End of temporary restrictions signal: what it means
The END signal on a motorway means the temporary restrictions shown by the signals before it have ended.
What does the end of temporary restrictions signal mean?
Know your traffic signs lists this signal as “end of temporary restrictions”. Rule 257 says only increase your speed when you pass a signal that is not flashing, or a sign showing the national speed limit or END, and you are sure it is safe.
Quick quiz
What does the sign at the top of this page mean?
- Risk of fog ahead.
- Lane closed: do not drive in it.
- The temporary restrictions end here.
Show answer
C. The temporary restrictions end here. It marks the end of temporary restrictions (Know your traffic signs). Source: Know your traffic signs: motorway signs, signals and road markings, GOV.UK; The Highway Code, rule 257, GOV.UK; The Highway Code, rule 258, GOV.UK; Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Where will you see it?
On motorway signals after an incident, fog or a lane closure.
What should you do?
Speed up only when it is safe, and keep to the normal speed limit for the road.
What do people get wrong?
Speeding up before you reach the END signal.
Common questions
What speed limit applies after END?
The speed limit for the road and your vehicle, unless signs show otherwise.
Can a lane closure end the same way?
Yes. Rule 258 says a sign shows a speed limit or END when a lane is no longer closed.
Compare with
Want to test someone else? Play a road-sign quiz with friends and family.
Sources
Checked on 4 November 2026 against Know your traffic signs (motorway signs, signals and road markings) and The Highway Code rules 257 and 258.
- Know your traffic signs: motorway signs, signals and road markings, GOV.UK
- The Highway Code, rule 257, GOV.UK
- The Highway Code, rule 258, GOV.UK
- Traffic sign images, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Traffic sign images are Crown copyright, from the Department for Transport. Sources and image credits.