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. On skilt 404.1, the arrow points down to the right, so you must drive on the right side of the sign or the obstruction it marks.
Rules
- Skilt 404.1 requires you to pass on the right side of the sign.
- The requirement applies at the sign itself and determines which side of a traffic island, central reservation or other obstruction you must use.
- The sign does not require you to turn right at an intersection; it only indicates which side you must pass on.
- You must comply with the requirement even if the other side appears passable, unless the police, traffic lights or other lawful traffic regulation directs otherwise.
Tips
- Look at where the arrowhead points and position the vehicle on the indicated side in good time.
- Reduce your speed if the sign is located by a narrow traffic island or a roadworks area.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot before changing position to pass on the correct side.
- Look out for cyclists, pedestrians and kerbs around the traffic island as you pass.
Common misconceptions
- Thinking that the sign means you must turn right at the next intersection.
- Interpreting the arrow as a recommendation rather than a requirement.
- Passing on the left because that side looks wider or easier to drive through.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign mean?
- AYou must drive straight ahead after the sign.
- BYou must pass the sign on its right side.
- CYou may pass the sign on either side.
- DYou must turn right at the next intersection.
Medium
The sign is placed on a traffic island, and there is more space on the left side than on the right side. What do you do?
- AI pass on the left because there is more space.
- BI stop in front of the traffic island and wait for others.
- CI choose the side with the least traffic.
- DI pass on the right even though it is narrower.
Hard
A police officer directs you to pass on the left, even though the sign's arrow points right. What do you do?
- AI follow the sign's instruction and pass on the right.
- BI choose whichever side seems safest.
- CI stop and wait until the police officer walks away.
- DI follow the police officer's instruction and pass on the left.
Theory test tip
A common trap is confusing the angled arrow with a requirement to turn right. Remember that the arrow on this sign shows which side of the sign you must pass on, not which direction you must choose at an intersection.
Did you know
The sign is often used on traffic islands, by central reservations and in connection with roadworks. The angled arrow distinguishes it from signs requiring a particular direction of travel, which regulate the direction in which you must continue or turn.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to turn right when I see the sign?
No. You must pass on the right side of the sign, but you may then follow the road in any direction that is otherwise permitted.
Can I pass on the left if there is no oncoming traffic?
No. The sign requires you to pass on the right, regardless of whether the left side appears clear.
Where is the sign usually located?
It is often placed on a traffic island, by a central reservation or in front of a temporary obstruction. Its purpose is to guide traffic safely past on the correct side.
How does it differ from the sign requiring you to drive to the right?
A sign requiring you to drive to the right determines the direction in which you must continue driving. This sign only determines that you must pass the sign itself on the right.
Practise for the theory test
Teorio has the complete theory syllabus in your own language. Download the app and practise whenever it suits you.
