Prohibition sign · R201-120
Maximum speed 120 sign (R201-120)
You may not exceed 120 km/h.
What does the maximum speed 120 sign mean?
You may not exceed 120 km/h.
What should you do?
Adjust your speed to the road and weather conditions.
| Sign code | R201-120 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Prohibition signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the maximum speed 120 sign
A white disc with a red border and the number 120.
Where you will see it
Mainly freeways, matching the freeway’s general maximum.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Do not exceed 120 km/h, and drive slower when conditions require it.
The common mistake
It is not a target. Goods vehicles and buses still follow their own lower limits.
Why this sign matters
The freeway limit matches the highest speed allowed in good conditions. It cannot account for rain, fog or heavy traffic, so you must.
About prohibition signs
Prohibition signs show what you may not do, such as overtaking, parking or turning. They are red-ringed circles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the maximum speed 120 sign (R201-120) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: prohibition signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: adjust your speed to the road and weather conditions.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Prohibition signs and restricted movements.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the maximum speed 120 sign with these:
Maximum speed 100 (R201-100)A white disc with a red border and the number 100.
Maximum speed 30 (R201-30)A white disc with a red border and the number 30.
Maximum speed 40 (R201-40)A white disc with a red border and the number 40.Test yourself: Maximum speed 120 sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- This space is reserved for buses.
- You may not exceed 120 km/h.
- The road surface may have reduced grip.
Show the answer
Answer B: You may not exceed 120 km/h.
Adjust your speed to the road and weather conditions.
Memory tip: R201-120 · Maximum speed 120
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Adjust your speed to the road and weather conditions.
- Keep other vehicles out of the reserved space.
- Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
Show the answer
Answer A: Adjust your speed to the road and weather conditions.
Maximum speed 120: You may not exceed 120 km/h.
Memory tip: Adjust your speed to the road and weather conditions.
All vehicle codes
Maximum speed 120 sign: quick questions
What does the maximum speed 120 sign (R201-120) mean?
You may not exceed 120 km/h.
What should you do at the maximum speed 120 sign?
Do not exceed 120 km/h, and drive slower when conditions require it.
Where will you see the maximum speed 120 sign?
Mainly freeways, matching the freeway’s general maximum.
What is the common mistake with the maximum speed 120 sign?
It is not a target. Goods vehicles and buses still follow their own lower limits.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.