Designated Lane
The signs indicate that vehicles may only proceed past the sign in the direction indicated by the arrow, or, where two arrows are present, in the directions indicated by the arrows.
When You See This Sign
When you see the mandatory lane sign you should position your vehicle in good time so that you pass the obstacle on the side the arrow indicates. Reduce speed, check mirrors and blind spots, and signal if you change lanes. Follow the instruction until another sign or road marking changes the conditions.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign indicates that vehicles must pass the sign on the side the arrow points to; you are required to follow the arrow's instruction.
- If the sign shows two arrows, it means passing is permitted on the sides indicated by the arrows (you must choose one of the shown sides).
- The directive applies to all vehicles unless otherwise indicated by an additional plate or special instruction.
- The directive applies until another road sign, an additional plate, road marking or the next intersection indicates otherwise.
Tips for Drivers
- Begin any preparatory lane changes in good time so you can pass on the correct side without sudden maneuvers; use your indicator when changing lanes.
- Reduce speed and check mirrors and blind spots before passing—small vehicles and cyclists may be close to the obstacle.
- If the sign shows two arrows, choose the side that is safest and legal based on road width and traffic flow; do not cross center lines or protective barriers.
- Always also follow applicable road markings (e.g. a solid line) because they may restrict how you are allowed to perform the passing maneuver.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that the sign is merely a recommendation and not mandatory.
- Misunderstanding the two-arrow sign and thinking it allows passing anywhere; it restricts you to the indicated sides.
- Assuming that the sign does not apply to bicycles or mopeds—the directive covers all vehicles unless an exception is specified.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Designated Lane
How should you act when you see this sign?
- A Pass the sign only on the side indicated by the arrow.
- B You may pass the sign on either side.
- C The sign shows where parking is allowed.
- D The sign opens a bicycle lane that you must keep clear.
Exam Tip
Pay attention to whether the sign shows one or two arrows: one arrow means you must pass on that side, two arrows mean passing is allowed on the shown sides — examiners often test the difference between 'must' and 'may'.
Did You Know?
The mandatory sign is part of the international standard for compulsory road signs (blue circle) and is often used at median refuges, traffic islands, road work zones and narrow passages to control how traffic passes an obstacle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply to all vehicles, including bicycles?
Yes, the directive applies to all vehicles unless an additional plate explicitly exempts a vehicle category. Bicycles and mopeds must therefore also follow the instruction.
What does the sign mean when it has two arrows?
Two arrows indicate that passing is permitted on the sides the arrows point to, for example both sides of a traffic island. You still must pass on one of the specified sides and not at another location.
When does the directive cease to apply?
The directive applies until another road sign, an additional plate, road marking or the next intersection indicates otherwise. In practice it often ends once the obstacle has been passed.
Can I change lanes to follow the sign if there is a solid line?
No, road markings such as a solid line may prohibit lane changes and must be respected. You must obey both road signs and road markings at the same time.
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