The M20 Mandatory Lane Change marking is a crucial sign used in Swedish traffic to guide drivers when a lane ends or merges. It clearly indicates that you must change lanes as soon as it is safe and practical to do so. This sign is important for preventing last-second, potentially dangerous merges, and it also serves as a warning for stricter lane separation ahead. Always signal, check your mirrors and blind spot, and merge smoothly with traffic.
Learn the key details of the M20 - Mandatory Lane Change road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in Sweden. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Swedish driving theory exam.
This marking is used where a lane ends, merges, or becomes restricted, and drivers must move out of it promptly. It prevents last second merging and reduces side swipe risk by prompting early action. When placed between opposing directions, it can also serve as an advance warning that stricter separation, such as a solid line, appears further ahead. Correct response is to signal, check, and merge smoothly with adequate gaps.
A marking indicating you must change lanes as soon as possible. On two way sections it can also warn that a solid line or equivalent separation is ahead.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the M20 - Mandatory Lane Change road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the Swedish driving theory exam in Sweden.
The M20 Mandatory Lane Change marking signifies that the lane you are currently in will end or merge with another lane ahead. You are required to change lanes to an adjacent, open lane as soon as possible and safely.
Upon seeing the M20 sign, you must prepare to change lanes. Signal your intention, check your mirrors and blind spots for other vehicles, and merge into the next lane smoothly when there is a safe gap. Do not wait until the very last moment.
A common trap is delaying the lane change until the last possible moment, which can cause congestion and increase the risk of collision. Another mistake is failing to check blind spots before merging. The theory test expects you to react proactively and safely.
Yes, on two-way sections, the M20 marking can also act as an advance warning that a solid line or another form of strict separation is ahead. This gives you extra time to prepare for changes in traffic flow or lane restrictions.
No, accelerating to force a merge is prohibited and dangerous. The correct procedure is to adjust your speed to fit cooperatively into a safe gap in the adjacent lane. This sign is about orderly merging, not aggressive driving.
A clear reference image of the M20 - Mandatory Lane Change road sign used in Sweden.
The M20 - Mandatory Lane Change road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The M20 - Mandatory Lane Change road sign is part of the Road Markings (M) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.