Motorway
The sign indicates that you are driving on a motorway where specific rules apply.
When You See This Sign
When you see the E1 'Motorway' sign it means you are now on a motorway and subject to the motorway's special rules. Adjust your speed to any posted limits and the traffic flow, keep to the right if you are not overtaking. Use the on-ramp to accelerate and smoothly merge into traffic, and use the off-ramp when you intend to leave the motorway.
Rules & Regulations
- Motorway (E1) is intended for motor vehicles and prohibits pedestrians, bicycles, class II mopeds, tractors, and motorized equipment.
- Entrances and exits must be via designated on-ramps and off-ramps; at-grade intersections and left turns across lanes do not occur.
- Stopping and parking on the carriageway or hard shoulder is prohibited; only emergency stops on a designated hard shoulder/edge lane are allowed.
- Keep to the right unless overtaking and use your indicator when changing lanes; adjust your driving on entry and exit so that merging is done safely.
Tips for Drivers
- When you see the motorway sign, check your rearview mirror and adjust your speed to smoothly merge into the traffic flow via the acceleration lane.
- Stay in the right-hand lane if you are not actively overtaking — many drivers rely on the left lane being kept clear for passing.
- Use the exit lane well in advance of your exit and signal early to avoid sudden lane changes.
- Never stop on the carriageway or hard shoulder to rest; plan for rest areas or service stations as needed.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the sign automatically implies a specific speed limit — the motorway sign does not indicate a speed limit by itself.
- Thinking that bicycles and mopeds are allowed on the motorway.
- Attempting to turn or make a U-turn without leaving via a designated exit.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Motorway
Which rule applies at this sign?
- A You are driving on a motorway where special rules apply, e.g. prohibition of pedestrians and bicycles.
- B Motor traffic prohibited — only pedestrian and bicycle traffic allowed.
- C Only motor vehicles with permission are allowed to drive here.
- D You are approaching the end of the motorway.
Exam Tip
In driving theory tests you will often be asked which vehicles are prohibited on motorways and whether the sign indicates a speed limit. Learn the specific list (pedestrians, bicycles, class II mopeds, tractors, motorized equipment) and that speed limits are always shown with separate signs.
Did You Know?
The E1 motorway sign follows the European symbol standard and is used in Sweden to mark roads without at-grade intersections. In Sweden motorways are mainly found around larger cities and between important towns, and motorway speed limits vary and are shown on separate speed limit signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the motorway sign mean the speed limit increases automatically?
No, the motorway sign itself does not indicate a speed limit. The speed applies according to the posted limit at the location or according to the general speed regulations if no specific limit is posted.
Are class II mopeds or bicycles allowed on the motorway?
No, class II mopeds and bicycles are prohibited on motorways. These vehicles must use other roads where they are permitted.
How do I get on or off a motorway?
Entrances and exits are via special on-ramps and off-ramps; you must not enter or exit at the level of the carriageway. Use the acceleration lane to adjust your speed and signal before merging.
May I stop or park on the motorway if I am tired?
No, stopping and parking on the carriageway or hard shoulder is prohibited except in emergencies. Instead, plan for rest areas or service facilities along the motorway.
Practice more in the app
Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.