Stop
The sign indicates that you must stop
When You See This Sign
When you see the Stop sign (P3) you must immediately stop in a safe place, preferably behind the stop line or before the pedestrian crossing. Remain stopped until you receive clear permission to continue or until it is safe to proceed without obstructing anyone.
Rules & Regulations
- When you see the Stop sign (P3) you must come to a complete stop; it is a mandatory sign that must not be ignored.
- Stop at the stop line or, if none exists, before the pedestrian crossing or intersection so that you do not obstruct pedestrians or other traffic.
- A signal from the police or another authorized traffic controller takes precedence over other traffic signals and signs — therefore you must stop even if the traffic light is green.
- Remain stopped until you receive a clear indication to proceed from the person who showed the Stop sign, or until the situation is safe and the law/signs permit you to continue.
Tips for Drivers
- Reduce your speed well in advance when you see a police officer with a stop sign or a temporary stop sign so that you can stop in a controlled manner without alarming pedestrians.
- Aim to stop so that your entire vehicle fits behind the stop line and does not block a pedestrian crossing or cycle lane.
- Keep your hands visible and be prepared to show identification if the police request it during checks or roadblocks.
- Note whether the stop is temporary (e.g., a cordon, inspection) and carefully follow the instructions given before you drive on.
Common Mistakes
- Performing a 'rolling stop' where the vehicle does not come to a complete halt — the sign requires a full stop.
- Believing that a green light or other road signage takes priority when the police show a Stop sign; the police signal takes precedence.
- Stopping on a pedestrian crossing or stop line so that pedestrians or cyclists are obstructed.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Stop
What should you do after stopping at this sign before you continue?
- A Come to a complete stop, check traffic from both directions, and only proceed when it is clear.
- B Slow down and edge out without coming to a full stop if it seems quiet.
- C You do not need to stop if you have priority at the intersection.
- D Skip stopping if it is night and no other traffic is visible.
Exam Tip
Be prepared for exam questions that test whether a police Stop sign takes precedence over traffic lights or other road signs — the correct answer is that a Stop from the police must always be obeyed. You may also be asked where exactly you should stop (stop line, pedestrian crossing, or before an intersection).
Did You Know?
The octagonal shape and red color make Stop signs and stop paddles easy to recognize internationally. In Sweden both fixed road signs and the police's hand-held paddles use the text "STOP", and the police's sign is often used during checks, accident scenes and roadblocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Stop sign apply if the traffic light shows green?
Yes. A Stop sign from the police or traffic controller takes precedence over traffic lights and other road signs, and you must stop even if the light is green.
Exactly where should I stop when I receive a Stop signal?
Stop at the stop line if there is one. If there is no stop line, stop before the pedestrian crossing or before the intersection so that you do not block pedestrians or crossing traffic.
What happens if I do not stop for the Stop sign?
Failing to comply with a Stop sign is a traffic offence that can lead to fines, loss of driving licence or other legal consequences depending on the circumstances. The police may also intervene immediately if you refuse to stop.
Does the Stop sign apply to all vehicle types?
Yes. The sign applies to all road users on the road, including passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles and moped-classified vehicles. Exceptions can only be given by the person issuing the signal.
Practice more in the app
Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.