I Segnali di Obbligo (Mandatory Signs)

Unlike warning signs (triangular) or prohibition signs (circular with a red border), mandatory signs are circular and blue. When you see blue, the road isn’t just giving you a suggestion—it is giving you an order. If you don’t follow it, you are not just failing your exam; you are committing a violation.

1. Directional Mandatory Signs (Segnali di Direzione Obbligatoria)

These arrows tell you exactly where you must go. A common mistake is confusing “Mandatory Direction” with “One-Way Street.”

• Direzione Obbligatoria (Straight, Left, or Right): You must follow the direction of the arrow at the next intersection.

• Preavviso di Direzione Obbligatoria: These arrows are often slanted. They warn you before the intersection that you will soon be forced to turn.

• Direzioni Consentite (Allowed Directions): If the sign shows two arrows (e.g., straight and right), you can choose between those two, but you cannot turn left.

2. Passage and Roundabout Signs

These signs dictate how you move around an obstacle or enter a junction.

Passage Obbligatorio (Mandatory Passage)

• Passaggio Obbligatorio a Sinistra/Destra: Used when there is an obstacle in the road (like a traffic island or a work site). The arrow points to the side where you must pass.

• Passaggio Consentito (Allowed Passage): Two arrows pointing down and outwards. You can pass the obstacle on either the left or the right.

Rotatoria (Roundabout)

The classic circular arrow sign. In Italy, as of 2026, remember the hierarchy: vehicles already inside the roundabout usually have priority, but always look for the “Give Way” (Dare Precedenza) sign at the entrance to be sure.

3. Specific Mandatory Requirements

These signs are often the “traps” in the theory quiz because they involve technical details.

• Limite Minimo di Velocità (Minimum Speed): A blue circle with a white number (e.g., 30). You must drive at that speed or faster (conditions permitting). You cannot drive slower.

• Catene da Neve Obbligatorie (Snow Chains): Indicates that from that point on, you must have snow chains mounted or be equipped with approved winter tires (M+S).

• Obbligo di Fermata – Dogana/Polizia: You must come to a complete stop at Customs (Dogana), Police stations, or Toll booths (Alt Stazione) if indicated.

4. Reserved Lanes and Paths

These signs tell you that a specific part of the road is “Exclusive.”

The “End of Obligation” Sign: When you see a red diagonal line crossing out any of the blue signs above (like the minimum speed or a cycle path), it means the mandate is over. You are back to general rules.

5. 2026 Update: Micro-Mobility Mandates

With the latest updates to the Codice della Strada, you will now see mandatory signs specifically for Monopattini Elettrici (E-scooters).

• If a cycle path has a sub-panel with an e-scooter icon, you must use the path and stay off the main road.

• In certain “Zone 30” areas, there may be mandatory lanes for light electric vehicles to keep them separated from heavy traffic.

Trust the process & click for course resources in order: