Prohibition sign · R201-40
Maximum speed 40 sign (R201-40)
You may not exceed 40 km/h.
What does the maximum speed 40 sign mean?
You may not exceed 40 km/h.
What should you do?
Stay at or below 40 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
| Sign code | R201-40 |
|---|---|
| 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 40 sign
A white disc with a red border and the number 40.
Where you will see it
Any public road, from the sign onwards, where a low limit protects pedestrians or other road users.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Do not exceed 40 km/h.
- Reduce further for traffic, weather or visibility.
The common mistake
The number is the ceiling, not a target. Use the extra seconds to look for hazards.
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 40 sign (R201-40) 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: stay at or below 40 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
- 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 40 sign with these:
Maximum speed 100 (R201-100)A white disc with a red border and the number 100.
Maximum speed 120 (R201-120)A white disc with a red border and the number 120.
Maximum speed 30 (R201-30)A white disc with a red border and the number 30.Test yourself: Maximum speed 40 sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- You may not exceed 40 km/h.
- Only authorised vehicles may enter.
- The three junction approaches have stop controls.
Show the answer
Answer A: You may not exceed 40 km/h.
Stay at or below 40 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
Memory tip: R201-40 · Maximum speed 40
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Stay at or below 40 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
- Stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
- Do not enter unless your vehicle has the required authorisation.
Show the answer
Answer A: Stay at or below 40 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
Maximum speed 40: You may not exceed 40 km/h.
Memory tip: Stay at or below 40 km/h and drive more slowly if conditions require it.
All vehicle codes
Maximum speed 40 sign: quick questions
What does the maximum speed 40 sign (R201-40) mean?
You may not exceed 40 km/h.
What should you do at the maximum speed 40 sign?
Do not exceed 40 km/h. Reduce further for traffic, weather or visibility.
Where will you see the maximum speed 40 sign?
Any public road, from the sign onwards, where a low limit protects pedestrians or other road users.
What is the common mistake with the maximum speed 40 sign?
The number is the ceiling, not a target. Use the extra seconds to look for hazards.
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.