Guiding Line
The sign indicates a guiding line
When You See This Sign
When you see the guide line, use it to maintain the correct position in the lane and adjust your speed to the road's curves and visibility conditions. Avoid crossing a solid guide line; if the line is broken you may only change direction or drive over it if it is permitted and safe.
Rules & Regulations
- The guide line marks the direction of the carriageway and helps you maintain the correct driving position, especially in curves and in poor visibility.
- A solid guide line should normally not be crossed; if the line is broken, overtaking or changing driving direction may be permitted when it is safe.
- Always follow the guide line in conjunction with other road signs and markings — the guide line complements, but does not replace, signage indicating prohibitions or right-of-way rules.
- Adjust speed and position according to the design of the guide line (e.g. in tight curves) and show extra consideration when meeting heavy traffic or on narrow road sections.
Tips for Drivers
- Use the guide line as a reference for lateral positioning in darkness or fog, but check the whole traffic situation — also watch oncoming traffic and the road edges.
- Reduce speed before curves where a guide line is present; the line often shows where the road turns and can be especially important on narrow country roads.
- Be especially careful when planning to cross a broken guide line to overtake — check visibility, the speed of oncoming vehicles, and safety margins before you begin the maneuver.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking that the guide line is always the same as the edge line — many confuse them and position themselves incorrectly in the lane.
- Assuming it is always forbidden to cross the guide line; a broken guide line may allow changing direction of travel if it is safe and permitted.
- Ignoring the guide line in poor road conditions (rain, snow, ice) and relying only on the road centre — this reduces orientation.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Guiding Line
What should you consider when you see this marking?
- A It is a guidance line intended to lead road users, follow its direction.
- B It marks a parking space where short-term parking is allowed.
- C It is a stopping point where you must come to a complete stop.
- D It shows the boundary of a bicycle crossing where vehicles are not allowed to drive.
Exam Tip
On the exam you may get a question that distinguishes between solid and broken guide lines: remember that a solid line is normally not to be crossed while a broken line may allow overtaking — always check visibility and safety before you act.
Did You Know?
Guide lines are common on narrow country roads, in curves and in tunnels where they help drivers judge the direction of the carriageway in darkness or poor visibility. In Sweden permanent guide lines are usually white, while temporary markings at roadworks are often yellow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I allowed to drive over a guide line to turn into a driveway?
If the guide line is solid you should normally not drive over it. With a broken guide line you can turn if it is safe and not prohibited by other traffic rules or signs.
How does a guide line differ from an edge line?
The guide line guides the vehicle's position and shows the driving direction, while the edge line marks the outer boundary of the carriageway. They have different functions and placements on the road.
Are guide lines always white?
Permanent guide lines are normally white in Sweden. For temporary changes, for example roadworks, yellow markings are often used instead.
Where do I most often see guide lines?
Guide lines are common on country roads, in curves and in tunnels as well as in places with limited visibility where they help drivers follow the direction of the carriageway.
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