Swedish motorways (motorvägar) have specific rules for joining, driving, and leaving. They are the safest road type per kilometre — but when things go wrong, consequences are severe due to high speeds.
Speed Limits
The maximum motorway speed in Sweden is 120 km/h where posted. Many sections are limited to 100 or 110 km/h. Variable limits apply in some areas based on traffic and weather. There is no national blanket motorway speed — always follow the posted sign.
What Is Not Allowed
U-turns, reversing, stopping on the carriageway, picking up or dropping off passengers, and pedestrians and cyclists are all prohibited on motorways. Animals must not be walked on the motorway. If you miss your exit, continue to the next one.
Breakdown Procedure
If your vehicle is failing, leave the motorway at the nearest exit if possible. If you must stop, pull fully onto the hard shoulder. Turn on hazard lights, place a warning triangle at least 100 metres behind the vehicle, put on a high-visibility vest before exiting the vehicle, and stand behind the barrier — not beside the vehicle.
Exam tip: The hard shoulder is for emergencies only. Stopping there to check a map or make a phone call is illegal and extremely dangerous.