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Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

What the C31 Speed Limit sign means and how to obey it

C31 - Speed Limit Swedish road sign meaning

The C31 'Speed Limit' sign is a crucial prohibition sign in Sweden, indicating the maximum speed you are legally allowed to drive on that specific stretch of road. You must not exceed the speed shown on the sign, but remember that the posted limit is a maximum. Always adjust your speed downwards if road, traffic, or weather conditions, such as rain, ice, or poor visibility, make it unsafe to drive at the maximum permitted speed. Paying attention to this sign is vital for both road safety and passing your Swedish driving theory exam.

About the C31 - Speed Limit road sign

Learn the key details of the C31 - Speed Limit 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.

Definition of C31

This sign sets a maximum speed that drivers are not allowed to exceed. The number shown indicates the highest permitted speed for vehicles on that road section. Speed limits are used to manage risk, protect vulnerable road users, reduce crash severity, and support traffic flow. The restriction begins at the sign location and continues until changed by another speed sign or the applicable default rules. Drivers must adjust speed to conditions and stay within the posted maximum at all times.

Meaning of C31

You must not drive faster than the speed shown on the sign.

Allowed actions for C31

Keep your speed at or below the posted limitAdjust speed downward for weather and trafficMonitor your speedometer regularly

Prohibited actions for C31

Exceeding the posted speedAccelerating above the limit to overtakeMaintaining a speed that is unsafe for conditions

C31 - Speed Limit road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the C31 - Speed Limit 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.

What does the C31 Speed Limit sign require me to do?

The C31 sign requires you to drive at a speed no faster than the number indicated on the sign. For example, a '50' sign means you must not drive over 50 km/h. However, this is a maximum, and you must always drive at a speed that is safe for the prevailing conditions, which may be slower than the posted limit.

Is the speed shown on the C31 sign the minimum speed I must drive?

No, the C31 sign indicates the maximum permissible speed, not the minimum. You are allowed to drive slower than the posted limit, and indeed you must do so if conditions such as heavy rain, fog, ice, or dense traffic make it unsafe to maintain the maximum speed.

How long does the C31 Speed Limit apply?

The speed limit indicated by the C31 sign applies from the point where the sign is placed until it is either cancelled by an 'End of Speed Limit' sign (often indicated by a diagonal bar across the speed number) or superseded by a new speed limit sign. Always be aware of subsequent signs that might change the limit.

Are there any common theory test traps related to the C31 Speed Limit sign?

A common trap is forgetting that the posted speed is a maximum and not a target. Learners might also forget to consider actual driving conditions; if conditions are poor, you must reduce your speed even if it's well below the posted limit. Understanding that you must adapt to conditions is key for the theory exam.

What does it mean if there are additional notes about driving slower than the limit?

The additional notes reinforce that the posted speed is the absolute maximum. They serve as a reminder that factors like adverse weather (rain, snow, ice), poor visibility, heavy traffic, or road conditions (like sharp bends or roadworks) necessitate driving at a reduced speed to ensure safety. Always err on the side of caution.

C31 - Speed Limit road sign image

A clear reference image of the C31 - Speed Limit road sign used in Sweden.

C31 - Speed Limit road sign

Other names for the C31 - Speed Limit

The C31 - Speed Limit road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Maximum speedSpeed restrictionSpeed limit signDo not exceed speed

Prohibitory Signs (C) road sign category

The C31 - Speed Limit road sign is part of the Prohibitory Signs (C) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

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