Length and width – driving licence theory

Laterally (to the sides)

• A load may protrude by a maximum of 20 cm to the sides.
• The total width may be a maximum of 260 cm (2.6 m).

Length

The length of private cars and light lorries may be up to a maximum of 24 metres, load included. However, it is rarely suitable from a safety perspective to transport such a long load. Some municipalities have local regulations that prohibit very long loads.

• Forward protrusion: Must be marked.
  • Exception: If the part protruding forward is shorter than 1 metre and it is clearly visible to other road users, it does not need to be marked.
• Rear protrusion: Must be marked if the load protrudes by more than 1 metre.

Marking in daylight

• Flags or similar in clear colours to both the front and rear.

Marking in the dark (or if required by weather conditions)

• Front: Lamp with white light and white reflectors.
• Rear: Lamp with red light and red reflectors.

The maximum length of 24 metres is not exceeded, and, as the load protrudes by 3 and 4 metres, respectively, it has been correctly marked. This is allowed under the rules, but you should consider ordering home delivery from a shipping company instead.

Marking when towing

When towing, the tow rope shall be marked if the distance between the vehicles is greater than 2 metres.

The tow rope is clearly marked as it is over 2 metres long.

Marking trailers

Front

• White reflectors.
• White position lights on trailers wider than 160 cm.

Sides

• Orange lights.
• Orange reflectors.

Rear

• Rear lights.
• Brake lights.
• Indicators.
• Rear registration plate light.
• Red triangular reflectors.

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