Driving Theory
Swedish Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Prepare for Motorway Driving: The E1 Motorway Entrance Sign

E1 - Motorway Swedish road sign meaning

The E1 'Motorway' sign indicates that you are about to enter a motorway section, where specific traffic rules and higher speeds apply. Access is controlled, and traffic typically flows in separate carriageways. As this is an information sign, it signals a change in road type and associated regulations, so be ready to adapt your driving. Always follow motorway rules from the point of the sign and be aware of any specific restrictions on slower vehicles or special stopping rules that may be in place.

Understanding the E1 Motorway Entrance Sign

This sign signals your entry onto a Swedish motorway, requiring adherence to specific high-speed rules and traffic flows. Familiarise yourself with its meaning for effective theory test revision and safe driving.

Definition of E1

This sign marks the start of a motorway section. On a motorway, access is controlled and traffic flows in separate carriageways with higher-speed travel. When used as advance information, the distance to the motorway start is shown on an additional plate. The symbol may also appear inside a direction or location sign to guide drivers early.

Meaning of E1

You are entering a motorway. Motorway-specific rules apply from here.

Allowed actions for E1

Follow motorway rules from the sign locationPrepare to merge safely and keep appropriate speed and distance

Prohibited actions for E1

Entering with a vehicle not permitted on motorwaysStopping or parking except where explicitly allowed

E1 - Motorway road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the E1 - Motorway 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 E1 'Motorway' sign mean for my driving?

When you see the E1 'Motorway' sign, it means you are entering a motorway. This means you must adhere to motorway-specific rules, which often include higher speed limits, restrictions on certain types of vehicles (like mopeds or agricultural machinery), and specific rules for stopping, parking, and overtaking. Prepare to adjust your speed and be mindful of other traffic.

What vehicles are not allowed on a motorway after seeing the E1 sign?

Generally, vehicles that cannot maintain a minimum speed or are not designed for high-speed travel are prohibited on motorways. This typically includes mopeds, motorcycles below a certain engine capacity, agricultural tractors, and vehicles towing excessively heavy or unstable loads. Always check the specific regulations for your vehicle type.

Are there special rules for stopping or parking on a motorway?

Yes, stopping or parking on the main carriageway of a motorway is strictly prohibited unless it's an emergency or you are in a designated emergency stopping area or rest stop. The E1 sign signifies that these stricter rules are now in effect. If you need to stop, use the nearest designated area.

What should I do if I see an additional plate with a distance below the E1 sign?

If the E1 'Motorway' sign has an additional plate showing a distance, such as '2 km', it means the actual start of the motorway section is that distance ahead. This sign serves as advance warning, allowing you to prepare for the upcoming change in road type and rules. You do not need to follow motorway rules until you reach the end of that indicated distance.

E1 - Motorway road sign image

A clear reference image of the E1 - Motorway road sign used in Sweden.

E1 - Motorway road sign

Other names for the E1 - Motorway

The E1 - Motorway road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Highway beginsStart of motorwayMotorway startFreeway begins

Directional Signs (E) road sign category

The E1 - Motorway road sign is part of the Directional Signs (E) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Road Sign Knowledge

Mastering Swedish road signs means understanding subtle differences. Comparing signs like the Motorway entrance with others from the Directional Signs group sharpens recognition and reduces errors, which is key for your theory test revision and overall driving safety. Explore these traffic sign comparisons to solidify your understanding.

E10 - End of Walking Speed Area road sign

End of Walking Speed Area

E10 Road Sign: You Are Leaving the Walking Speed Area

Directional Signs (E)E10
E11 - Recommended Lower Speed road sign

Recommended Lower Speed

The E11 sign recommends a lower speed for your safety and comfort.

Directional Signs (E)E11
E12 - End of Recommended Lower Speed road sign

End of Recommended Lower Speed

The E12 Sign: Your Signal That Recommended Lower Speeds No Longer Apply

Directional Signs (E)E12
E13 - Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) road sign

Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign)

Understand the Variable Recommended Maximum Speed Sign (E13)

Directional Signs (E)E13
E14 - End of Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) road sign

End of Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign)

The E14 sign marks the end of a recommended maximum speed advisory.

Directional Signs (E)E14
E15 - Weaving Section road sign

Weaving Section

Prepare for the Weaving Section sign where lanes merge ahead.

Directional Signs (E)E15
E16 - One-way Traffic road sign

One-way Traffic

E16 One-way Traffic: Follow the Arrow's Direction

Directional Signs (E)E16
E17 - Dead End Road road sign

Dead End Road

The E17 Dead End Road sign means your route ahead is blocked.

Directional Signs (E)E17
Deepen your understanding through targeted theory modules and practical application exercises.

Connect visual signage with essential Swedish traffic rules by exploring our curated set of practice questions and detailed road safety explanations. These resources reinforce your ability to interpret complex road situations according to Transportstyrelsen standards.

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Road sign

Expressway (Motor Traffic Road)

This sign indicates the start of a motor traffic road, a road type designed primarily for motor vehicles. It often has restrictions on certain slower road users and is built for smoother traffic flow. When used as advance information, the distance to the start is shown on an additional plate. The symbol may also be integrated into a direction or location sign.

Road sign

Increase in Number of Lanes

An Increase in Number of Lanes sign tells you that an additional lane will begin ahead, changing the road layout. The symbol is adapted to the local situation and may include vehicle-type symbols or route numbers. It can also be used as advance information, with the distance to the lane increase shown on an additional plate. The sign helps you anticipate merging behaviour, traffic distribution, and lane selection so that you can drive smoothly and safely.

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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Dive into Swedish road sign knowledge

E26 Tunnel Swedish road signE1 Motorway Swedish road signSwedish Moped Theory AM courseSwedish Driving Theory B courseE20 Zone Sign Swedish road signE25 Toll Road Swedish road signSwedish Motorcycle Theory A courseE29 Escape Route Swedish road signE5 Built-up Area Swedish road signE18 Passing Place Swedish road signE17 Dead End Road Swedish road signE28 Emergency Exit Swedish road signE2 End of Motorway Swedish road signE15 Weaving Section Swedish road signE16 One-way Traffic Swedish road signSymbols (S) Swedish road sign categoryE7 Pedestrian Street Swedish road signE9 Walking Speed Area Swedish road signE6 End of Built-up Area Swedish road signWarning Signs (A) Swedish road sign categoryRoad Markings (M) Swedish road sign categoryE11 Recommended Lower Speed Swedish road signE8 End of Pedestrian Street Swedish road signMandatory Signs (D) Swedish road sign categoryTraffic Signals (L) Swedish road sign categoryE27 Emergency Stopping Place Swedish road signE10 End of Walking Speed Area Swedish road signInformation Signs (J) Swedish road sign categoryDirectional Signs (E) Swedish road sign categoryProhibitory Signs (C) Swedish road sign categoryLocalisation Signs (F) Swedish road sign categoryOther Road Devices (X) Swedish road sign categorySupplementary Plates (T) Swedish road sign categoryE3 Expressway (Motor Traffic Road) Swedish road signE12 End of Recommended Lower Speed Swedish road signYield and Priority Signs (B) Swedish road sign categorySignals by Police Officer (P) Swedish road sign categoryE4 End of Expressway (Motor Traffic Road) Swedish road signE13 Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) Swedish road signE14 End of Recommended Maximum Speed (Variable Sign) Swedish road sign