Swiss information signs: meanings and road rules

Marks the start of a motorway, reserved for motor vehicles capable of and permitted to reach at least 80 km/h. The general speed limit is 120 km/h; lower signed limits and limits for particular vehicles still apply.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Autoroute · IT: Autostrada

Where you will see it: At every motorway entrance and as a reminder after major junctions.

Common theory-test mistake: Motorway rules apply from this sign: no U-turns, reversing or voluntary stopping on the carriageway. Check the vignette requirement for the route and vehicle; the sign alone does not mean that every motorway section requires a vignette.

Do not confuse with: 4.03 Expressway, 4.02 End of motorway

Ends the special motorway rules; the general traffic rules apply again from this point.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Fin de l’autoroute · IT: Fine dell’autostrada

Where you will see it: At the end of the motorway, usually already on the exit slip road.

Common theory-test mistake: A common theory-test trap: the 120 km/h motorway limit no longer applies. Outside built-up areas, the general limit is 80 km/h unless another applicable limit is signed.

Do not confuse with: 4.04 End of expressway

Marks the start of an expressway (Autostrasse), which, like a motorway, is reserved for motor vehicles. The general speed limit is 100 km/h; lower signed limits and limits for particular vehicles still apply.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Semi-autoroute · IT: Semiautostrada

Where you will see it: At the beginning of the expressway and at its entrances.

Common theory-test mistake: Do not confuse an expressway with a motorway: the general limit is 100 km/h rather than 120 km/h. Be prepared for oncoming traffic, as the carriageways are often not separated.

Do not confuse with: 4.01 Motorway, 4.04 End of expressway

Ends the special expressway rules; the general traffic rules apply again.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Fin de la semiautoroute · IT: Fine della semiautostrada

Where you will see it: At the end of an expressway or on its exits.

Do not confuse with: 4.02 End of motorway

Marks a mountain postal road. When passing oncoming vehicles or overtaking is difficult, you must follow the signals and instructions of drivers of scheduled public transport vehicles, such as PostBus.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Route postale de montagne · IT: Strada postale di montagna

Where you will see it: At the start of narrow mountain roads used by scheduled public buses.

Common theory-test mistake: The three-tone PostBus horn warns you of an approaching bus; it does not by itself confer blanket priority. At narrow or blind sections, be ready to wait or reverse if necessary and follow the bus driver's instructions when passing or overtaking is difficult.

Do not confuse with: 4.06 End of mountain postal road

Ends the special mountain postal road rule requiring drivers to follow scheduled bus drivers' instructions when passing or overtaking is difficult.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Fin de la route postale de montagne · IT: Fine della strada postale di montagne

Where you will see it: At the end of a mountain postal road.

Do not confuse with: 4.05 Mountain postal road

Marks a tunnel. Use dipped headlights; U-turns and reversing are prohibited, and you may stop only in an emergency.

SSV Art. 45 · FR: Tunnel · IT: Galleria

Where you will see it: Before the tunnel entrance; longer tunnels often also display their name and length.

Common theory-test mistake: Daytime running lights alone are insufficient in a tunnel. Make sure your dipped headlights are on; with daytime running lights alone, the rear lights may remain off.

Marks a road that may be used only in the direction of the arrow. Normally there is no oncoming traffic.

SSV Art. 46 · FR: Sens unique · IT: Senso unico

Where you will see it: At the start of a one-way road; entry from the opposite end is prohibited by the No entry sign.

Common theory-test mistake: For the theory test, remember to position yourself at the far left when turning left from a one-way road, while allowing for any signed cycle contraflow. Parking on the left is also possible, provided the signs, markings and general parking rules allow it.

Do not confuse with: 2.02 No entry, 4.08.1 One-way road with cycle contraflow (example)

Marks a one-way road on which cyclists and moped riders may travel in the opposite direction.

SSV Art. 46 · FR: Sens unique avec circulation de cyclistes en sens inverse (exemple) · IT: Senso unico con circolazione di ciclisti in senso in verso (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the start of one-way roads where this exception applies, usually in built-up areas.

Common theory-test mistake: When entering or turning on these roads, always expect oncoming cycles and mopeds, even if the road looks like an ordinary one-way street.

Do not confuse with: 4.08 One-way road

Marks a road with no through route for vehicles.

SSV Art. 46 · FR: Impasse · IT: Strada senza uscita

Where you will see it: At the start of the dead-end road.

Common theory-test mistake: Additional symbols may show that pedestrians or cyclists can still pass through at the far end.

Marks a water protection area where particular care is required, especially when carrying substances that could pollute water.

SSV Art. 46 · FR: Zone de protection des eaux · IT: Zona di protezione delle acque

Where you will see it: On roads through groundwater and spring protection zones.

Common theory-test mistake: If fuel or oil leaks here, alert the police immediately. This is an important detail for the theory test.

