The general criterion used to verify the cathodic protection (CP) condition of a structure is based on structure-to-electrolyte potential measurement in compliance with the protection criteria provided by international standards. Among the available techniques to eliminate the ohmic drop contribution in the potential readings on-off technique is typically used when local fixed reference electrode or potential probes are not installed. Laboratory tests were carried out in soil-simulating solution on carbon steel specimens in CP condition in order to evaluate the effectiveness of off-potential technique for the assessment of CP condition. Quasi-immunity and overprotection conditions were considered. The limitations of the off-potential technique are discussed; the technique is not reliable in overprotection condition in the presence of equalising currents or under DC interference. A guidance to the interpretation of off-potential measurements is provided