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Driving School Roof Sign Buying Guide
TOP NOTCH SIGNS & GRAPHICS
Driving School Roof Sign Buying Guide: Sizes, Styles and Vehicle Fit
Compare the complete Top Notch Signs range by size, shape, branding space, colour and number of magnets. This guide is designed to help driving instructors choose confidently and order the correct roof sign online.
Last updated: 6 October 2026
Roof signs used on popular driving school cars
To help you choose, we’ve listed examples of roof signs we have previously supplied for these vehicle models. These are based on real customer orders and photographs of the signs fitted, so they provide a useful starting point when deciding which style may suit your car. Roof construction can vary by model year and trim, so please check your exact vehicle before ordering.
| Vehicle make and model | Roof sign and size |
|---|---|
| Citroën C3 | SOM13 Airflow |
| Fiat 500 | Small SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Ford Fiesta Mk8 | SOM10 Pyramid / SOM13 Airflow |
| Ford Focus Mk4 | Standard SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Ford Puma | Standard SOM1 / SOM2; SOM10 Pyramid; SOM13 Airflow |
| Hyundai i20 | Standard SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Nissan Micra | Standard SOM7 |
| Peugeot 208 | SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Renault Zoe | SOM1 / SOM2 |
| SEAT Ibiza | Standard SOM1 / SOM2 |
| SEAT Leon | Standard SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Vauxhall Corsa | Small SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Vauxhall Mokka | SOM1 / SOM2 |
| Volkswagen Golf | Standard SOM1 / SOM2; SOM4 |
| Volkswagen Polo | SOM1 / SOM2; Standard SOM7 |
Can’t see your car listed? Send us the make, model, registration year and a clear photo of the roof and we can help you choose the most suitable options.
Compare driving school roof signs
Measurements below come from Top Notch specification drawings. Dimensions are stated in millimetres. W means width, D depth, H height and L length. Please note: all height (H) measurements include the magnets on the base of the roof sign. A measurement range reflects a tapered or curved face.
Top Notch roof sign comparison table
| Roof sign | Size | Dimensions and branding area | Shape and branding position | Vehicle exclusions and fit guidance | Colours | Magnets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOM1 View SOM1 |
Small or Standard | Standard: 790 W × 265 D × 246 H. Branding area: 680–750 W × 200 H. Small: 721 W × 265 D × 250 H. Branding area: 613–683 W × 186–204 H. |
Classic long box with a straight, level top. Large branding panels run along both sides. | Standard size: Not recommended for the Ford Ka, Corsa (2007+), Micra, Beetle, Fiat 500, Hyundai i10, Mini One or Citroën DS3. For these vehicles, choose Small SOM1 or Small SOM2. Both sizes: Neither size is recommended for the Toyota Yaris, Aygo X or roofs with raised longitudinal ridges. For these roofs, consider SOM12. |
Black, white or illuminated | 5 |
| SOM2 View SOM2 |
Small or Standard | Standard: 790 W × 265 D × 246 H. Branding area: 520–545 W × 190 H. Small: 722 W × 265 D × 250 H. Branding area: 485–489 W × 180–200 H. |
Traditional long box with a raised legal-size L section and branding panels beside it. | Standard size: Not recommended for the Ford Ka, Corsa (2007+), Micra, Beetle, Fiat 500, Hyundai i10, Mini One or Citroën DS3. For these vehicles, choose Small SOM1 or Small SOM2. Both sizes: Neither size is recommended for the Toyota Yaris, Aygo X or roofs with raised longitudinal ridges. For these roofs, consider SOM12. |
Black, white or illuminated | 5 |
| SOM4 View SOM4 |
Standard | 790 W × 265 D × 279 H. Graphic area: 690–760 W × 185 H. The raised centre section is 180 W; the corresponding cut-out in the graphic area where the L is placed is 180 W × 140 H. | Long box with a full legal-size L in the centre and branding panels on either side. | Always check the roof dimensions, material and contour. | White or illuminated | 5 |
| SOM6 View SOM6 |
Standard | 790 W × 265 D × 246 H. Branding area: 680–750 W × 200 H. | Smooth curved top with large curved-side branding panels. | Always check the roof dimensions, material and contour. | White or illuminated | 5 |
| SOM7 View SOM7 |
