The H47 sign marks the end of a 'zona residencial' or 'zona de coexistência' – special areas in Portugal with unique traffic rules. Upon seeing this sign, you know that those specific regulations, often concerning lower speeds and shared space, no longer apply. While you can generally resume normal driving, always be mindful of your surroundings and continue to adhere to general traffic laws, speed limits, and priority rules. This sign is crucial for understanding how road designations change and how to adjust your driving behaviour accordingly, a key aspect for your theory exam.
This sign signifies the end of a residential or coexistence zone, indicating a change in traffic rules and speed limits. Understanding this sign is crucial for accurate theory test revision and safe driving in Portugal.
H47 - Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência (Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência) belongs to the Portuguese information signs category in the Regulamento de Sinalização do Trânsito. It uses the official information-sign format for its function, often a rectangular or square panel with a symbol, word, route, or facility indication. The official wording is: Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência: indicação de que terminou a zona de coexistência. It gives official information about the road environment, services, restrictions, facilities, or conditions that should influence safe planning. For theory preparation, connect the sign to a concrete driving decision: where to look, when to slow, whether to stop or yield, which route or lane to choose, and whether any panel changes the scope of the rule. On the road, interpret it together with markings, traffic lights, police directions, temporary works signs, and any additional panel placed with it. A strong exam answer explains both recognition and behaviour: not only what the sign is called, but what a safe and lawful driver must do next.
H47 - Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência (Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência) means that the driver must understand and apply this official Portuguese instruction: Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência: indicação de que terminou a zona de coexistência. In practical terms, you should use the information to plan speed, lane position, route choice, stopping, parking, or observation without treating it as permission to ignore other traffic rules.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the H47 - H47 - Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência (Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência) 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 Portuguese driving theory exam in Portugal.
This Portuguese traffic sign indicates that you are exiting a special zone (either a residential area or a coexistence zone) where specific traffic rules, like reduced speed limits or shared pedestrian/vehicle space, were in effect. Seeing the H47 means these special rules are no longer applicable as you re-enter the general road network.
While the H47 signifies the end of a special zone with potentially lower speed limits, you should not simply speed up. You must always adhere to the posted speed limits for the area you are entering, observe general traffic rules, and be aware of other road users. Adjust your speed safely and predictably, rather than treating the sign as a signal to accelerate without caution.
The primary prohibition is treating the H47 sign as permission to ignore general traffic rules or drive carelessly. You must not ignore information that affects your route, lane position, or observation. Sudden manoeuvres immediately after passing the sign late are also unsafe and prohibited. Always plan your driving based on the information provided.
Both zones are designated areas with specific rules to improve safety and living conditions. A 'zona residencial' often prioritises residents and may have stricter speed limits. A 'zona de coexistência' emphasises shared use of space between pedestrians and vehicles, with pedestrians having priority and vehicles moving at walking pace. The H47 sign marks the end of whichever of these zones you were in.
The H47 sign prompts you to transition from the specific rules of a residential or coexistence zone back to the general rules of the road. This means you might need to adjust your speed, be more aware of general traffic flow, and re-apply standard priority rules. It’s about safely re-integrating into normal traffic conditions.
A clear reference image of the H47 - H47 - Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência (Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência) road sign used in Portugal.

The H47 - H47 - Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência (Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The H47 - H47 - Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência (Fim de zona residencial ou de coexistência) road sign is part of the Information Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Understanding the distinctions between similar road signs is key for accurate recognition and fewer errors on your Portuguese theory test. Comparing signs helps you master traffic sign recognition and consolidate your driving knowledge.

H10 Posto de socorros: Information Sign for a First Aid Post

The H11 Oficina sign means a minor repair workshop is ahead.

H12 Telephone Sign: Indicating Public Telephone Availability

The H13a 'Posto de Abastecimento de Combustível' Sign Indicates a Nearby Fuel Station.

Know the H13b sign: Fuel Station with GPL Ahead in Portugal

Understand the H13c 'Descrição a confirmar no quadro gráfico oficial do RST' Information Sign

Know where to find fuel and electric vehicle charging with the H13d information sign.

H14a 'Parque de campismo' Sign: Indicates a Campsite Ahead
After reviewing the full list, explore signs by specific categories such as warning, regulatory, or informational to deepen your understanding. Practise recognizing signs in context and prepare effectively for your Portuguese driving licence theory test.
All Portuguese Road Signs List