking and may therefore be permitted. The vehicle should remain there only for the time reasonably necessary for the activity.

This depends on the country's signing rules. The restriction may continue to the next intersection, an end sign, a stated distance or the end of a designated zone. Supplementary arrows or distance panels may indicate its exact extent.

Usually a roadside no-parking sign applies only to the side of the road on which it is placed, unless it forms part of a zonal restriction or local signs indicate otherwise.

Yes. A supplementary panel may restrict the prohibition to particular hours, days or periods. Outside those periods, parking may be permitted if no other rule prohibits it.

Yes. Additional signs or symbols may make a parking restriction applicable to particular vehicle categories, such as heavy vehicles, motorcycles or other specified vehicles.

Only if parking is otherwise legal. The end of a specific no-parking restriction does not override general parking prohibitions near crossings, intersections, driveways, traffic signs or other protected locations.

Disabled parking spaces are intended for eligible people who hold a valid disabled parking permit or card. The exact eligibility requirements and permit system depend on the country.

Generally no. Disabled parking permits are normally personal and may only be used when the permit holder is driving or travelling in the vehicle.

No. A permit may provide access to reserved spaces or exemptions from certain parking restrictions, but rules concerning parking charges and time limits vary between countries and local authorities.

Check behind and around the vehicle for pedestrians, cyclists, other vehicles and obstacles. Use mirrors and cameras where available, but also look directly because monitoring systems can have blind spots.

In many countries, reversing is treated as a manoeuvre and the reversing driver must give way to other road users. The exact legal requirements depend on national traffic rules.

No. Reversing should normally be limited to the distance necessary to complete the manoeuvre safely. Driving forward generally provides better visibility and vehicle control.

A city limit marks the boundary of a city, town, village, locality or municipality. On roads, it is often indicated by a place-name or boundary sign.

No. A city-limit or locality sign may simply identify a place or administrative boundary. A legally defined built-up area can use a different sign or definition.

No. In some countries a locality or boundary sign has consequences for traffic rules, while in others it mainly identifies the place. Drivers must follow the traffic signs and rules that apply in that country.

Not always. Some signs indicate an administrative municipal boundary, while others identify a city, town, village or locality without exactly following the municipality's legal boundary.

A city limit identifies the boundary of a named place or administrative area. A built-up area is a traffic-law concept that may affect rules such as default speed limits. The two boundaries can coincide, but they do not have to.

A licence plate is a plate displaying the registration identifier assigned to a vehicle. It allows authorities and other authorised systems to identify the vehicle's registration.

Yes. Licence plate, registration plate and number plate are different terms commonly used for the plate displaying a vehicle's official registration number.

Most motor vehicles used on public roads must display one or more registration plates, but requirements differ for motorcycles, trailers, agricultural vehicles and other special vehicle categories.

This depends on the country and vehicle type. Cars commonly require front and rear plates, while motorcycles and certain other vehicles may require only a rear plate.

Yes. A required registration plate must normally remain clearly visible and readable. It should not be hidden by luggage, dirt, accessories or other objects.

Generally no. Changing the characters, colours, dimensions or appearance of an official plate may make it invalid or illegal. Plates and authorised reproductions must comply with local specifications.

Follow the local reporting and replacement procedure. Many countries require the loss or theft to be reported to the police or vehicle-registration authority before a replacement plate can be issued.

A plate must remain legible and compliant with local requirements. If damage prevents it from being read or makes it invalid, it should be replaced according to the local registration procedure.

Some countries allow motorists to request a personalised registration combination. The available characters, formats and prohibited combinations are determined by the registration authority.

This varies between countries. In some systems the plate remains with the vehicle, while in others it remains associated with the registered holder and may be retained or returned when the vehicle is sold.

A charging station is a location where electric vehicles can be connected to an electricity supply to recharge their batteries. A station may contain one or several individual charging points.

Charging stations are intended for vehicles that can be externally charged, such as battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The exact vehicle categories permitted may be indicated by local signs or operator conditions.

Not necessarily. A space beside a charger may be reserved for electric vehicles or vehicles that are charging. Drivers must check the signs and markings before parking there.

Not where the parking space is officially reserved for electric vehicles. An ordinary parking space located near a charger may be different, so the applicable signs and markings determine who may park there.

This depends on the local traffic and parking rules. Many charging spaces require the vehicle to be connected to the charger, even if the vehicle itself is electric.

Charging may be free or subject to payment. The price and payment method are determined by the charging operator, while separate parking charges may also apply.

Yes. Traffic signs, parking regulations or charging conditions may establish a maximum duration to encourage drivers to move their vehicles and make the charger available to others.

Follow the local parking rules and charging conditions. Some locations require vehicles to leave after charging or impose additional fees or time limits when the charging session has ended.

No. A charging station does not allow a driver to ignore no-parking rules, reserved spaces, time limits or other traffic regulations. The vehicle must still be legally parked.

No. Charging stations can provide different charging powers. Some are intended for longer parking periods, while high-power chargers can recharge compatible vehicles much more quickly.

A general danger warning sign indicates that there is a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign in the local traffic-sign system.

It can be used for unusual or uncommon hazards for which no dedicated warning symbol exists. The nature of the danger may be explained by an additional panel, symbol or message.

Look for a supplementary panel, text or symbol accompanying the warning sign. It may describe the hazard or provide information needed to understand the warning.