Standard | 790 W × 265 D × 262 H. Branding area: 461–560 W × 185 H. | Sloping top with an angled legal-size L and branding beside it. | Always check the roof dimensions, material and contour. | White or illuminated | 5 |
| SOM10 Pyramid View SOM10 |
One size | Approximately 600 W × 600 D × 385 H; face width 610. Branding area: approximately 520 W × 410 H. | Four-sided pyramid with a visible panel on the front, rear and both sides. | Always check the roof dimensions, material and contour. | White; illuminated version also available | 4 |
| SOM12 Top Hat View SOM12 |
One compact size | 265 W × 265 D × 235 H. Branding area: sides 195 W × 200 H; front/rear 235 W × 220 H. | Compact upright top-hat shape for a prominent L or P plate and short branding. | An option to consider for the Toyota Yaris, Aygo X and roofs with raised longitudinal ridges. Roof material and available mounting area must still be checked. | White | 5 |
| SOM13 Airflow View SOM13 |
One size | 625 L × 590 W × 200 H. Print areas: top 335 × 560; sides 540 × 190; rear 250 × 180. | Aerodynamic swept profile with branding on the top, sides and rear. | Fits most vehicles with a suitable steel roof and mounting area. Not recommended for the Ford Ka, Corsa (2007+), Micra, Beetle, Fiat 500, Hyundai i10, Mini One or Citroën DS3. For these vehicles, choose Small SOM1 or Small SOM2. Always check the roof dimensions, material and contour. | Black or white | 5 |
Which style is best for you?
For the widest size choice
Start with SOM1 or SOM2. Both have Small and Standard versions, making them useful options when the available steel roof area is limited.
For branding from four directions
SOM10 has four faces, so the school name or learner message can be seen from the front, rear and both sides.
For a compact learner sign
SOM12 has a small footprint and upright faces. It suits a simple L or P plate and short, uncluttered branding.
For a central legal-size L
SOM4 places the L in a raised central section. SOM2 and SOM7 also provide distinct raised or angled L areas.
For an aerodynamic appearance
SOM13 has a streamlined profile and offers print areas on the top, sides and rear.
For evening visibility
Choose an illuminated option where available. UK illuminated signs use a red shield at the rear, which creates a pink tint when lit outside the L section.
Electric, hybrid and automatic driving school cars
The powertrain itself does not determine whether a magnetic roof sign will fit. What matters is the roof material, contour and the amount of usable steel beneath the magnets. Newer electric, hybrid and automatic cars may also be offered with panoramic glass or different roof constructions across trim levels, so check the exact model and roof specification before ordering.
Check your vehicle roof before ordering
A magnetic sign needs enough suitable steel beneath every magnet. The vehicle model alone does not guarantee a fit because roof construction can change between generations and trim levels.
- Check the exact make, model and registration year.
- Confirm that the mounting area is steel rather than glass, aluminium or composite material.
- Look for panoramic glass, a sunroof, roof rails, raised ribs and strong roof contours.
- Check whether an aerial limits the usable space.
- Compare the available roof area with the dimensions in the table.
- Make sure every magnet will sit securely on a suitable surface.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose a Small or Standard roof sign?
Choose according to the usable steel area and contour of your roof, not just the overall size of the car. The Small SOM1 and SOM2 are shorter and have a more curved base. Measure the roof and compare it with the specification before ordering. If you are unsure which size will best suit your car, please give us a call and we will be happy to help.
Will a magnetic roof sign attach to a panoramic or glass roof?
No. Magnets require a suitable steel surface. A glass, aluminium or composite roof needs an appropriate alternative mounting method. Contact Top Notch Signs before ordering so the roof construction and mounting requirements can be checked.
Can my logo and contact details be printed on the sign?
Yes. Printed roof signs can carry your driving school name, logo, telephone number, website and other suitable graphics. Keep important details large and uncluttered so they can be read while the car is moving.
