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).

Protruding load, example 1. — **Allowed:** The load protrudes by a maximum of 20 cm to the sides and does not exceed the width of 260 cm.

Protruding load, example 2. — **Not allowed:** The width of 260 cm is not exceeded, but what makes this prohibited is that the load protrudes 40 cm to one side.

Protruding load, example 3. — **Not allowed:** No load is sticking out, but the vehicle is wider than 260 cm. This means that it may not be driven on normal roads.

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.

Protruding load length-wise. — 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.

Marking trailers

Front

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

Sides

Orange lights.
Orange reflectors.

Rear

Last reviewed 2026-04-24.

Weights, load & trailer