Prohibition sign · R201-80
Maximum speed 80 sign (R201-80)
You may not exceed 80 km/h.
What does the maximum speed 80 sign mean?
You may not exceed 80 km/h.
What should you do?
The posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
| Sign code | R201-80 |
|---|---|
| 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 80 sign
A white disc with a red border and the number 80.
Where you will see it
Any public road. Goods vehicles over 9,000 kg and some combinations have an 80 km/h limit even where a higher one is posted.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Keep to 80 km/h at most.
- Leave a bigger gap in the wet.
The common mistake
A limit is the maximum in good conditions, not permission to travel at that speed in rain, mist or heavy traffic.
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 80 sign (R201-80) 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: the posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
- 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 80 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 80 sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- A railway crossing is ahead.
- You may not exceed 80 km/h.
- Pedestrians may not use this road.
Show the answer
Answer B: You may not exceed 80 km/h.
The posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
Memory tip: R201-80 · Maximum speed 80
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Use a permitted pedestrian route.
- Look and listen for trains. Never enter unless your exit is clear.
- The posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
Show the answer
Answer C: The posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
Maximum speed 80: You may not exceed 80 km/h.
Memory tip: The posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
All vehicle codes
Maximum speed 80 sign: quick questions
What does the maximum speed 80 sign (R201-80) mean?
You may not exceed 80 km/h.
What should you do at the maximum speed 80 sign?
Keep to 80 km/h at most. Leave a bigger gap in the wet.
Where will you see the maximum speed 80 sign?
Any public road. Goods vehicles over 9,000 kg and some combinations have an 80 km/h limit even where a higher one is posted.
What is the common mistake with the maximum speed 80 sign?
A limit is the maximum in good conditions, not permission to travel at that speed in rain, mist or heavy traffic.
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.