Teorio
Mandatory lane
The sign indicates that drivers shall pass the sign on the side towards which the arrow points.
When you see the sign
You must pass the sign on the side indicated by the arrow, which means on the left side for sign 404.2. The sign requires you to pass on a specific side, but does not necessarily mean that you must turn left after passing it.
Rules
- You must pass the sign on the left side, in the direction indicated by the arrow.
- This requirement applies at the sign itself and at the obstruction or traffic island where the sign is positioned.
- You cannot choose to pass on the right, even if that side appears passable.
- The sign determines which side you must pass on, not which direction you must continue in after passing it.
Tips
- Move into the correct lane well before reaching the sign.
- Look for traffic islands, temporary barriers or roadworks that explain why traffic is being directed to the left.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot before changing position to follow the arrow.
- Reduce your speed if necessary, especially when the passage around the sign is narrow.
Common misconceptions
- Many people think that the arrow requires a left turn, but it only indicates which side of the sign you must pass on.
- Some confuse the sign with a compulsory direction of travel sign and think they must continue to the left after passing it.
- Some believe they can choose which side to use if there is no other traffic, but the required passing side is mandatory.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign mean?
- AYou must drive straight ahead at the sign.
- BYou must turn left at the sign.
- CYou may pass the sign on either side.
- DYou must pass the sign on the left side.
Medium
The sign is placed on a traffic island, and it is possible to drive on both sides. What must you do?
- AI must pass the traffic island on the right side.
- BI must stop in front of the traffic island and wait.
- CI must pass the traffic island on the left side.
- DI must choose the side with the least traffic.
Hard
After you have correctly passed the sign, you come to an intersection where both straight ahead and right are permitted. What follows from the sign?
- AI must continue to the right through the entire intersection.
- BI must continue straight ahead through the entire intersection.
- CI must continue to the left through the entire intersection.
- DI may choose between the permitted directions of travel at the intersection.
Theory test tip
Look carefully at whether the arrow points diagonally down towards a passing side or indicates a direction of travel. The common trap is to answer that you must turn left, even though the sign only requires you to pass on the left side.
Did you know
The sign is often used on traffic islands, at fixed obstructions and in connection with roadworks to guide traffic safely past on the left.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to turn left when I see this sign?
No. You must pass the sign on the left side, but you can follow the road's continuing direction after passing it.
Can I pass on the right if it is clear?
No. The sign requires you to pass on the side indicated by the arrow, regardless of whether the other side appears clear.
Where is this sign usually placed?
It is often placed on a traffic island, in front of a physical obstruction or at a temporary barrier. Its position indicates where traffic should be guided past.
What is the difference between this and a compulsory direction of travel to the left sign?
A compulsory direction of travel to the left sign determines which direction you must drive. This sign only requires you to pass the sign itself on the left side.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
