Pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle

Pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle

Signals by Police Officer and Others Sign code: P11

The sign indicates that you should pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle

When You See This Sign

When you receive the signal you should calmly reduce speed, turn on your indicators and drive to the roadside so that you stop in front of the police vehicle. If it would be dangerous to stop right there, continue to the nearest safe place and inform the police of the reason.

Rules & Regulations

  • The police signal is mandatory — you must pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle when the signal is shown.
  • Carry out the maneuver safely: reduce speed in good time, use your indicators, and drive in a straight, controlled movement to the roadside.
  • If it is impossible or dangerous to stop exactly where the police signal, continue to the nearest safe place and, if possible, inform the police of the situation.
  • Failure to follow the police's instructions may result in fines or other legal consequences.

Tips for Drivers

  • Brake gently and signal in good time so other road users understand you will stop at the roadside.
  • Pull in as far to the right as possible without entering a cycle lane or pavement — leave enough space for the police car to stand in front of your vehicle.
  • If you are unsure or road conditions make it dangerous to stop immediately, continue to the nearest safe place and inform the police by signaling or calling if necessary.
  • Keep your driving licence, registration document and insurance papers readily accessible if the police ask for them.

Common Mistakes

  • !Believing the signal is a recommendation rather than an order — many learners underestimate that it is mandatory to obey the police signal.
  • !Stopping behind the police car or on the wrong side of the road instead of in front of the police vehicle, which can complicate the check.
  • !Braking hard or making sudden steering movements in panic instead of braking in a controlled manner and signaling in advance.

Test Yourself

Road Sign: Pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle

Pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle

What should you do when you see this sign that instructs you to pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle?

  • A Pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle as instructed.
  • B Follow the police vehicle and stop behind it.
  • C Continue as usual because the sign only applies to cyclists.
  • D Stop in the middle of the lane and wait for further orders.

Exam Tip

In the theory test they may ask what you should do if it is dangerous to stop immediately — the correct answer is to obey the police order but perform the maneuver safely and, in an emergency, continue to the nearest safe place.

Did You Know?

This signal is used by police hand and vehicle signals during checks and operations; it differs from fixed road signs because it is a direct order from an officer or a police vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the signal apply to all vehicles?

Yes, the signal applies to all road users to whom the signal is directed. Exceptions can only be made if it is impossible or dangerous to stop immediately; in that case you should do so safely and notify the police.

Do I have to stop in the middle of an intersection if the police show the signal then?

No, you should not stop in an intersection if it creates danger. In that case, drive on to the nearest safe place and stop there, and explain the situation to the police.

Can I drive past the police car if I do not want to be checked?

No. Failing to follow the police signal can be a criminal offense. Pull over to the roadside and stop in front of the police vehicle or, if it is dangerous, to the nearest safe place and inform the police.

Where should I position my car in relation to the police vehicle?

Stop in front of the police vehicle as indicated by the signal, and position yourself as far to the right as possible without blocking a cycle lane or pedestrian walkway. Follow the police's further instructions on the spot.

Practice more in the app

Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.

Web AppGoogle Play