Bicycle Lane Line
The sign indicates a bicycle lane line
When You See This Sign
When you see a cycle lane marking you should be especially attentive to cyclists and not drive or stop in the marked area. If you must cross the line to turn or enter somewhere, signal well in advance, slow down and yield to cyclists before performing the maneuver.
Rules & Regulations
- M5 (cycle lane line) marks a cycle lane on the carriageway and indicates where cyclists should ride.
- Motor vehicles must not drive or stop in the cycle lane, except when it is necessary to turn, enter a property, or in other exceptional cases. In such situations the driver must yield to cyclists.
- The sign's effect applies along the entire marked section as long as the line is painted on the road; crossing from or into the cycle lane should only be done when it can be done without hindering or endangering cyclists.
- Parking and standing are prohibited in the cycle lane unless a specific instruction indicates it is allowed. Exceptions may include emergencies or vehicles that must stop due to traffic conditions.
Tips for Drivers
- Slow down and check your mirrors and blind spot before you cross a cycle lane to turn or enter a street or driveway.
- Signal well in advance before you cross a cycle lane so cyclists understand your intentions and can adjust their speed.
- Avoid driving in the cycle lane to pass queues or obstacles; plan overtaking earlier and keep clear of the cycle lane.
- When parking near a cycle lane, leave enough space and check carefully that doors will not open into cyclist traffic.
Common Mistakes
- Believing it is allowed to drive in the cycle lane briefly just to pass slow vehicles — this is forbidden unless necessary and only if you yield to cyclists.
- Confusing a cycle lane (a painted line on the carriageway) with a cycle track (a separated path or a lane indicated by mandatory signs) and assuming cyclists are required to use them in the same way.
- Forgetting to yield to cyclists when crossing a cycle lane to turn — many fail to check for cyclists approaching from behind.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Bicycle Lane Line
What does this marking mean for traffic?
- A It indicates a bike lane marking that designates a bicycle lane.
- B It indicates a bus lane where only buses may drive.
- C It marks an edge line for parking.
- D It shows a solid center line that must not be crossed.
Exam Tip
In the theory test you may be asked who has priority when you turn across a cycle lane — the correct answer is that you must always yield to cyclists in the cycle lane. Also be prepared to recognize the difference between a cycle lane (painted line) and a cycle track (mandatory sign).
Did You Know?
The cycle lane marking is often used in built-up areas to create a clear boundary between motor vehicle and bicycle traffic; it is one of the most common surface markings for bicycle traffic in Swedish cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
May I drive in the cycle lane to get past a queue?
No, you may not drive in the cycle lane to pass queues unless it is necessary. If you must cross the cycle lane to turn or enter a property, you must yield to cyclists.
May I park in a cycle lane?
Parking and stopping in a cycle lane is prohibited unless a specific instruction permits it. Blocking the cycle lane is dangerous for cyclists and can result in fines.
Are cyclists required to use the cycle lane?
Cycle lanes are intended for cyclists, but they differ from a mandatory cycle track that is governed by specific signage. Cyclists' obligations may vary in practice, so as a motorist you should always assume cyclists may be in or beside the lane.
What should I do when I want to turn right and there is a cycle lane between me and the sidewalk?
Signal well in advance, slow down and check mirrors and the blind spot. Yield to cyclists in the cycle lane and only cross it when it is clear and safe.
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