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Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Mandatory Passing Side: Follow the Arrow's Direction!

D2 - Mandatory Passing Side Swedish road sign meaning

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.

Interpreting the Mandatory Passing Side Sign (D2)

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.

Definition of D2

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.

Meaning of D2

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.

Allowed actions for D2

Pass the sign on the side shown by the arrowPass on either side if two arrows are displayedSlow down and merge safely if the roadway narrows

Prohibited actions for D2

Passing the obstruction on the forbidden sideCrossing into opposing traffic to avoid the instructionCutting across a traffic island or refuge

D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign FAQ

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.

What does the D2 Mandatory Passing Side sign mean?

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.

What actions are prohibited when I see a D2 sign?

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.

When would I typically encounter the D2 Mandatory Passing Side sign?

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.

Are there any exceptions to the D2 sign rule?

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.

How can this sign appear on the theory test?

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.

D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign image

A clear reference image of the D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign used in Sweden.

D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign

Other names for the D2 - Mandatory Passing Side

The D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Keep leftKeep rightPass this sideMandatory sideObstruction passing side

Mandatory Signs (D) road sign category

The D2 - Mandatory Passing Side road sign is part of the Mandatory Signs (D) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Master Similar Road Signs

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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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
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