Can you design the sign for me?
Yes. Our free design service is included with printed roof signs. You can order and make payment online without having the final design ready. We will contact you to discuss your requirements, and you can send us your wording, colours, logo and any other graphics you would like included. We will always email you a design proof to check and approve before we make your roof sign, so nothing goes into production without your approval.
Can the graphics on my existing roof sign be replaced?
Yes. If your roof sign is still in suitable condition, we can produce replacement graphics to refresh the design or update your driving school name, logo, telephone number or other details. We can send the new graphics to you ready to apply to your existing roof sign. Alternatively, if you are local to us, you can drop your roof sign off at our premises and we can apply them for you. View replacement roof-sign graphics.
Are your magnetic roof signs safe and secure?
Our roof signs are fitted with very strong magnets and have been tested by us on a runway at speeds of up to 80mph, where they remained firmly in position. However, this testing cannot account for every vehicle, weather condition, headwind, roof surface, damage or incorrect fitting and does not guarantee performance in all circumstances. The sign must be correctly fitted to a clean, suitable steel roof, checked before every journey and removed if it becomes damaged or insecure. Drivers must always follow the fitting instructions, drive according to the conditions and never exceed the applicable national speed limit.
Do your roof signs comply with DVSA requirements?
Yes. DVSA guidance requires learner vehicles to display a red L on a white background, using the prescribed legal dimensions, and for it to be clearly visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle. Our driving-school roof signs are suitable for displaying the required legal-size L plate when correctly designed and fitted. We can ensure the L plate element is produced to the correct size as part of your artwork. View the official GOV.UK L-plate guidance.
What is roof-sign rim rubber, and do I need it?
Rim rubber is a protective rubber trim that fits around the base of your roof sign. It helps create a softer edge between the sign and the vehicle, reducing the risk of marking the paintwork. It is particularly useful if your car does not already have a roof protector fitted. Rim rubber is available in the correct length for each of our roof-sign styles and can be ordered online here.
Can I also order magnetic door and bonnet signs?
Yes. We supply pairs of rectangular magnetic signs for vehicle doors, along with a choice of shaped magnetic signs for bonnets. These can be ordered online, or you can email us if you would like to add matching door or bonnet signs to your roof-sign order. We can use the same branding across all your signs for a consistent, professional look.
Which driving schools have you worked with?
Top Notch Signs is well known within the driver-training industry, and we have supplied signs and vehicle branding to hundreds of driving schools over the years. Our work includes roof signs, magnetic vehicle signs, vinyl graphics, signwriting and vehicle wraps. Customers range from local businesses such as Barnes Driving Academy to larger driving schools including Drive 321.
How many magnets do the signs have?
SOM1, SOM2, SOM4, SOM6, SOM7, SOM12 and SOM13 have five heavy-duty base magnets according to their specification sheets. The standard SOM10 Pyramid has four. Confirm the illuminated SOM10 arrangement before ordering.
How should I clean and care for my roof sign?
Remove the roof sign before washing the vehicle. Clean the sign, its magnetic base and the vehicle roof with mild soap and warm water to remove dirt or grit that could mark the paintwork. Avoid strong chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these may damage the finish, lettering or printed graphics. Dry the sign and roof thoroughly before refitting, and regularly check the magnets, covers and base for dirt, wear or damage. Disconnect an illuminated sign from the vehicle before cleaning it.
Are illuminated roof signs available?
Yes. Illuminated versions are available in selected SOM shapes and connect to the vehicle’s 12-volt socket. Check the product options and confirm compatibility with your vehicle.
Ready to order your driving school roof sign?
Choose a plain or professionally printed sign, send us your artwork or tell us what you would like included. Top Notch Signs supplies driving instructors throughout the UK from its Hampshire workshop at Solent Airport, Lee-on-the-Solent.
Information checked: 6 October 2026. Measurements were transcribed from Top Notch roof-sign specification drawings. Product availability and vehicle construction can change, so check the relevant product page and your vehicle before ordering.