Marks the exact location of a pedestrian crossing. At an uncontrolled crossing, give way to pedestrians; the exception for trams still applies.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Emplacement d’un passage pour piétons · IT: Ubicazione di un passaggio pedonale

Where you will see it: Immediately at the crossing: outside built-up areas, and at unexpected or poorly visible crossings within built-up areas.

Common theory-test mistake: Do not confuse it with triangular warning sign 1.22. This blue sign stands at the crossing itself; the warning sign announces it in advance.

Penalties for infringements: CHF 140 for a car driver failing to give way to pedestrians at a pedestrian crossing, where the fixed-penalty procedure applies.

Do not confuse with: 1.22 Pedestrian crossing ahead

Shows pedestrians where to use an underpass to cross the road.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Passage souterrain pour piétons · IT: Sottopassaggio pedonale

Where you will see it: At the entrances to the pedestrian subway.

Do not confuse with: 4.13 Pedestrian footbridge

Shows pedestrians where to use a footbridge to cross the road.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Passerelle pour piétons · IT: Cavalcavia pedonale

Where you will see it: At the entrances to the pedestrian footbridge.

Do not confuse with: 4.12 Pedestrian subway

Indicates a nearby hospital. Avoid unnecessary noise and show consideration for patient transport vehicles entering or leaving.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Hôpital · IT: Ospedale

Where you will see it: On roads near hospitals and clinics.

Common theory-test mistake: Avoid sounding the horn or making unnecessary noise here, unless a warning is needed to prevent an accident.

Marks a passing place on a narrow road, used to pass oncoming traffic or allow faster vehicles to overtake.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Place d’évitement · IT: Piazzuola

Where you will see it: At passing places on narrow mountain roads and minor roads.

Common theory-test mistake: Theory-test trap: do not stop voluntarily or park in a passing place. Keep it clear for passing traffic and for allowing faster vehicles past.

Do not confuse with: 4.16 Emergency stopping bay, 4.17 Parking permitted

Marks a bay reserved for emergency stops, such as a breakdown.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Place d’arrêt pour véhicules en panne · IT: Posto di fermata per veicoli in panna

Where you will see it: At emergency bays on motorways and expressways, including in tunnels.

Common theory-test mistake: An emergency bay is not a rest area. Do not stop there to make a phone call or take a break.

Do not confuse with: 4.15 Passing place

Marks an area where parking is permitted. Supplementary plates or markings specify restrictions on times, duration or vehicle types.

SSV Art. 48 · FR: Parcage autorisé · IT: Parcheggio

Where you will see it: At car parks and parking bays, both inside and outside built-up areas.

Common theory-test mistake: Always read the supplementary plate. The white P alone does not tell you the charges, maximum stay or permitted vehicle types.

Do not confuse with: 4.18 Parking with a parking disc, 4.20 Paid parking, 4.21 Covered car park

Parking is permitted only with a clearly displayed parking disc and within the permitted parking period.

SSV Art. 48a · FR: Parcage avec disque de stationnement · IT: Parcheggio con disco

Where you will see it: At blue-zone bays and other parking areas that require a parking disc.

Common theory-test mistake: Set the disc's arrow to the first half-hour mark after your actual arrival time, rather than to the exact arrival time.

Penalties for infringements: CHF 40 for a missing, not clearly displayed or incorrectly set parking disc, where the relevant fixed-penalty conditions apply.

Do not confuse with: 4.17 Parking permitted, 4.20 Paid parking

Parking is permitted only on payment of the parking charge, using the meter or ticket machine, and within the paid parking period.

SSV Art. 48b · FR: Parcage contre paiement · IT: Parcheggio contro pagamento

Where you will see it: At paid car parks and parking bays, especially in built-up areas.

Common theory-test mistake: Paying for parking does not automatically override the signed maximum stay. You may top up before the time expires only where the parking meter's instructions expressly allow it.

Penalties for infringements: CHF 40 for exceeding the paid parking period by up to two hours.

Do not confuse with: 4.17 Parking permitted, 4.18 Parking with a parking disc

Indicates a multi-storey car park or other covered parking facility.

SSV Art. 48 · FR: Parking couvert · IT: Parcheggio coperto

Where you will see it: At the car park entrance and on its approach roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.17 Parking permitted

Announces the route that the pictured type of vehicle, such as a lorry, should take at the next junction.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé pour des genres de véhicules déterminés (exemple camions) · IT: Segnale avanzato per determinate categorie di veicoli (ad es. autocarri)

Where you will see it: Before junctions where particular vehicle types should follow a designated route.

Do not confuse with: 4.45 Direction sign for specified vehicle types (lorry example)

Marks an escape lane designed to bring vehicles with failed brakes to a stop in a gravel bed.

SSV Art. 47 · FR: Voie de détresse (exemple) · IT: Uscita di scampo (esempio)

Where you will see it: Before the entrance to an escape lane on a long, steep descent.

