A single pole often carries multiple signs stacked together. Reading them correctly from top to bottom, and understanding how supplementary plates modify the main sign, is a tested skill in the Swedish theory exam.
Main Sign and Supplementary Plates
The main sign (largest, at the top) states the primary rule — for example, no parking. Below it, rectangular supplementary plates (tilläggstavlor) modify when, where, or for whom the rule applies. A plate showing “08–18” means the restriction applies between 8 am and 6 pm only. A plate showing “Mån–Fre” (Monday to Friday) further restricts the days.
Distance and Direction Plates
A supplementary plate with an arrow and metres (e.g. “←50m”) tells you the restriction starts or ends 50 metres in that direction. This is common at the edge of no-parking zones to indicate extent.
Reading Order
Always read signs from top to bottom. The main sign sets the rule; each plate below it narrows the application. If no plate is present, the rule applies at all times to all vehicles.
Exam tip: Exam questions often show a sign assembly and ask whether a specific vehicle at a specific time is permitted. Work through main sign first, then each plate in order.