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Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Understand the Stop Hand Signal (X10) from a Traffic Controller

X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) Swedish road sign meaning

The X10 'Stop' sign is a crucial hand signal given by a traffic controller, guard, or similar official, indicating you must stop immediately. This signal takes priority over all other traffic rules, so you must obey it. In darkness, a red lamp is used to signal stop, ensuring visibility. Pay close attention to the controller and wait for their 'proceed' signal before moving.

About the X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign

Learn the key details of the X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) 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 X10

The Stop hand signal is a Swedish traffic control sign given by a road traffic controller, guard, or similar official. It means that the road user the controller is facing must stop immediately and remain stopped until further instruction is given. In darkness, the stop signal is given using a lamp showing a red light to ensure visibility. The stop command can also be given using sign C34 (stop for a specified purpose) together with the text 'Vakt', indicating that the stop is controlled by a guard. This signal has high priority and must be obeyed even if it conflicts with your intended movement.

Meaning of X10

You must stop. The signal applies to the road user the controller is facing.

Allowed actions for X10

Stopping immediately in a safe positionWaiting until the controller gives a proceed instructionKeeping attention on the controller and surrounding traffic

Prohibited actions for X10

Continuing to drive when the controller signals stopPassing the controller or the controlled point without permissionStarting to move again before a clear proceed signal

X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) 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 X10 Stop (Hand Signal) mean?

The X10 'Stop' hand signal means you must stop your vehicle immediately and remain stopped until the traffic controller gives you a 'proceed' signal. This signal is directed only at the road user the controller is facing.

Who gives the X10 Stop signal and why?

The X10 'Stop' signal is given by authorized traffic controllers, guards, or officials to manage traffic flow, often at temporary roadworks, construction sites, or events. They use hand signals or a red lamp in darkness to ensure you stop safely.

Do I have to stop if the controller faces away from me?

No, the X10 'Stop' signal only applies to the road user the controller is directly facing. If the controller is facing away from you, or signalling to traffic on a different approach, you do not need to stop unless other signs or signals indicate otherwise.

What are common mistakes with the X10 Stop signal in the theory exam?

A common exam trap is to continue driving if you see a controller but are unsure if the signal is directed at you, or to start moving before a clear 'proceed' signal. Always confirm the signal's target and wait for explicit instruction to move. Remember, this signal overrides other traffic rules.

What should I do if I see the X10 Stop signal at night?

At night, or in low visibility conditions, the traffic controller will use a lamp showing a red light to give the 'Stop' signal. You must stop immediately when you see this red light signal and wait for the clear instruction to proceed.

X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign image

A clear reference image of the X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign used in Sweden.

X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign

Other names for the X10 - Stop (Hand Signal)

The X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Traffic controller stop signalGuard stop signalRed lamp stop signalStop command by controller

Other Road Devices (X) road sign category

The X10 - Stop (Hand Signal) road sign is part of the Other Road Devices (X) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.