Common theory-test mistake: Keep the escape lane clear at all times. It must not be used as an ordinary traffic lane or stopping place.

Marks a park-and-ride car park with direct connections to trains, buses or trams.

SSV Art. 48 · FR: Parking avec accès aux transports publics (exemple) · IT: Parcheggio con collegamento a un mezzo di trasporto pubblico (esempio)

Where you will see it: At park-and-ride facilities, usually near stations and stops on the edge of a town or city.

Do not confuse with: 4.46.1 Direction sign to park and ride (example), 4.17 Parking permitted

Shows the start of a locality on a main road, with white lettering on a blue background.

SSV Art. 50 · FR: Début de localité sur route principale · IT: Inizio della località sulle strade principali

Where you will see it: At the start of the built-up area on the main road, usually together with the General speed limit 50 sign.

Common theory-test mistake: The place-name sign does not itself change the speed limit. Observe the separate General speed limit 50 sign; if you enter from an insignificant minor road, such as a farm access road, the general 50 km/h limit also applies without a sign once the densely built-up area begins.

Do not confuse with: 4.29 Start of locality on a minor road

Shows the end of a locality on a main road and usually names the next destination.

SSV Art. 50 · FR: Fin de localité sur route principale · IT: Fine della località sulle strade principali

Where you will see it: At the end of the built-up area on the main road.

Common theory-test mistake: Do not accelerate merely because you pass this place-name sign. Check the applicable end-of-speed-limit sign; the locality sign itself does not cancel a speed limit.

Do not confuse with: 4.30 End of locality on a minor road

Shows the start of a locality on a minor road, with black lettering on a white background.

SSV Art. 50 · FR: Début de localité sur route secondaire · IT: Inizio della località sulle strade secondarie

Where you will see it: At the start of the built-up area on a minor road, usually together with the General speed limit 50 sign.

Common theory-test mistake: The place-name sign itself does not impose the limit. Observe the General speed limit 50 sign; if you enter from an insignificant minor road, such as a farm access road, the general 50 km/h limit still applies without a sign once the densely built-up area begins.

Do not confuse with: 4.27 Start of locality on a main road

Shows the end of a locality on a minor road.

SSV Art. 50 · FR: Fin de localité sur route secondaire · IT: Fine della località sulle strade secondarie

Where you will see it: At the end of the built-up area on the minor road.

Do not confuse with: 4.28 End of locality on a main road

A green-and-white direction sign showing the way to the nearest motorway or expressway entrance.

SSV Art. 57 · FR: Indicateur de direction pour autoroutes et semi-autoroutes · IT: Indicatore di direzione per le autostrade e semiautostrade

Where you will see it: At junctions on roads leading to a motorway or expressway.

Common theory-test mistake: Remember the direction-sign colours: green leads to motorways or expressways, blue follows main roads and white follows minor roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.32 Direction sign for main roads, 4.33 Direction sign for minor roads

A blue-and-white direction sign for destinations reached by main roads.

SSV Art. 51 · FR: Indicateur de direction pour routes principales · IT: Indicatore di direzione per le strade principali

Where you will see it: At junctions on main roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.31 Direction sign to a motorway or expressway, 4.33 Direction sign for minor roads

A white direction sign with black lettering for destinations reached by minor roads.

SSV Art. 51 · FR: Indicateur de direction pour routes secondaires · IT: Indicatore di direzione per strade secondarie

Where you will see it: At junctions on minor roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.31 Direction sign to a motorway or expressway, 4.32 Direction sign for main roads

An orange direction sign showing the alternative route to the named destination during a diversion.

SSV Art. 55 · FR: Indicateur de direction pour déviation · IT: Indicatore di direzione per deviazioni

Where you will see it: Along signed diversions around roadworks or closures.

Do not confuse with: 4.34.1 Diversion direction sign without a destination

An orange diversion sign marking the alternative route with an arrow and no destination name.

SSV Art. 55 · FR: Indicateur de direction pour déviation sans mention de la destination · IT: Indicatore di direzione per deviazione senza menzione del luogo di destinazione

Where you will see it: At each change of direction along the diversion.

Do not confuse with: 4.34 Diversion direction sign

Combines several destinations and directions at a junction on one sign in a table-like layout.

SSV Art. 51 · FR: Indicateur de direction en forme de tableau · IT: Indicatore di direzione a forma di tabella

Where you will see it: Before or at junctions where several destinations need to be shown together.

Uses a blue background to announce the next junction on a main road and the destinations reached from it.

SSV Art. 52 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé sur route principale · IT: Segnale di preavviso su strada principale

Where you will see it: An appropriate distance before junctions on main roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.37 Advance direction sign on minor roads, 4.38 Advance direction sign with lane allocation on main roads (examples)

Uses a white background to announce the next junction on a minor road and the destinations reached from it.

