Prohibition sign · R202
Gross mass restriction sign (R202)
Vehicles exceeding the displayed gross mass may not proceed.
What does the gross mass restriction sign mean?
Vehicles exceeding the displayed gross mass may not proceed.
What should you do?
Check the permitted mass shown and the applicable mass of your vehicle.
| Sign code | R202 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Prohibition signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the gross mass restriction sign
A red-bordered disc showing a mass figure in tonnes.
Where you will see it
On any public road, to keep overweight vehicles off roads or bridges they could damage.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- If your vehicle’s GVM or GCM exceeds the figure, use another road.
- Vehicles below the limit may use the road.
The common mistake
The command sign R102 pushes heavy vehicles onto a route; R202 keeps them off one.
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 gross mass restriction sign (R202) 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: check the permitted mass shown and the applicable mass of your vehicle.
- 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 gross mass restriction sign with these:
Axle mass restriction (R203)A red-bordered disc showing a figure for the mass on a single axle.
Height restriction (R204)A red-bordered disc showing a height in metres with arrows above and below it.
Length restriction (R205)A red-bordered disc showing a length in metres between arrows.Test yourself: Gross mass restriction sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- The indicated route is for vehicles exceeding the displayed GVM or GCM.
- Vehicles exceeding the displayed gross mass may not proceed.
- Turning right at this point is prohibited.
Show the answer
Answer B: Vehicles exceeding the displayed gross mass may not proceed.
Check the permitted mass shown and the applicable mass of your vehicle.
Memory tip: R202 · Gross mass restriction
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Continue in a permitted direction rather than turning right.
- Check the permitted mass shown and the applicable mass of your vehicle.
- Compare the vehicle or combination’s specified gross mass with the shown figure; use the designated route only if the command applies.
Show the answer
Answer B: Check the permitted mass shown and the applicable mass of your vehicle.
Gross mass restriction: Vehicles exceeding the displayed gross mass may not proceed.
Memory tip: Check the permitted mass shown and the applicable mass of your vehicle.
All vehicle codes
Gross mass restriction sign: quick questions
What does the gross mass restriction sign (R202) mean?
Vehicles exceeding the displayed gross mass may not proceed.
What should you do at the gross mass restriction sign?
If your vehicle’s GVM or GCM exceeds the figure, use another road. Vehicles below the limit may use the road.
Where will you see the gross mass restriction sign?
On any public road, to keep overweight vehicles off roads or bridges they could damage.
What is the common mistake with the gross mass restriction sign?
The command sign R102 pushes heavy vehicles onto a route; R202 keeps them off one.
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.