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Diagram advance direction sign
When you see the sign
Read the sign early and identify which branch in the schematic junction leads to your destination. Move into the appropriate position in good time, but follow lane markings and any later signs if the sign does not specify a particular lane.
Rules
- Sign 703 shows schematically how the roads pass through or branch off from an upcoming junction, and which direction leads to the destinations shown.
- The diagram is a simplified representation and does not necessarily show correct distances, angles or scale.
- The sign provides guidance on route choices, but in itself does not require you to use a specific lane.
- Any road numbers, symbols and destinations shown on the sign are information you should use to choose the correct route.
- The sign does not change right-of-way or priority; these are determined by priority signs, traffic lights, road markings and traffic regulations.
Tips
- First find your destination or road number, then follow the line backwards through the diagram to the road you are approaching from.
- Reduce the amount of information you need to process by deciding on your route before you enter the junction itself.
- Look for lane arrows and lane orientation signs after the diagramorienteringstavle if the road has multiple lanes.
- Be aware that a side branch shown in the diagram may come after several hundred metres and not necessarily at the first possible exit.
Common misconceptions
- Many people assume that each branch in the diagram corresponds to a specific lane. The sign primarily shows the road system and directions, not necessarily how traffic is distributed between lanes.
- Some interpret the angles and lengths of the lines as an accurate drawing of the junction. The diagram is only schematic.
- The sign is sometimes confused with a tabellorienteringstavle, which presents the directions in table form without drawing the layout of the junction.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign tell you?
- AIt shows schematically the course of the road and the directions toward the stated destinations.
- BIt shows an exit and the distance to the exit location.
- CIt shows which destinations each individual lane is intended for.
- DIt shows the directions in table form without drawing the course of the road.
Medium
You are approaching an intersection and see that your destination is along the branch to the right. How should you drive?
- AEnter the intersection first because the direction shown gives you right of way.
- BFollow the exact angle of the branch because the diagram shows the actual layout of the intersection.
- CChoose the road to the right and follow lane markings, signals and other signs.
- DMove into the right-hand lane immediately because each branch always corresponds to one lane.
Hard
The diagram’s three branches are drawn approximately above their respective traffic lanes. Which conclusion is correct?
- AThe positioning always shows the lane arrangement; each branch applies to the lane directly below.
- BThe positioning does not necessarily show the lane arrangement; separate lane-direction signs are used for this.
- CThe positioning determines the vikeplikt (duty to give way); the lane below the main branch always has forkjørsrett (priority right of way).
- DThe positioning requires the lane arrangement; changing lanes after the sign is therefore not permitted.
Theory test tip
In the theory test, you may be asked whether the sign shows lanes or the road system itself. Sign 703 shows a schematic road layout; signs 707 and 709 are used when the information concerns which directions or destinations the individual lanes are intended for.
Did you know
Diagramorienteringstavler are used particularly where a junction or exit system is easier to understand as a drawing than as a list. The schematic format makes it possible to show side roads, branches and roundabout-like road layouts before the driver reaches them.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to follow the direction shown on the sign?
You must choose the direction shown if you are travelling to the stated destination. However, the sign is an orientation sign and normally does not, by itself, require you to travel in a particular direction.
Does the sign show which lane I should be in?
Not necessarily. A diagramorienteringstavle shows the schematic layout of the roads, while a kjørefeltorienteringstavle and a portalorienteringstavle link directions or destinations to specific lanes.
Is the junction laid out exactly as shown in the diagram?
No, the drawing is simplified and not to scale. Use it to understand the order and direction of the road branches, and follow the actual road markings as you approach the junction.
What is the difference between a diagramorienteringstavle and an avkjøringstavle?
A diagramorienteringstavle provides advance warning and shows the upcoming road system schematically. An avkjøringstavle is positioned in connection with the exit itself and indicates where you should leave the road.
Practise for the theory test
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