Additional signsIreland

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Ireland. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


Additional signs

An additional sign is a traffic sign placed directly below another sign to provide extra information or clarify how the main sign should be understood. It can specify conditions such as distance, time periods, road users affected, directions, or special circumstances. Additional signs do not create new rules by themselves but modify, limit, or explain the meaning of the sign above them so drivers can apply the rule correctly in that specific situation.


Buses allowed. Traffic from both directions. To the left. To the right. ... metres to the left. ... metres to the right. ... metres ahead. For ... metres. Indicated height. Disc parking, maximum 2 hours. For the number of minutes shown. For the number of hours shown. During the time shown on the indicated days. Minimum overtaking distance from cyclists. Recommended speed. Reduce speed now. Drive slowly. Speed in km/h. Traffic calming. Pedestrian zone. Oncoming vehicles in the middle of the road. Another train coming if lights continue flashing. End.
Why must I read a supplementary plate?

It can qualify the main sign by identifying an exception, a time period or the distance to a restriction. Read the complete assembly rather than applying only the main symbol.

🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Regulatory signs

1. Buses allowed

This supplementary sign indicates that buses are allowed where the main traffic sign would otherwise restrict their access or use. The bus categories covered depend on the applicable local definitions.

Buses allowed.

English • P 050 • Except buses. Buses are excepted from the restriction conveyed by the associated sign. Other restrictions still apply. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 050
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Ireland - Department of Transport • Public domain • Source revision 2023-08-17. Wikimedia original unmodified.

2. Traffic from both directions

This supplementary sign indicates that traffic may approach from both directions on the road or traffic stream concerned by the main sign.

Traffic from both directions.

English • P 005 • Both ways. Traffic may approach from both directions at the cycle or pedestrian/cycle crossing identified by the associated warning. Watch in both directions. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 005

SVG source: EthanL13 • CC0 • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

3. To the left

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in the direction shown by the arrow, to the left.

To the left.

English • P 003L • Direction — left. The hazard or location identified by the associated sign is to the left. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 003L

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 003L.

4. To the right

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in the direction shown by the arrow, to the right.

To the right.

English • P 003R • Direction — right. The hazard or location identified by the associated sign is to the right. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 003R

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 003R.

5. metres to the left

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign refers to a location the indicated distance to the left.

... metres to the left.

English • P 004L • Direction and distance — left. The hazard or location identified by the associated sign is 250 m to the left. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 004L

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 004L.

6. metres to the right

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign refers to a location the indicated distance to the right.

... metres to the right.

English • P 004R • Direction and distance — right. The hazard or location identified by the associated sign is 250 m to the right. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 004R

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 004R.

7. metres ahead

This supplementary sign indicates the distance from the main traffic sign to the point where the indicated danger, regulation or information begins. The distance is shown in metres.

... metres ahead.

English • P 001 • Distance. The hazard or location identified by the associated sign is 200 m ahead. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 001

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Source revision 2023-08-09. Wikimedia original unmodified.

8. For metres

This supplementary sign indicates the length of the section to which the main traffic sign applies. The length is shown in metres.

For ... metres.

English • P 002 • Length. The hazard or regulation identified by the associated sign extends for 800 m. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 002

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Ireland - Department of Transport • Public domain • Source revision 2023-09-03. Wikimedia original unmodified.

9. Indicated height

This supplementary sign shows an indicated vehicle height. Read it together with the main traffic sign to determine how the height value affects the applicable rule or restriction.

Indicated height.

English • P 067 • Safe headroom. The safe headroom shown is 4.20 m at the overhead-cable hazard identified by the associated warning. Check the height of your vehicle and load before proceeding. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 067

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 067.

10. Disc parking, maximum 2 hours

This supplementary sign indicates that a parking disc must be used and parking is limited to a maximum of 2 hours.

Disc parking, maximum 2 hours.

English • P 053 • Disc parking. Disc parking is limited to 1 hour, Monday to Saturday, 08:30–18:30, as shown. Comply with the local disc-parking requirements. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 053
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

11. For the number of minutes shown

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies for the number of minutes shown.

For the number of minutes shown.

English • P 057 • Time limit. The permitted time for the activity identified by the associated sign is 15 minutes. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 057
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

SVG source: Government of Ireland - Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-10-07. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 057.