SSV Art. 52 · IT: Segnale di preavviso su strada seconda

Where you will see it: An appropriate distance before junctions on minor roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.36 Advance direction sign on main roads, 4.39 Advance direction sign with lane allocation on minor roads

Shows which lane leads to each destination before a junction on a main road.

SSV Art. 52 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé avec répartition des voies sur route principale (exemples) · IT: Segnale di preavviso con suddivisione delle corsie sulle strade principali (esempi)

Where you will see it: Before junctions with several lanes on main roads.

Common theory-test mistake: Move into the correct lane in good time. Hurried lane changes just before a junction are a common driving-test error.

Do not confuse with: 4.39 Advance direction sign with lane allocation on minor roads, 4.41 Overhead lane direction sign on main roads

Shows which lane leads to each destination before a junction on a minor road.

SSV Art. 52 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé avec répartition des voies sur route secondaire · IT: Segnale di preavviso con ripartizione delle corsie su strada secondarie

Where you will see it: Before junctions with several lanes on minor roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.38 Advance direction sign with lane allocation on main roads (examples), 4.42 Overhead lane direction sign on minor roads

Announces a restriction on one of the indicated routes, such as a weight or height limit.

SSV Art. 52 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé annonçant des restrictions · IT: Segnale di preavviso annunciante una limitazione

Where you will see it: Before junctions, so that affected vehicles can choose another route in good time.

Common theory-test mistake: If you are driving a large or heavy vehicle, choose the alternative route here. Turning back after the junction is often no longer possible.

An overhead sign on a main road showing the direction and destination for each lane.

SSV Art. 53 · FR: Panneau de présélection au-dessus d’une voie de circulation sur route principale · IT: Cartello di preselezione collocato al di sopra di una corsia su strada principale

Where you will see it: Above the individual lanes before junctions on main roads.

Common theory-test mistake: Each arrow refers to the lane directly below it. Choose your lane according to the sign and stay in it.

Do not confuse with: 4.42 Overhead lane direction sign on minor roads, 4.38 Advance direction sign with lane allocation on main roads (examples)

An overhead sign on a minor road showing the direction and destination for each lane.

SSV Art. 53 · FR: Panneau de présélection au-dessus d’une voie de circulation sur route secondaire · IT: Cartello di preselezione collocato al di sopra di una corsia su strada secondaria

Where you will see it: Above the lanes before junctions on minor roads.

Do not confuse with: 4.41 Overhead lane direction sign on main roads, 4.39 Advance direction sign with lane allocation on minor roads

Shows the pictured vehicle type, such as a lorry, which route to take at the junction.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction pour des genres de véhicules déterminés (exemple camions) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per determinate categorie di veicoli (ad es. autocarri)

Where you will see it: At junctions where the specified vehicle type should follow the signed route.

Do not confuse with: 4.23 Advance direction sign for specified vehicle types (lorry example)

Shows the way to a car park.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction «Place de stationnement» · IT: Indicatore di direzione «Parcheggio»

Where you will see it: On roads in the vicinity of the car park.

Do not confuse with: 4.17 Parking permitted, 4.46.1 Direction sign to park and ride (example)

Shows the way to a park-and-ride car park with connections to trains, buses or trams.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction «Parking avec accès aux transports publics» (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione «Parcheggio con collegamento a un mezzo di trasporto pubblico» (esempio)

Where you will see it: On the approach roads to park-and-ride facilities.

Do not confuse with: 4.25 Park and ride (example), 4.46 Direction sign to a car park

Shows the way to a campsite.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction «Place de camping» · IT: Indicatore di direzione «Campeggio»

Where you will see it: On the approach roads to the campsite.

Do not confuse with: 4.48 Direction sign to a caravan site

Shows the way to a site where caravans can be parked.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction «Terrain pour caravanes» · IT: Indicatore di direzione «Terreno per veicoli abitabili»

Where you will see it: On the approach roads to the caravan site.

Do not confuse with: 4.47 Direction sign to a campsite

Shows the way to businesses, company premises or public facilities away from the main routes.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction «Entreprise» · IT: Indicatore di direzione per aziende

Where you will see it: At junctions on the approach to the business or facility.

Do not confuse with: 4.49.1 Hotel direction sign (example)

Shows the way to a hotel or other hospitality establishment.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Indicateur de direction «Hôtel» (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per alberghi (esempio)

Where you will see it: At junctions on the approach to the hotel.

Do not confuse with: 4.49 Direction sign to a business or facility

A red direction sign showing a signed route for cycles and mopeds.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction pour cycles et cyclomoteurs (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per velocipedi e ciclomotori (esempio)

Where you will see it: At junctions along signed cycle routes.

Do not confuse with: 4.50.3 Direction sign for mountain bikes (example), 4.50.4 Direction sign for vehicle-like devices (example)

A red direction sign marking a mountain-bike route.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction pour vélos tout-terrains (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per mountain bike (esempio)

Where you will see it: Along signed mountain-bike routes, often on unsurfaced paths and mountain trails.

