The D2 Mandatory Passing Side sign is a blue circular traffic sign with a white arrow, instructing you to pass an obstruction, island, or refuge on the side indicated. If two arrows are shown, you may choose either side, but always select the safest option. This sign is crucial for ensuring you navigate road features safely and avoid conflicts with oncoming traffic or other road users.
Mastering the mandatory passing side sign, or D2, is crucial for safe navigation and passing obstructions as indicated by Swedish traffic rules. This sign's clear arrow direction is vital for your theory test revision and for avoiding dangerous road situations.
This sign is a mandatory instruction telling drivers which side of an obstruction, island, refuge, or traffic separator they must pass. It is typically shown as a blue circular sign with a white arrow pointing left or right, and sometimes with two arrows indicating both sides are permitted. The symbol may be adapted to local conditions, reflecting the physical layout of the road feature. Legally, it prevents drivers from choosing an unsafe side that could cause conflicts with oncoming traffic or pedestrians near the island.
You must pass the sign on the side indicated by the arrow. If two arrows are shown, you may pass on either of the indicated sides.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the D2 - Mandatory Passing Side 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 D2 sign means you must pass the obstruction or island to the side shown by the white arrow. If there are two arrows, you can pass on either side, but you should still consider traffic conditions and choose the safer path.
You are prohibited from passing the obstruction on the side not indicated by the arrow. You must not attempt to cross into opposing traffic to bypass the instruction or cut across the traffic island or refuge itself.
You'll often see the D2 sign near traffic islands, roadworks where space is restricted (chicanes), or central refuges on wider roads. It's placed to guide traffic safely around these features.
The main flexibility is when two arrows are shown, allowing you to choose your side. However, you must always choose a safe side. You should also be prepared to slow down and merge safely if the roadway narrows significantly.
The theory test might ask what you should do when you see a D2 sign, especially if two arrows are depicted. The key is understanding that you must follow the direction of the arrow(s) and prioritize safety when choosing a side.
A clear reference image of the D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign used in Sweden.

The D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign is part of the Mandatory Signs (D) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing the Mandatory Passing Side sign (D2) with other blue mandatory signs aids your theory test revision by highlighting key differences. This focused approach to traffic sign comparison improves your ability to recognise signs instantly, reducing errors in your exam preparation.

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This sign is a blue circular mandatory sign with one (or sometimes two) white arrow(s). It requires drivers to follow the direction(s) indicated, meaning you are not permitted to continue straight, turn, or enter a different direction than the arrow allows. The arrow design may be adapted to match the exact layout of the junction or roadway. In practice, it is used at intersections, channelised junctions, and one-way guidance points to force a safe and orderly traffic flow.
The Yellow Light Arrow device provides a highly visible instruction showing which side road users must pass. It is commonly used where an obstacle, work zone, or temporary traffic arrangement requires vehicles to be guided to one side. The illuminated arrows can be steady or flashing to draw attention, especially in darkness or poor visibility. The device is directive rather than advisory, meaning you are expected to follow the indicated passing side. It helps prevent head on conflicts and keeps traffic aligned with the safe route through restricted or diverted sections.
After reviewing this complete list of Swedish road signs, deepen your understanding by exploring signs by category or practicing with simulated test questions. Solidify your recognition skills and ensure you are fully prepared for every aspect of the official driving theory exam.
All Swedish Road Signs List