Increase your attention, observe the road and surroundings carefully and adapt your speed where necessary so that you can respond safely to the hazard.

Not normally. A warning sign alerts road users to danger rather than establishing a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be provided where a specific maximum speed is required.

It is used when the traffic-sign system does not contain a specific symbol that accurately represents the particular hazard.

Yes. A general warning sign may be used for either a temporary or continuing hazard, depending on local signing rules and the circumstances.

Yes. Depending on the country's traffic-sign system, an additional panel may indicate the distance to the hazard, the length of the dangerous section or other useful information.

No. A danger warning sign does not by itself change the priority rules. Drivers must continue to follow traffic lights, priority signs and the normal right-of-way rules.

Not necessarily. The sign normally warns of a hazard ahead of the sign, and the dangerous situation may extend over a section of road. Supplementary information may indicate its location or length.

A pedestrian is primarily a person travelling on foot. Local traffic laws may also treat people pushing bicycles, wheelchairs, prams or certain other devices as pedestrians.

Pedestrians should normally use pavements, sidewalks, footpaths or other areas provided for pedestrians. Where these are unavailable, local rules determine where pedestrians may walk on or beside the road.

This depends on the country's traffic rules. Many countries require or recommend pedestrians to face approaching traffic, but the exact rule varies.

Use a pedestrian crossing, traffic-light-controlled crossing or other designated crossing where required or reasonably available. Where crossing elsewhere is permitted, choose a location with good visibility and cross carefully.

The exact priority rule varies between countries. Drivers are commonly required to give way to pedestrians using or entering designated crossings, but pedestrians must still obey traffic lights and avoid entering the road dangerously.

Yes. Where pedestrian signals are provided, pedestrians must follow their indications and should not enter the roadway while the signal prohibits crossing.

In many traffic systems, a person who dismounts and walks beside a bicycle is treated as a pedestrian. The precise legal classification depends on local law.

This depends on the road layout and local rules. Pedestrians may sometimes use a cycle path when no suitable pedestrian facility is available, but they must not unnecessarily obstruct cyclists or other authorised users.

Yes. Drivers turning into another road must watch carefully for pedestrians crossing the road they are entering and give way where required by local traffic law.

Check carefully for approaching traffic from all relevant directions, make sure there is sufficient time and distance to cross safely, and continue to observe traffic while crossing.

A cyclist is a person who rides and controls a bicycle.

Yes. Cyclists are road users and must follow the traffic rules, signs and signals that apply to them.

This depends on local rules. Cyclists may be required to use a cycle path or designated cycling facility, while in other situations they may ride on the carriageway.

A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport a relatively large number of passengers. It may be used for public transport, school transport, private services or other passenger transport.

A bus is commonly designed for frequent passenger boarding and may allow standing passengers, while a coach is generally designed for longer journeys with passengers seated. Exact legal definitions vary between countries.

Yes. Driving a vehicle designed to carry more than a specified number of passengers normally requires a dedicated bus or passenger-vehicle driving licence.

Only when the vehicle is designed and approved to carry standing passengers. Coaches and other vehicles designed exclusively for seated passengers must not be used beyond their approved passenger configuration.

Where seat belts are provided and local law requires their use, passengers must wear them correctly. Urban buses designed for standing passengers may have seating positions or operating conditions that differ from coaches.

Yes, where permitted. Bus lanes are commonly reserved for public transport buses, although local signs may also allow taxis, bicycles or other specified vehicles to use them.

No. Some countries require other drivers to give way to buses leaving designated stops, particularly in urban areas, while others apply the normal merging rules.

Yes. Passengers may be boarding, leaving or crossing the road near the bus. Reduce speed where necessary and watch carefully for pedestrians emerging from behind or in front of the vehicle.

They can. Some countries impose lower maximum speeds on buses than on passenger cars, particularly on high-speed roads. Different limits may apply to buses and coaches.

Yes, normally. Buses that satisfy the applicable construction and access requirements may use motorways, but they must obey any vehicle-specific speed limits, lane restrictions and other local rules.

Police help enforce traffic laws, manage traffic, investigate collisions and respond to dangerous situations. They may also carry out roadside checks and direct road users.

Yes. Lawful directions given by an authorised police officer must be followed. In many countries, those directions take precedence over traffic lights, road signs and normal priority rules.

Slow down, follow the officer's directions and stop at a safe location as instructed. Do not make sudden movements or continue driving unless directed to do so.

Yes, where authorised by local law. A police officer controlling traffic may instruct road users to proceed even when a traffic light or sign would normally require them to stop.

Yes. Police may require drivers to provide documents such as a driving licence, vehicle registration, identification or proof of insurance according to local law.

Yes. Traffic police may conduct legally authorised alcohol and drug checks using procedures such as breath, saliva or other approved tests.

Yes. Roads or lanes may be temporarily closed or traffic diverted because of collisions, emergencies, investigations, public events or other safety concerns.

Reduce speed, remain alert and follow all directions. Do not enter a closed area or interfere with emergency personnel, and leave sufficient space for emergency vehicles.

Follow the local rules for priority vehicles. Drivers generally have to make sufficient space, give way and stop where necessary so that the emergency vehicle can pass safely.

Yes, where local law permits it. Police or another authorised authority may require a vehicle to be moved when it obstructs traffic, creates danger or must be removed for operational reasons.