Blue mandatory signs: directions and required actions

Mandatory signs are often circular with a blue background and require a particular direction or action. Read the symbol and check where the sign is placed to understand whom it applies to.

An instruction shown by the symbol

Many mandatory signs are circular and have a blue background. The symbol in the centre shows the required action: a direction to follow, which side to pass on, a route reserved for certain users, or the use of a particular lane. The shape helps you recognise the group, but only the specific symbol tells you what to do. Do not confuse these signs with information signs, which may also have a blue background but serve different purposes and use different shapes.

When a sign requires you to follow a direction, plan your manoeuvre in good time and check for vulnerable road users and vehicles behind you. Depending on its position and any supplementary plates, an instruction may apply to a particular lane or category of road user. Traffic signals and directions from police officers may also control the junction at that moment; take in the whole situation rather than reading the sign in isolation.

• Identify the central symbol and the direction required.
• Check which lane or category of road user it applies to.
• Make your manoeuvre in good time without cutting across anyone else’s path.

Mandatory signs and information signs

A circular blue arrow indicates a mandatory direction; an arrow on a rectangular sign may instead show a route or destination. The shape and context help you tell the difference. Read the road markings too: lane arrows, lines and symbols on the road may supplement the upright sign. At roadworks, temporary signs may require a different route from the usual one, so follow the layout currently in force.

The regulations describe the symbols and the conditions for their use. If you are unsure about a particular sign, check the official illustrations and consider where it is positioned: a sign facing one lane may not apply in the same way to traffic travelling elsewhere. Do not make a prohibited turn just because the route looks more direct.

Learning the signs visually

If a blue sign shows a reserved route, check which category of road user may use it and where the instruction ends. Do not enter a cycle lane or reserved lane just because it looks clear. At channelled junctions, choose your lane in advance and follow the arrows on the road: moving across at the last moment may force others to brake. If you take the wrong direction, continue along the road and recalculate your route when stopped somewhere safe.

With Quiz Patente Ufficiale you can study signs by chapter, take timed quizzes and review your mistakes.