The E13 sign displays a recommended maximum speed that is temporarily lower than the legal limit. This changeable sign is used to advise drivers to reduce their speed due to current conditions like traffic, weather, or incidents, ensuring safer driving. Although it's a recommendation, you should always take it seriously and adjust your speed accordingly, especially as it's designed to reflect real-time hazards and is often below the general speed limit for the road.
Learn the key details of the E13 - Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) 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 sign is used as a changeable (variable) road sign and indicates that conditions are temporarily such that higher speeds are not suitable. The displayed value is always lower than the legal maximum speed for the road. It provides real-time guidance to reduce risk during incidents, weather events, congestion, or other temporary hazards. Although it is a recommendation, it is intended to match safe driving for the current situation and should be taken seriously.
A temporary recommended maximum speed is shown. Do not exceed the displayed value in the current conditions.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the E13 - Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) 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 E13 sign shows a recommended maximum speed for the current conditions. This is a temporary advisory speed that is always lower than the legal maximum speed for that road. It's displayed on variable signs to alert you to potential hazards or reduced visibility.
While not a strict prohibition like a permanent speed limit sign, the E13 is a strong recommendation from the authorities to drive at a safer speed for the current conditions. Failing to adhere to the displayed recommended speed, especially if it contributes to an accident, could be seen as disregarding safe driving practices. You should always adapt your speed to match the sign and the conditions.
Variable signs like the E13 are often used on motorways or major roads where conditions can change rapidly. You might see them activated during heavy traffic congestion, adverse weather (fog, heavy rain, ice), accidents ahead, roadworks, or other temporary safety concerns to proactively reduce risks.
A regular speed limit sign (like E10 or E11) indicates the absolute legal maximum speed you must not exceed. The E13 sign, however, suggests a speed that is *recommended* for the specific, temporary conditions. It's always lower than the legal maximum and implies that even the legal maximum might be too fast for safety at that moment.
A common exam trap is thinking the E13 sign is optional or unimportant because it's a 'recommendation'. In reality, it's crucial for safe driving and demonstrating awareness of changing conditions. Treat it as a directive to slow down. Another trap is confusing it with a permanent speed limit; remember it's variable and context-dependent.
A clear reference image of the E13 - Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) road sign used in Sweden.

The E13 - Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The E13 - Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) road sign is part of the Directional Signs (E) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.