This section covers mandatory signs, which are crucial instructions you must legally follow. These signs dictate specific actions, such as the direction you must travel, the lane you must use, or the path you must stick to. Understanding these signs is vital for both passing your theory exam and navigating traffic safely and efficiently.
An explanation of how Mandatory Signs (D) road signs apply in real traffic situations in Sweden. Learn where these signs are typically placed, what drivers are expected to do when they appear, and how correct reactions help you stay safe, avoid fines, and succeed in your Swedish driving theory exam.
Mandatory signs are typically encountered in various traffic scenarios where specific actions are required. For example, a 'Mandatory Direction' sign (D1) will appear before an intersection to force you to turn in a particular direction, often to manage traffic flow or avoid conflict points. 'Mandatory Lane' signs (D10) are common on multi-lane roads, directing buses or other authorised vehicles to specific lanes. Signs like 'Mandatory Footpath' (D5), 'Mandatory Cycle Path' (D4), or 'Shared Foot and Cycle Paths' (D6) are frequently found in urban and suburban areas, clearly separating different types of road users to enhance safety. A 'Roundabout' sign (D3) directs you into a circular intersection. You must always comply with these signs unless a supplementary plate indicates otherwise or the instruction ends at the next intersection or a specified distance. Failing to obey these signs can lead to confusion, dangerous situations, and penalties.
An overview of the key learning outcomes when studying the Mandatory Signs (D) road sign category. Understand the main concepts, sign meanings, and traffic situations covered here so you can recognise patterns, answer theory questions more confidently, and build a solid foundation for safe driving in Sweden.
Browse every road sign in the Mandatory Signs (D) category. Each sign includes a clear meaning, purpose, and examples of how it is used in Sweden, helping you build strong recognition skills and a detailed understanding of this group of Swedish traffic signs.
Mandatory Passing Side: Follow the Arrow's Direction!
Prepare for the D3 Roundabout Sign: Know How to Navigate Safely
D5 Mandatory Footpath: This path is exclusively for pedestrians.
D7 Sign: Know Your Lane on Separated Foot and Cycle Paths
The D8 Mandatory Bridleway sign indicates a path for horses and pedestrians.
Know the D10 Sign: Mandatory Lane for Public Transport and Authorised Vehicles
The D11 'End of Mandatory Path' Sign: Knowing When Special Routes Finish
D4 Mandatory Cycle Path: This is for Cyclists Only!
The D6 sign means a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.
D9: This is a Mandatory Trail for Off-road Vehicles and Pedestrians
Clear answers to common questions about the Mandatory Signs (D) road sign category. Use this FAQ to review tricky rules, understand how these signs appear in exam scenarios, and remove confusion that often leads to mistakes in the Swedish driving theory exam in Sweden.
A mandatory sign means you are legally required to follow the instruction given by the sign. This could be about the direction you must take, the lane you must use, or the specific path you must follow. These signs are not suggestions; they are direct orders to ensure traffic safety and order.
Generally, the instruction applies from the location of the sign until the next intersection. However, this can be changed by the sign itself or by a supplementary plate that indicates a different end point or distance for the mandatory instruction.
Mandatory signs tell you what you *must* do (e.g., 'Mandatory Direction' or 'Mandatory Cycle Path'). Prohibitory signs, on the other hand, tell you what you *must not* do (e.g., 'No Entry' or 'No Parking'). It's crucial to distinguish between these to understand your obligations as a driver.
While mandatory signs impose strict rules, exceptions can be indicated by supplementary plates. For instance, a sign might mandate a path for certain vehicles, but a supplementary plate could allow other specific traffic. Always check for any additional signs that might modify the main instruction.
A common mistake is assuming the instruction ends immediately after the sign, rather than understanding it continues until the next intersection or a specified distance. Another is confusing mandatory signs with optional signs or not understanding the implications for other road users when a specific path is mandated for certain vehicles, like public transport.