Do not confuse with: 4.50.1 Direction sign for cycles and mopeds (example)

A red direction sign for routes that can be used by non-motorised vehicle-like devices, such as kick scooters or inline skates.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction pour engins assimilés à des véhicules (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per mezzi simili a veicoli (esempio)

Where you will see it: Along routes signed for these devices.

Do not confuse with: 4.50.1 Direction sign for cycles and mopeds (example)

A red direction sign listing several destinations in a table for one user group, such as cyclists only.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction en forme de tableau destiné à un seul cercle d’usagers (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione a forma di tabella per una sola cerchia di utilizzatori (Esempio)

Where you will see it: At junctions in the relevant route network.

Do not confuse with: 4.50.6 Tabular direction sign for several user groups (example)

A red direction sign combining destinations for several user groups, such as cyclists and mountain bikers, on one panel.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction en forme de tableau destiné à plusieurs cercles d’usagers (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione a forma di tabella per più cerchie di utilizzatori (esempio)

Where you will see it: At junctions where several signed routes overlap.

Do not confuse with: 4.50.5 Tabular direction sign for one user group (example)

Confirms the course of a signed walking, cycling or similar non-motorised route with an arrow but no destination name.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction sans mention de la destination (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione senza destinazione (esempio)

Where you will see it: Where the route needs to be confirmed or clarified without naming a destination.

Do not confuse with: 4.34.1 Diversion direction sign without a destination

Announces the directions at the next junction on a signed cycle route without naming specific destinations.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé sans mention de la destination (exemple) · IT: Segnale di preavviso senza destinazione (esempio)

Where you will see it: Before junctions on signed cycle and mountain-bike routes.

Do not confuse with: 4.51.3 Route confirmation sign (example), 4.51.5 Advance direction sign for cycles, mopeds and vehicle-like devices (example)

Confirms that you are still on the signed cycle or mountain-bike route.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Plaque de confirmation (exemple) · IT: Cartello di conferma (esempio)

Where you will see it: After junctions and at intervals along the route.

Do not confuse with: 4.51.2 Advance direction sign without a destination (example), 4.52.5 Footpath and hiking trail confirmation sign (examples)

Shows the end of a signed mountain-bike route.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Plaque indiquant la fin d’un parcours pour vélos tout-terrains · IT: Cartello di fine percorso per mountain bike

Where you will see it: At the end of the relevant mountain-bike route.

Do not confuse with: 4.51.3 Route confirmation sign (example)

Announces directions and destinations at the next junction for cycles, mopeds and non-motorised vehicle-like devices.

SSV Art. 54a · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé pour cycles, cyclomoteurs et engins assimilés à des véhicules (exemple) · IT: Segnale di preavviso per velocipedi, ciclomotori e mezzi simili a veicoli (esempio)

Where you will see it: Before junctions on the corresponding signed routes.

Do not confuse with: 4.51.2 Advance direction sign without a destination (example)

Shows a diagram of the traffic route, for example around a diversion, a closure or a complex junction.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Guidage du trafic · IT: Guida del traffico

Where you will see it: Before the relevant location, often near roadworks and diversions.

Do not confuse with: 4.53 Advance diversion sign

Guides pedestrians along a signed pedestrian route network.

SSV Art. 54b · FR: Indicateur de direction pour réseaux de chemins pour piétons (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per reti pedonali (esempio)

Where you will see it: At footpath junctions, mainly in built-up areas.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.2 Direction sign for hiking trails (example)

Uses yellow signs to mark the course of hiking trails.

SSV Art. 54b · FR: Indicateur de direction pour chemins de randonnée pédestre (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per sentieri (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the start of hiking trails and at junctions along them.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.1 Direction sign for pedestrian networks (example), 4.52.3 Direction sign for mountain hiking trails (example), 4.52.4 Direction sign for alpine hiking trails (example)

Marks mountain hiking trails requiring sure-footedness and suitable equipment. Recognisable by the white-red-white tip of the direction sign.

SSV Art. 54b · FR: Indicateur de direction pour chemins de randonnée de montagne (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per sentieri di montagna (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the start of mountain hiking trails and at junctions along them.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.2 Direction sign for hiking trails (example), 4.52.4 Direction sign for alpine hiking trails (example)

Marks alpine hiking trails for experienced walkers with alpine equipment. Recognisable by the white-blue-white tip of the direction sign.

SSV Art. 54b · FR: Indicateur de direction pour chemins de randonnée alpine (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione per sentieri alpini (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the start of alpine hiking trails and at junctions along them.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.2 Direction sign for hiking trails (example), 4.52.3 Direction sign for mountain hiking trails (example)

Confirms that you are still following the signed footpath or hiking trail.

SSV Art. 54b · FR: Plaque de confirmation destinée aux chemins pour piétons et aux chemins de randonnée pédestre (exemple) · IT: Cartello di conferma percorso pedonale e sentiero (esempi)

Where you will see it: Along the route, especially after junctions.

