Stop
The sign indicates stop
When You See This Sign
When you see the stop sign you must make a full stop at the stop line or, if there is no line, before the pedestrian crossing or the intersection. Then you must give priority to all other road users and only continue when it is completely safe.
Rules & Regulations
- You must come to a complete stop (full stop) at the stop sign before you continue driving.
- Stop at the stop line if one exists; if not, stop before the pedestrian crossing, or otherwise as close to the intersection as needed to see both directions.
- Give priority to all other road users (vehicles and pedestrians) who are already in or approaching the intersection before you proceed.
- Traffic signals or instructions from a police officer take precedence over the sign; always follow traffic lights or police if they control the intersection.
Tips for Drivers
- Brake in good time and make a proper stop — do not creep forward with the engine running without having stopped completely.
- Position the car so you are not standing on the pedestrian crossing or too far into the intersection; in front of the stop line or just before the pedestrian crossing is the correct position.
- After stopping, scan carefully in both directions and also check cycle lanes and pedestrians before you drive off.
- If you have difficulty starting on a hill, keep your foot on the brake or use the handbrake to avoid rolling backwards before you set off.
Common Mistakes
- Treating the stop sign like a yield sign and only slowing down instead of stopping completely.
- Stopping too far forward so that the car is on the pedestrian crossing or inside the intersection.
- Creeping forward without clear visibility or without giving priority to pedestrians and cyclists.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Stop
What applies when you see this sign?
- A You must come to a complete stop at the stop line or, if no line exists, before the intersection and yield right of way.
- B You should slow down and continue driving if the road is clear.
- C You must give way but do not need to stop if no other traffic is visible.
- D Only vehicles with a special permit must stop here.
Exam Tip
On the theory test they may ask exactly where you must stop if there is no stop line — answer that you must stop before the pedestrian crossing or, if none, as close to the intersection as needed to see traffic in both directions.
Did You Know?
The stop sign in Sweden is designated code V1 and is an octagonal red sign with the word "STOP" — the shape makes it recognizable even in poor visibility. The sign is used where the risk of collision is greater than what an ordinary yield sign handles, for example at junctions with poor sightlines or high speeds on the crossing road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exactly where should I stop if there is no stop line?
Stop before the pedestrian crossing if one exists; if not, stop as close to the intersection as needed to get a clear view in both directions. The aim is to avoid entering the intersection before you know it is safe.
Does the stop sign apply to cyclists and moped riders as well?
Yes, the duty to stop applies to all road users regardless of vehicle type. A cyclist or moped rider must also stop completely and give priority before continuing.
Can I drive on if the road looks clear without stopping completely?
No. You must perform a full stop even if the road appears clear. Not stopping may be seen as a breach of the stop rule and is dangerous in situations with limited visibility.
What if there are traffic signals at the junction?
Traffic signals take precedence over road signs, so if the junction is controlled by traffic lights you must follow the light signals. Also obey instructions from a police officer if present.
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