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Arrows
Arrows placed in a lane before an intersection indicate that the lane shall be used by road users who intend to drive in the direction or one of the directions shown by the arrow. If the lane is bounded by a solid line, the arrow indicates the mandatory direction of travel. Arrows at an angle in the lane indicate that the lane in question ends, and that further driving shall take place in accordance with the provisions of trafikkreglene.
When you see the sign
Position yourself in the lane with the arrow showing the direction you intend to take through the junction. If the arrow points diagonally towards another lane, prepare for a safe lane change because your lane is ending.
Rules
- An arrow before a junction indicates that the lane is to be used by road users who intend to travel in the direction or directions shown by the arrow.
- When the lane is bounded by a solid line, the direction shown by the arrow is mandatory.
- You must not drive on or cross a solid line to change to another lane.
- A diagonal arrow in the lane means that the lane is ending; continuing and changing lanes must be done in accordance with the traffic regulations.
Tips
- Look for the arrows early and choose the correct lane before reaching the solid lines at the junction.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot, and use your turn signal before changing lanes after a diagonal arrow.
- In a queue, follow the arrow in your own lane and do not force your way across late into a lane for a different direction.
- Look at both the arrow and the line around the lane; a solid line means that you cannot correct a wrong lane choice by crossing the line.
Common misconceptions
- Believing that a diagonal arrow gives you priority when moving into the adjacent lane. You still have a duty to yield when changing lanes.
- Believing that you can follow a direction other than the one shown by the arrow when traffic is light. The lane must be used in accordance with the direction or directions shown by the arrow.
- Ignoring the solid line and changing lanes just before the junction. The solid line must not be crossed.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this road marking indicate when it is placed in a lane before an intersection?
- AThe lane is reserved for overtaking.
- BThe lane must be used in the direction shown by the arrow.
- CThe lane may be used in all directions of travel.
- DThe lane has priority throughout the entire intersection.
Medium
You are in this lane before an intersection, and the lane is bounded by a solid line. You want to turn left. What do you do?
- AI turn left if the intersection is clear.
- BI cross the solid line and change to the left lane.
- CI stop in the lane and wait until the way is clear.
- DI drive straight ahead in the direction shown by the arrow.
Hard
What does this version indicate, in contrast to a diagonal arrow in the lane?
- AThat the lane ends and you must change to the adjacent lane.
- BThat changing lanes is dangerous because of poor visibility.
- CThat the lane is separated from the adjacent lane by a solid line.
- DThat the lane before the intersection is intended for driving straight ahead.
Theory test tip
A common trap is the difference between a straight arrow before a junction and a diagonal arrow: The arrow before the junction shows which direction the lane is to be used for, while a diagonal arrow warns that the lane is ending. Also remember that the arrow indicates a mandatory direction of travel when the lane is bounded by a solid line.
Did you know
Arrows are road markings with their own sign number in the regulations governing traffic signs. They are often used together with lane lines, warning lines and solid lines, so their meaning must be assessed together with the line delimiting the lane.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change lanes after seeing an arrow indicating the wrong direction?
Yes, provided that the line may be crossed and the lane change can be carried out without danger or unnecessary obstruction. You cannot cross a solid line.
Do I have priority when a diagonal arrow shows that my lane is ending?
No. When changing lanes, you must yield to traffic in the lane you want to enter.
What does an arrow showing several directions mean?
The lane may be used for each of the directions shown by the arrow. You must still comply with any traffic signals and other signs at the junction.
What should I do if I have chosen the wrong lane and can no longer change lanes?
Follow the direction shown by the arrow through the junction instead of crossing a solid line or making a sudden manoeuvre. Then find a legal and safe place to change your route.
Practise for the theory test
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