Prohibition sign · R215
No heavy-vehicle overtaking sign (R215)
Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
What does the no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign mean?
Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
What should you do?
If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
| Sign code | R215 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Prohibition signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign
A white disc with a red border showing a heavy vehicle overtaking another, one crossed in red.
Where you will see it
On any public road where heavy vehicles must not pass each other.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- If you are driving a heavy vehicle, stay behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
- Other vehicles are not covered by this sign.
The common mistake
Cars may still overtake unless another sign or marking forbids it.
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 no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign (R215) 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: if the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
- 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 no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign with these:
No overtaking (R214)A white disc with a red border showing two cars side by side, one red.
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.Test yourself: No heavy-vehicle overtaking sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
- Horses may be on or near the road ahead.
- The road changes direction ahead.
Show the answer
Answer A: Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
Memory tip: R215 · No heavy-vehicle overtaking
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
- Reduce speed before the bend, following the direction shown.
- Approach slowly and avoid startling horses or riders.
Show the answer
Answer A: If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
No heavy-vehicle overtaking: Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
Memory tip: If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
All vehicle codes
No heavy-vehicle overtaking sign: quick questions
What does the no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign (R215) mean?
Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
What should you do at the no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign?
If you are driving a heavy vehicle, stay behind the heavy vehicle ahead. Other vehicles are not covered by this sign.
Where will you see the no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign?
On any public road where heavy vehicles must not pass each other.
What is the common mistake with the no heavy-vehicle overtaking sign?
Cars may still overtake unless another sign or marking forbids it.
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.