Driving Theory
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.

Understanding the C31 Speed Limit Sign

Master the meaning of the Swedish C31 Speed Limit sign to ensure compliance and safety during your theory test revision. Proper recognition and adherence to this vital traffic sign explanation are essential for navigating Swedish roads correctly.

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.

Master Similar Speed Limit Signs

Comparing related speed limit signs and their nuances, like this C31, is key for accurate recognition and fewer mistakes during your theory test revision. Understanding these distinctions aids in remembering correct traffic rules and passing your Swedish driving licence exam.

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Ready to Master Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Rules?

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
CTA Decorative Squares

Dive into Swedish road sign knowledge

Swedish Moped Theory AM courseSwedish Driving Theory B courseC26 No U-Turn Swedish road signC35 No Parking Swedish road signC31 Speed Limit Swedish road signSwedish Motorcycle Theory A courseC7 No Heavy Trucks Swedish road signC14 No Horse Riding Swedish road signSymbols (S) Swedish road sign categoryC11 No Moped Class II Swedish road signC23 Maximum Axle Load Swedish road signC28 End of No Overtaking Swedish road signC16 Maximum Vehicle Width Swedish road signWarning Signs (A) Swedish road sign categoryRoad Markings (M) Swedish road sign categoryC17 Maximum Vehicle Height Swedish road signC22 Bearing Capacity Class Swedish road signMandatory Signs (D) Swedish road sign categoryTraffic Signals (L) Swedish road sign categoryInformation Signs (J) Swedish road sign categoryDirectional Signs (E) Swedish road sign categoryProhibitory Signs (C) Swedish road sign categoryC19 Minimum Following Distance Swedish road signC25 No Turning at Intersection Swedish road signLocalisation Signs (F) Swedish road sign categoryOther Road Devices (X) Swedish road sign categoryC34 Stop for the Stated Purpose Swedish road signC32 End of Temporary Speed Limit Swedish road signSupplementary Plates (T) Swedish road sign categoryC10 No Bicycles and Moped Class II Swedish road signC20 Maximum Gross Weight (Vehicle) Swedish road signC29 No Overtaking for Heavy Trucks Swedish road signC37 No Parking on Even-Numbered Days Swedish road signYield and Priority Signs (B) Swedish road sign categorySignals by Police Officer (P) Swedish road sign categoryC9 No Vehicles Carrying Dangerous Goods Swedish road signC3 No Motor Vehicles Except Moped Class II Swedish road signC4 No Motor Vehicles With More Than Two Wheels Swedish road signC13 No Off-Road Motor Vehicles and Off-Road Trailers Swedish road signC6 No Motor Vehicles With a Trailer (Specified Trailer Types) Swedish road sign