Do not confuse with: 4.51.3 Route confirmation sign (example)

Points to destinations of tourist interest, such as sights or places for an excursion.

SSV Art. 54c · FR: Indicateur de direction touristique (exemple) · IT: Indicatore di direzione turistico (esempio)

Where you will see it: At junctions on the way to the tourist destination.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.7 Tourist symbol panel (example), 4.52.8 Tourist information panel (example)

Adds a symbol for a tourist destination or activity to the direction signs.

SSV Art. 54c · FR: Panneau des symboles touristiques (exemple) · IT: Cartello di simboli turistici (esempio)

Where you will see it: Together with direction signs for the relevant tourist destination.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.6 Tourist direction sign (example), 4.52.8 Tourist information panel (example)

Provides information about an area or feature of tourist interest nearby.

SSV Art. 54c · FR: Panneau d’information touristique (exemple) · IT: Cartello di indicazione turistico (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the roadside near the relevant area or feature.

Do not confuse with: 4.52.6 Tourist direction sign (example), 4.74.1 Tourist announcement sign (example)

Announces a diversion and shows a diagram of the route to follow.

SSV Art. 55 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé annonçant une déviation · IT: Segnale di preavviso annunciante una deviazione

Where you will see it: Before the start of a diversion, often near roadworks or closures.

Do not confuse with: 4.52 Traffic route layout

Shows the arrangement of a roundabout's exits and their destinations in advance.

SSV Art. 52 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé pour carrefour à sens giratoire (exemple) · IT: Segnale di preavviso presso aree con percorso rotatorio obbligato (esempio)

Where you will see it: On the approach to a roundabout.

Common theory-test mistake: Use the sign to identify the correct exit before entering, rather than deciding only once you are on the roundabout.

Indicates a hazard or traffic restriction on a road branching off the current road.

SSV Art. 54 · FR: Route latérale comportant un danger ou une restriction · IT: Strada laterale che implica un pericolo o una restrizione

Where you will see it: Before the junction with the affected side road.

Common theory-test mistake: The pictured sign applies to the branching road, not to the road you are currently following.

Shows a European route number in white on a green background.

SSV Art. 56 · FR: Plaque numérotée pour routes européennes · IT: Segnale di identificazione per le strade europee

Where you will see it: Along roads in the European route network, often combined with direction signs.

Do not confuse with: 4.57 Main-road number plate, 4.58 Motorway and expressway number plate

Shows a main-road number in white on a blue background.

SSV Art. 56 · FR: Plaque numérotée pour routes principales · IT: Segnale di identificazione per le strade principali

Where you will see it: Along numbered main roads and on their direction signs.

Do not confuse with: 4.56 European route number plates, 4.58 Motorway and expressway number plate

Shows a motorway or expressway number in white on a red background.

SSV Art. 56 · FR: Plaque numérotée pour autoroutes et semiautoroutes · IT: Segnale di identificazione per autostrade e semi-autostrade

Where you will see it: Along motorways and expressways and on their direction signs.

Do not confuse with: 4.56 European route number plates, 4.57 Main-road number plate

Shows the number of a motorway or expressway junction to help you find your way.

SSV Art. 56 · FR: Plaque numérotée pour jonctions · IT: Segnale di identificazione per raccordi

Where you will see it: On the advance direction signs and direction signs for the junction.

Do not confuse with: 4.59.1 Interchange number plate

Shows the number of an interchange where motorways or expressways divide.

SSV Art. 56 · FR: Plaque numérotée pour échangeurs · IT: Segnale di identificazione per diramazioni

Where you will see it: On the signs for the relevant interchange.

Do not confuse with: 4.59 Junction number plate

Announces the name of, and distance to, the next motorway or expressway junction.

SSV Art. 86 · FR: Panneau annonçant la prochaine jonction (art 86) · IT: Cartello preannunciante il prossimo raccordo

Where you will see it: On the right-hand side of the carriageway, usually shortly after the previous junction.

Do not confuse with: 4.61 Advance direction sign for a junction

Announces an approaching exit and the destinations reached from that junction.

SSV Art. 86 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé, destiné aux jonctions (art 86) · IT: Segnale di preavviso ai raccordi

Where you will see it: Several hundred metres before an exit on a motorway or expressway.

Do not confuse with: 4.60 Next junction announcement, 4.62 Direction sign at a junction

Shows the destinations reached via the junction at the exit.

SSV Art. 86 · FR: Indicateur de direction avancé destiné aux jonctions (art 86) · IT: Indicatore di direzione ai raccordi

Where you will see it: Immediately at the junction's exit.

Do not confuse with: 4.61 Advance direction sign for a junction, 4.63 Exit sign

Marks the start of the exit from a motorway or expressway.

SSV Art. 86 · FR: Panneau indicateur de sortie · IT: Indicatore d’uscita

Where you will see it: At the start of the exit, by the deceleration lane.

