Designated Pedestrian Path
The sign indicates a path intended solely for pedestrians.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign, as a driver you must not drive onto or park on the footpath. Be especially attentive at exits and intersections and give priority to pedestrians already on the footpath; cyclists must walk their bicycle if they wish to use it.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign indicates a footpath intended exclusively for pedestrians — only pedestrians are allowed to be on and move along the footpath.
- Cyclists are not allowed to cycle on a mandatory footpath; cyclists must dismount and walk their bicycle if they are to use the footpath.
- Mopeds, motor vehicles, horses, and other vehicles are prohibited from driving on the footpath.
- When you as a driver are crossing or turning across a footpath you must give priority to pedestrians who are already on the footpath and avoid driving onto it.
Tips for Drivers
- Slow down and be alert when approaching a mandatory footpath — pedestrians may appear from behind obstacles.
- Never park on or near a footpath; do not block the crossing for pedestrians or wheelchair users.
- When turning across a footpath, stop if necessary and let pedestrians pass before completing the maneuver.
- If you are a cyclist and must use the footpath, dismount and walk your bicycle to comply with the rules.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing the mandatory footpath (D5) with a combined pedestrian and cycle path (D7) — many mistakenly believe cyclists are allowed to ride there.
- Assuming the sign is only a recommendation; it is mandatory and restricts the path to pedestrians.
- Believing that mopeds are always allowed to use the footpath — as a rule motorized vehicles are not permitted there.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Designated Pedestrian Path
Which rule applies at this sign?
- A The lane is intended for pedestrians only; other types of traffic may not use it.
- B The sign indicates an intersection where pedestrians must give way.
- C The sign shows that bicycles have priority over pedestrians.
- D The sign prohibits horseback riding on the lane.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked about the difference between D5 (mandatory footpath) and D7 (combined pedestrian and cycle path). A common trick question concerns whether cyclists are allowed to ride: the correct answer for D5 is that cycling is not permitted — the bicycle must be walked.
Did You Know?
The sign's blue circle with a white walking figure is often used at schools, residential areas, and parks to create safe routes for pedestrians; it is visually distinct from combined pedestrian and cycle signs that display both symbols.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cyclists allowed to use a mandatory footpath?
No, cyclists are not allowed to cycle on a mandatory footpath. If a cyclist must pass there they should dismount and walk their bicycle.
Can I cross the footpath with my car?
You may cross the footpath but you must not drive on or park on it. When you cross or turn across the footpath you must give priority to pedestrians who are already on the footpath.
Are mopeds allowed to use the footpath?
Generally no motor vehicles, including mopeds, are allowed to use a mandatory footpath. Mopeds should primarily use the roadway or a dedicated cycle lane if one exists.
How do I distinguish this sign from a combined pedestrian and cycle path?
A mandatory footpath shows a single pedestrian symbol on a blue circle. A combined pedestrian and cycle path shows both pedestrian and bicycle symbols (often divided or side by side) — it allows both pedestrians and cyclists according to the signage.
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