12. For the number of hours shown

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies for the number of hours shown.

For the number of hours shown.

English • P 055 • 24-hour operation. The restriction or regulation indicated by the associated sign applies for 24 hours. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 055
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2021-08-06. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 055.

13. During the time shown on the indicated days

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies during the time shown on the indicated days.

During the time shown on the indicated days.

English • P 051 • Periods of operation. The associated restriction or regulation applies Monday to Saturday, 09:30–16:00, as shown. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 051
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2021-08-06. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 051.

14. Minimum overtaking distance from cyclists

This supplementary sign indicates the minimum lateral distance to be kept from cyclists when overtaking. The required distance is shown on the sign.

Minimum overtaking distance from cyclists.

English • P 071 • Safe overtaking of cyclists — 1.5 m. The plate advises leaving at least 1.5 m when passing a cyclist. It is used where the speed limit exceeds 50 km/h; a separate 1.0 m plate is specified for roads with a limit of 50 km/h or less. Overtake only when it is safe. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 071
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • passing-distance advice note

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 071.

15. Recommended speed

This supplementary sign indicates a recommended speed rather than a maximum speed limit. Its legal effect depends on the applicable local rules.

Recommended speed.

16. Reduce speed now

This supplementary sign instructs or advises drivers to reduce speed immediately in connection with the situation indicated by the main traffic sign.

Reduce speed now.

English • P 040 • Reduce speed now. Reduce speed now for the hazard or change in road conditions indicated by the associated sign. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 040

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Ireland - Department of Transport • Public domain • Source revision 2023-09-03. Wikimedia original unmodified.

17. Drive slowly

This supplementary sign advises drivers to drive slowly in connection with the situation indicated by the main traffic sign.

Drive slowly.

English • P 080 • Slow. Slow down for the situation identified by the associated sign. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 080
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Ireland - Department of Transport • Public domain • Source revision 2023-08-17. Wikimedia original unmodified.

18. Speed in km/h

This supplementary sign indicates that the displayed speed is expressed in kilometres per hour (km/h).

Speed in km/h.

English • P 054 • km/h. The number shown on the associated speed sign is measured in kilometres per hour. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 054
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 054.

19. Traffic calming

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies in an area with traffic-calming measures.

Traffic calming.

English • P 063 • Traffic calming. Traffic-calming features are ahead, at the indicated distance of 400 m. Reduce speed appropriately. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 063

SVG source: EthanL13 • CC0 • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 063.

20. Pedestrian zone

This supplementary sign indicates that the main traffic sign applies to a pedestrian zone.

Pedestrian zone.

English • P 052 • Pedestrianised street exceptions. The associated pedestrianised-street restriction has a delivery exemption from 06:30 to 11:00, as shown. It permits loading or unloading at premises adjacent to, or accessible only from, the restricted street during that period. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 052
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-08-17. Wikimedia original unmodified.

21. Oncoming vehicles in the middle of the road

This supplementary sign warns that oncoming vehicles may use the middle of the road.

Oncoming vehicles in the middle of the road.

English • P 060 • Oncoming traffic in the middle of the road. Expect oncoming traffic near the middle of the road at the hazard indicated. Proceed only when it is safe. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 060

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 060.

22. Another train coming if lights continue flashing

This supplementary sign warns that another train may be approaching if the crossing lights continue flashing after a train has passed.

Another train coming if lights continue flashing.

English • P 061 • Another train coming. If the warning lights continue after one train passes, another train is approaching. Remain stopped and do not cross until the lights cease and it is safe. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 061

SVG source: Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Original revision 2023-12-18. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Artwork verified against Roadguidelines.ie • official published diagram P 061.

23. End

This supplementary sign indicates the end of the section to which the main traffic sign applies.

End.

English • P 010 • End. The regulation or restriction identified by the associated sign ends here. Other traffic rules and restrictions remain applicable. Read this supplementary plate together with the sign it qualifies.

Sources

🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Roadguidelines.ie • Department of Transport • Traffic Signs Manual • P 010
🔗 Irishstatutebook.ie • Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Regulations 2025 (EN)

Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Ireland – Department of Transport • Public domain • Source revision 2023-08-09. Wikimedia original unmodified.