Common theory-test mistake: Normally, slow down on the deceleration lane rather than on the through carriageway. Adapt your speed earlier if traffic, visibility or a signed limit requires it.

Do not confuse with: 4.62 Direction sign at a junction

Shows how the carriageway divides into different directions and lists the destinations for each.

SSV Art. 86 und 87 · FR: Panneau de bifurcation · IT: Cartello di biforcazione

Where you will see it: Where motorway or expressway carriageways separate, usually above the carriageway.

Do not confuse with: 4.66 Interchange sign, 4.69 Overhead lane direction sign on motorways and expressways

Lists important destinations ahead with their distances in kilometres.

SSV Art. 86 und 87 · FR: Panneau des distances en kilomètres · IT: Cartello delle distanze in chilometri

Where you will see it: On the right-hand side of the carriageway after junctions and interchanges.

Announces an interchange where motorways or expressways divide into different directions.

SSV Art. 87 · FR: Panneau indicateur d’échangeur · IT: Cartello di diramazione

Where you will see it: Before an interchange on a motorway or expressway.

Do not confuse with: 4.64 Carriageway separation sign, 4.67 First advance direction sign for an interchange

Gives the first advance announcement of an interchange and its destinations.

SSV Art. 87 · FR: Premier indicateur de direction avancé, destiné aux échangeurs · IT: Primo segnale di preavviso alle diramazioni

Where you will see it: Well before the interchange.

Do not confuse with: 4.68 Second advance direction sign for an interchange, 4.66 Interchange sign

Repeats the interchange announcement closer to the point where the routes divide.

SSV Art. 87 · FR: Deuxième indicateur de direction avancé, destiné aux échangeurs · IT: Secondo segnale di preavviso alle diramazioni

Where you will see it: Between the first advance direction sign and the interchange.

Do not confuse with: 4.67 First advance direction sign for an interchange, 4.64 Carriageway separation sign

Shows above each lane which destinations can be reached by using that lane.

SSV Art. 86 und 87 · FR: Panneau de présélection audessus d’une voie de circulation sur autoroute et semi-autoroute · IT: Cartello di preselezione collocato al di sopra di una corsia su autostrada o semi-autostrada

Where you will see it: Above the carriageway before interchanges and junctions on motorways and expressways.

Common theory-test mistake: Move into the appropriate lane in good time, following the overhead sign, rather than changing lanes just before the routes divide.

Do not confuse with: 4.64 Carriageway separation sign

Shows the direction and distance to the nearest emergency telephone.

SSV Art. 89a · FR: Plaque indiquant un téléphone de secours · IT: Colonnina SOS

Where you will see it: On the right-hand side of the carriageway, particularly on motorways and expressways.

Do not confuse with: 4.80 Emergency telephone (examples)

Indicates a police station beside a motorway or expressway.

SSV Art. 89a · FR: Panneau indiquant un centre de police · IT: Centro di polizia

Where you will see it: Before the station's access road on a motorway or expressway.

Shows the road's kilometre reference to help identify your location.

SSV Art. 89a · FR: Plaque indiquant le nombre de kilomètres · IT: Cartello indicante i chilometri

Where you will see it: At regular intervals along the edge of motorways and expressways.

Do not confuse with: 4.73 Hundred-metre marker

Shows your location to the nearest 100 metres, helping you report an exact position, for example after a breakdown.

SSV Art. 89a · FR: Plaque indiquant le nombre d’hectomètres · IT: Cartello indicante gli ettometri

Where you will see it: At short intervals along the edge of motorways and expressways.

Do not confuse with: 4.72 Kilometre marker

Announces a service area and the facilities available there.

SSV Art. 89 · FR: Aire de ravitaillement (exemple) · IT: Area di servizio (esempio)

Where you will see it: Before the service-area entrance on a motorway or expressway.

Draws attention to a region or attraction of tourist interest from a motorway or expressway.

SSV Art. 89b · FR: Panneau annonçant une destination touristique (exemple) · IT: Cartello turistico di annuncio (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the roadside before or within the relevant area.

Do not confuse with: 4.74.2 Tourist welcome sign (example), 4.52.8 Tourist information panel (example)

Welcomes travellers arriving in a region, canton or locality.

SSV Art. 89b · FR: Panneau touristique de bienvenue (exemple) · IT: Cartello turistico di benvenuto (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the boundary of the area alongside a motorway or expressway.

Do not confuse with: 4.74.1 Tourist announcement sign (example)

Uses changeable panels to show whether mountain roads and passes are open and whether winter equipment is required.

SSV Art. 58 · FR: État de la route · IT: Stato delle strade

Where you will see it: At the beginning of the relevant mountain route.

Do not confuse with: 4.76 Advance road conditions information

Gives early information on the condition and accessibility of several mountain passes or roads.

