The 'No Overtaking' sign (code 632) is a vital regulatory sign that explicitly prohibits you from overtaking other vehicles. This is a binding instruction that must be followed from the point the sign is displayed or indicated by road markings. Always obey this sign, as local habits or other drivers' behaviour do not override its legal meaning. If exceptions apply, they will be clearly stated on supplementary plates.
Master the 'No Overtaking' sign (code 632) to ensure safe driving and pass your theory test. This explanation covers its precise meaning and implications for your manoeuvres and adherence to traffic rules.
This regulatory sign is part of the legal control of the road. It may require a driver to stop, give way, keep to a direction, avoid a movement, stay out of a restricted area, or respect a vehicle-specific rule. In practice, the sign should be read with the stop line, lane markings, road layout, and any supplementary plates so the instruction is obeyed before the controlled point. It is listed in the catalogue as code 632.
"No overtaking" gives a binding instruction, restriction, or prohibition. The driver must understand who it applies to, where it starts, and whether any exception is shown before continuing.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 632 - No overtaking 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 British driving theory exam in Great Britain.
The 'No Overtaking' sign (632) means you are legally prohibited from passing any other vehicle. This restriction applies from the sign itself or from a point indicated by road markings, unless a specific exemption is shown on a supplementary plate.
The restriction starts exactly where the sign is placed, or from a relevant stop line or road marking that indicates the beginning of the controlled area. You must ensure you comply before entering the restricted zone.
Yes, there can be exceptions. These will be clearly indicated on supplementary plates beneath the main sign. These might specify certain vehicle types, times of day, or directions for which overtaking is still permitted. Always check these carefully.
Common mistakes include assuming the restriction doesn't apply if other drivers are overtaking, or not checking supplementary plates for exceptions. Learners might also try to overtake just before the sign, which is still illegal if the controlled area has already begun.
Generally, the 'No Overtaking' sign applies to overtaking other vehicles. However, specific rules about overtaking vulnerable road users like cyclists can vary, and it's always safest to maintain a safe distance and check for any supplementary instructions. The primary meaning is to prohibit overtaking motor vehicles.
If the 'No Overtaking' sign prohibits a manoeuvre you need to make, you must find an alternative legal route or wait until the restriction ends. You cannot simply ignore the sign or assume it's okay to proceed. Always prioritize safety and legal compliance.
A clear reference image of the 632 - No overtaking road sign used in Great Britain.

The 632 - No overtaking road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The 632 - No overtaking road sign is part of the Great Britain Regulatory Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Studying similar road signs side-by-side aids memory and reduces confusion, crucial for theory test revision. Master traffic sign comparison and sign recognition to confidently navigate the Great Britain driving licence process.

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This regulatory sign is part of the legal control of the road. It may require a driver to stop, give way, keep to a direction, avoid a movement, stay out of a restricted area, or respect a vehicle-specific rule. In practice, the sign should be read with the stop line, lane markings, road layout, and any supplementary plates so the instruction is obeyed before the controlled point. It is listed in the catalogue as code 615.
This regulatory sign is part of the legal control of the road. It may require a driver to stop, give way, keep to a direction, avoid a movement, stay out of a restricted area, or respect a vehicle-specific rule. In practice, the sign should be read with the stop line, lane markings, road layout, and any supplementary plates so the instruction is obeyed before the controlled point. It is listed in the catalogue as code 651.
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Browse All GB Road Signs List