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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Heads up! This sign means your vehicle is too tall for the road ahead.

C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… Dutch road sign meaning

The C19 'Closed to Vehicles Higher Than...' traffic sign is a clear prohibition sign warning you that the road ahead has a height restriction. You'll typically see it before low bridges, tunnels, or underpasses to prevent vehicles exceeding a certain height from attempting to pass. Always pay attention to the indicated height, which includes any load. If your vehicle is higher than the limit, you must find an alternative route before reaching the restriction point to avoid damage or accidents.

About the C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign

Learn the key details of the C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in the Netherlands. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Dutch driving theory exam.

Definition of C19

C19 is a circular red prohibition sign that indicates the maximum allowed height for vehicles, including any containers, equipment, or loads on the roof. It is placed in advance of low bridges, tunnels, parking garages, or underpasses to avoid collisions with overhead structures. The value shown is an absolute limit and drivers must select another route if their vehicle or load exceeds it.

Meaning of C19

This sign prohibits entry for vehicles or loads whose total height exceeds the value shown on the sign. It warns of low tunnels, underpasses, gantries, or bridges where tall vehicles could strike the structure or become stuck. Drivers must know the actual height of their vehicle and load and choose an alternative route if they are too high.

Allowed actions for C19

Approach the restriction only if the total vehicle and load height is within the stated valueContinue under the structure when the measured height safely complies with the limitReduce speed and stay alert for additional height markers or hanging equipmentUse an alternative route indicated for high vehicles when availableCheck and adjust movable equipment or platforms in a legal way before the restriction

Prohibited actions for C19

Entering under the structure when the vehicle or load height exceeds the posted valueAttempting to lower suspension or pressure temporarily in an unsafe way to passDriving in another lane or on the hard shoulder to try to gain extra clearanceIgnoring height warning devices, chains, or advance signs before the restrictionFollowing navigation instructions that lead an over height vehicle into the low clearance

C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the Dutch driving theory exam in the Netherlands.

What does the C19 'Closed to Vehicles Higher Than...' sign mean?

The C19 sign indicates a maximum height limit for vehicles. If your vehicle, including its load, is taller than the measurement shown on the sign, you are prohibited from entering that section of the road. This is crucial for preventing collisions with overhead structures.

What should I do if my vehicle is higher than the limit shown on the C19 sign?

If your vehicle exceeds the height indicated on the C19 sign, you must not proceed. Look for advance warning signs and take the designated alternative route for high-sided vehicles. Do not attempt to force your way through or assume you can 'duck' under if your load is adjustable, as this is extremely dangerous.

Does the height limit on the C19 sign include my load?

Yes, the height indicated on the C19 sign includes the total height of your vehicle and any load it is carrying. This means you need to know your vehicle's total height, including any roof racks, aerials, or cargo, before you approach this sign.

Are there any common exam traps related to the C19 sign?

A common trap is assuming the sign only applies to the vehicle itself, forgetting to account for the load. Another is not recognizing the need to plan an alternative route in advance, potentially leading to dangerous last-minute manoeuvres. Always check your vehicle's dimensions against the sign.

C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign image

A clear reference image of the C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign used in the Netherlands.

C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign

Other names for the C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than…

The C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Height limitLow clearance banOver-height restrictionTall vehicle prohibited

Closure & One-Way Signs (C) road sign category

The C19 - Closed to Vehicles Higher Than… road sign is part of the Closure & One-Way Signs (C) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Dive into Dutch road sign knowledge

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