SSV Art. 58 · FR: Préavis sur l’état de la route · IT: Preavviso sullo stato delle strade

Where you will see it: At important junctions well before the relevant mountain routes.

Do not confuse with: 4.75 Road conditions

Black arrows on a white background show the number and course of the lanes, including where lanes are added or end.

SSV Art. 59 · FR: Disposition des voies de circulation (exemples) · IT: Disposizione delle corsie (esempi)

Where you will see it: Before or at changes in lane layout, especially on motorways and expressways.

Common theory-test mistake: Do not confuse this sign with overhead lane-control lights. Under that separate system, a red cross closes the lane and you must leave it; the black arrows on this sign explain the lane layout.

Do not confuse with: 4.77.1 Lane layout with restrictions (example), 4.77.2 Hard shoulder open to traffic (examples)

Shows lanes subject to a restriction, such as a lower speed limit. The relevant sign is displayed within the arrow for the affected lane.

SSV Art. 59 · FR: Disposition des voies de circulation annonçant des restrictions (exemple) · IT: Disposizione delle corsie con restrizioni (esempio)

Where you will see it: On approaches to the affected lanes, particularly on motorways and expressways.

Do not confuse with: 4.77 Lane layout (examples)

Shows that the hard shoulder is open for use as a traffic lane.

SSV Art. 59 · FR: Ouverture de la bande d’arrêt d’urgence (exemples) (art 59) · IT: Apertura della corsia di emergenza (esempi)

Where you will see it: On motorway sections equipped for opening the hard shoulder to traffic.

Common theory-test mistake: Use the hard shoulder only when it is expressly opened by the applicable signs or lane-control lights. In a lane-control system, a green downward arrow permits use; a red cross closes the lane. An unlit display alone does not authorise use.

Do not confuse with: 4.77 Lane layout (examples)

Shows lane shifts, reductions and the return to the normal lane layout at roadworks. A red rectangle marks the location of the works on the sign.

SSV Art. 59 · FR: Disposition du tracé des voies de circulation aux abords d’un chantier (exemples) · IT: Disposizione delle corsie in corrispondenza di cantieri (esempi)

Where you will see it: Before and within roadworks, especially on motorways.

Do not confuse with: 4.77.4 Lanes diverted to the opposite carriageway

Announces that lanes are being diverted across to the opposite carriageway.

SSV Art. 59 · FR: Déviation de voies de circulation · IT: Deviazione di corsie

Where you will see it: Before the crossover, usually at motorway roadworks.

Do not confuse with: 4.77.3 Lane layout at roadworks (examples)

Uses a symbol to identify a facility, service or building. Supplementary information may explain the service shown where the signage rules permit it.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Signal portant des informations (exemple) · IT: Segnale riportante informazioni (esempio)

Where you will see it: At the relevant location or on its approach, as provided for the facility concerned.

Shows the location of an emergency telephone.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Poste d’appel d’urgence (exemples) · IT: Telefono di emergenza (esempi)

Where you will see it: At emergency telephone points, particularly in tunnels and rest areas.

Do not confuse with: 4.70 Direction to an emergency telephone

Indicates a filling station that also offers alternative fuels or vehicle charging facilities.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Station-service proposant du carburant de remplacement (exemple) · IT: Rifornimento incluso carburante alternativo (esempio)

Where you will see it: Before the station entrance, for example at service areas and rest areas.

Gives the radio frequency on which traffic information for the road section can be received.

SSV Art. 89a · FR: Bulletin routier radiophonique · IT: Bollettino radio sulle condizioni del traffico

Where you will see it: At the roadside, particularly before and inside tunnels.

Marks a parking area approved for automated parking by vehicles equipped with an automated driving system.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Véhicules équipés d’un système d’automatisation · IT: Veicoli a guida automatizzata

Where you will see it: At every vehicle entrance and pedestrian access to the approved automated parking area.

Indicates regularly held religious services, for example at a church or chapel.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Service religieux · IT: Funzioni religiose

Where you will see it: Beside the road near the relevant place of worship.

Provides information on Switzerland's general speed limits for the different types of road.

SSV Art. 61 · FR: Information sur les limitations générales de vitesse · IT: Informazioni sui limiti generali di velocità

Where you will see it: At border crossings on entry into Switzerland.

Common theory-test mistake: This sign gives the general limits only. Local signs and any lower limit applicable to your vehicle must also be observed.

Shows the direction and distance to the nearest emergency exits in a tunnel.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Direction et distance vers l’issue de secours la plus proche · IT: Direzione della prossima uscita di sicurezza e distanza da essa

Where you will see it: At regular intervals on the tunnel wall.

Do not confuse with: 4.95 Emergency exit

Marks the location of an emergency exit.

SSV Art. 62 · FR: Issue de secours · IT: Uscita di sicurezza

Where you will see it: Directly at the emergency exit, particularly in tunnels.

Do not confuse with: 4.94 Direction and distance to the nearest emergency exit