Pass on the indicated side
Official name: All drivers must pass the sign on the side indicated by the arrow
Direction of travel
Written by Chris Prosman Reviewed by Dirk van Zuijlen
Updated
- Sign code
- D2
- Category
- Direction of travel
- Traffic signs
- Pass the sign on the side indicated by the arrow.
D2 requires drivers and riders to pass the sign on the side indicated by the white arrow. It may stand on a traffic island or beside an obstruction. The arrow determines the passing side; it does not grant priority over oncoming traffic.
What to do at this sign
Look well ahead for the arrow and the remaining space before the island. Use the indicated side even if the other opening seems clear. Watch for cyclists alongside as the carriageway narrows and adapt your speed to the available passage.
Example on the road
A D2 arrow points diagonally down to the right. You must pass to the right of the sign and island. This is not an instruction to turn right at the next junction: it concerns passing this sign.
Other conditions to check
Supplementary panels can explain its application or indicate an exemption. Do not confuse the passing side with lane choice for a later turn. Establish priority at a narrowing from other signs and the actual traffic situation.
How to recognise the sign
A circular blue sign with white arrows or a white symbol identifying the road users concerned.
Difference from D3 — Pass on either side
D3 shows two arrows and permits passing on either side. D2 requires one specified side.
D3 — Pass on either sideLegal basis
Frequently asked questions
- Can I choose the clear opposite side?
- Not at D2: use the side indicated by its arrow.
- Does D2 require a turn further ahead?
- No. It determines which side of this sign you must pass.
Explained in the course
Practise this sign for your theory exam
Pass on the indicated side belongs to the Direction of travel category. In the CBR theory exam a traffic sign is almost never asked on its own: you are shown a situation and have to know what you may or must do in it. In the free sign trainer you practise the signs by category, with the explanation shown right after every answer.
Practise traffic signs for free Practise car theory: free mock exam
