Passenger Ferry
The sign indicates the direction to the passenger ferry
When You See This Sign
When you see G12 it shows the direction to the passenger ferry boarding point — follow the arrow if you want to go to the ferry. Reduce speed and prepare to change lanes or turn in good time; also follow any additional plates and instructions from staff at the terminal.
Rules & Regulations
- G12 is a directional sign indicating the way to a passenger ferry and is informational — it does not impose a duty to give way, a speed limit, or other mandatory rules.
- Follow the arrow's direction if you intend to reach the ferry boarding point; the sign normally points toward the road or exit that leads to the terminal.
- The sign may be supplemented with additional plates that indicate distance, the ferry's name, or specific instructions; those supplementary plates should be observed.
- When you reach the ferry boarding point, local rules apply for queuing, boarding and disembarking, as well as instructions from ferry staff or terminal signage.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce your speed and move into the correct lane in good time if you plan to take the ferry — many queuing areas are narrow and have crossing pedestrian traffic.
- Keep a close lookout for pedestrians and cyclists near the ferry boarding point; passenger ferries often involve many unprotected road users.
- Read the additional plates at the sign for information about distance, timetable, or ticketing rules so you don't arrive unprepared.
- If you are not going to the ferry, continue calmly and avoid unnecessary lane changes or braking that could disrupt queues heading for the ferry access.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that G12 is a prescriptive sign that imposes a duty to give way or other traffic rules — it is a directional sign.
- Assuming that 'passenger ferry' always means motor vehicles can be carried; many passenger ferries are for pedestrians and cyclists only.
- Ignoring supplementary plates that indicate distance or special restrictions to the ferry boarding point.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Passenger Ferry
What should you understand from this sign?
- A Indicates direction to a passenger ferry intended for pedestrians and cyclists
- B Indicates a disembarkation point for public transport
- C Indicates direction to a car ferry for vehicles
- D Indicates the nearest petrol station
Exam Tip
In theory test questions the difference between informational signs and prescriptive signs is often tested — remember that G12 only shows the direction to a passenger ferry and does not give priority or a speed limit.
Did You Know?
G12 is frequently found in coastal areas and archipelagos where short passenger ferry routes connect islands and the mainland. Some passenger ferries in Sweden are operated by local shipping companies or municipalities and are used daily by commuters and schoolchildren.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does G12 mean I must turn off by law?
No, G12 is a directional sign and only indicates the direction to a passenger ferry. You only turn off if you intend to take the ferry or if local traffic rules require it.
Does a passenger ferry always carry cars and motor vehicles?
Not necessarily. 'Passenger ferry' usually refers to crossings for pedestrians and cyclists; some routes allow bicycles but not motor vehicles. Check the signage or the ferry's information.
Does the sign say anything about the distance to the ferry?
G12 itself only shows the direction, but there may be additional plates indicating distance or timetable. Read those supplements for practical information on how far it is.
Does G12 affect my duty to give way or speed when I approach?
No, G12 does not change right-of-way or speed limits — those are indicated by other traffic signs or road markings. At the ferry boarding point you should still adjust your speed and follow local signage and the instructions of staff.
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