Truck traffic prohibited – fines for driving under sign “253” in Germany.

What fines await a truck driver for passing under sign “253” – Truck traffic prohibited? What signs are placed under this sign, and what do they mean?

Sign “253” is probably the most important prohibitory sign for truck drivers. Very often, loading and unloading locations are in small towns, where this sign can be seen at the entrance. Often, the sign is accompanied by a plate that specifies certain restrictions. Below, we will take a closer look at this issue…

In Germany, you should pay close attention to the “Truck traffic prohibited” sign. This sign may mean that you simply cannot physically pass through this area with a truck. There may be a height or weight limit ahead, or the road might be so narrow that you won’t be able to reverse or turn around. There might also be a roundabout with such a small radius that a semi-truck cannot navigate through it.

Therefore, plan your route in advance, check not only truck navigation systems but also Google Maps to see temporary changes that the GPS might not detect.

For example:

• Road construction is in progress, and you need to enter the town from another side;
• The road has been dug up for some reason;
• An accident has occurred, and a detour is required.

Additional Plates for the “Truck Traffic Prohibited” Sign

Under the “Truck Traffic Prohibited” sign, additional plates may be placed that indicate conditions allowing certain types of vehicles or permitting passage at specific times.

Plate Indicating Time Restrictions

A plate with a specific time range means that truck traffic is prohibited from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, as shown in the image below.

Plate with the inscription “Lieferverkehr frei”

The plate “Lieferverkehr frei” indicates that truck passage is allowed for vehicles delivering goods or loading/unloading within the restricted area.

However, the driver must prove this by presenting documents confirming the delivery or pickup in the restricted area, such as a CMR document.

If such documents are not available, the fine can range from 100 to 150 euros.

Plate with the inscription “Anlieger frei”

If a plate under sign “253” says “Anlieger frei,” it means that truck traffic is allowed only for residents of that street or district, as well as for those on a business trip, with a service appointment, or with a workplace in that area.

The driver, as in the previous case, must have proof of their reason for entering this area. Otherwise, the passage will be considered a violation.

The fine ranges from 100 to 150 euros.

Plate with the inscription “Mit Ausnahmegenehmigung frei”

The plate “Mit Ausnahmegenehmigung frei” means that entry is allowed only for vehicles with a special permit (e.g., construction machinery, municipal service trucks, etc.).

The driver must have a document issued by local authorities permitting passage in this area.

Other Plates

• Plate with the inscription “Landwirtschaftlicher Verkehr frei” – Except for agricultural vehicles.
• Plate with the inscription “Linienbusse frei” – Except for buses. Truck traffic is prohibited, but city and intercity buses are allowed to pass.

Fines for Driving Under the “Lkw-Verbot” Sign – Truck Traffic Prohibited

In Germany, fines for violating the “Lkw-Verbot” sign depend on the situation:

• Driving a semi-truck with a trailer under the “No Entry” sign, if it does not cause an accident, property damage, or other negative consequences, results in a fine of 100 euros.
• If the violation creates a dangerous situation, the fine can be up to 500 euros.

❗ Important: If a driver accidentally enters a restricted area, they are advised to turn around at the nearest intersection. Otherwise, the violation may be recorded by cameras.

Driver’s Work and Rest Regulations – “Tacho”