Mandatory signsCanada

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Mandatory signs

A mandatory sign is a traffic sign that tells drivers what they must do. Instead of prohibiting actions, these signs impose obligations such as following a specific direction, using a particular lane, or keeping a minimum speed. Their purpose is to guide traffic safely and efficiently by ensuring that all road users follow the same required behaviour in places where it is necessary for order and safety.


Turning left mandatory. Turning left or right mandatory. Turning right mandatory. Pass obstacle on the left. Pass obstacle on the right. Driving straight ahead or turning left mandatory. Driving straight ahead or turning right mandatory. Driving straight ahead mandatory. Mandatory path for cyclists. Mandatory path for mopeds. Mandatory path for snowmobiles. Mandatory lane for trucks. Mandatory shared pedestrian and cycle path. Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path. Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path. Start of a minimum speed. Mandatory route for dangerous goods.

1. Turning left mandatory

This traffic sign indicates that turning left is mandatory at the junction ahead. Traffic must turn left and may not continue straight ahead or turn right.

Turning left mandatory.

2. Turning left or right mandatory

This traffic sign indicates that turning left or right is mandatory at the junction ahead. Traffic may turn either left or right but may not continue straight ahead.

Turning left or right mandatory.

3. Turning right mandatory

This traffic sign indicates that turning right is mandatory at the junction ahead. Traffic must turn right and may not continue straight ahead or turn left.

Turning right mandatory.

4. Pass obstacle on the left

This traffic sign indicates that traffic must pass an obstacle on the left. Keep to the left of the obstacle and follow any accompanying signs or road markings.

Pass obstacle on the left.

5. Pass obstacle on the right

This traffic sign indicates that traffic must pass an obstacle on the right. Keep to the right of the obstacle and follow any accompanying signs or road markings.

Pass obstacle on the right.

6. Driving straight ahead or turning left mandatory

This traffic sign indicates that traffic must continue straight ahead or turn left. One of the indicated directions must be followed; turning right is prohibited.

Driving straight ahead or turning left mandatory.

7. Driving straight ahead or turning right mandatory

This traffic sign indicates that traffic must continue straight ahead or turn right. One of the indicated directions must be followed; turning left is prohibited.

Driving straight ahead or turning right mandatory.

8. Driving straight ahead mandatory

This traffic sign indicates that driving straight ahead is mandatory. Traffic must continue straight ahead and may not turn left or right at the location to which the sign applies.

Driving straight ahead mandatory.

9. Mandatory path for cyclists

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory path for cyclists. Cyclists must use the designated path where the sign applies. Other road users may use the path only where the applicable signs or local rules permit them to do so.

Mandatory path for cyclists.

10. Mandatory path for mopeds

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory path for mopeds. The moped categories covered by the sign must use the designated path. Other road users may use it only where the applicable signs or local rules permit them to do so.

Mandatory path for mopeds.

11. Mandatory path for snowmobiles

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory path for snowmobiles. Snowmobiles must use the designated path or track where required. Other road users may use it only where specifically permitted.

Mandatory path for snowmobiles.

12. Mandatory lane for trucks

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory lane for trucks. Trucks must use the designated lane where the sign applies. Other road users may use the lane only where the applicable signs or local rules permit them to do so.

Mandatory lane for trucks.

13. Mandatory shared pedestrian and cycle path

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory shared path for pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians and cyclists must use the same designated path rather than separate sections. They must share the space safely and follow the applicable local rules.

Mandatory shared pedestrian and cycle path.

14. Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory divided path for pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians and cyclists must use the section designated for them. Other road users may use the path only where the applicable signs or local rules permit them to do so.

Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path.

15. Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory divided path for pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians and cyclists must use the section designated for them. Other road users may use the path only where the applicable signs or local rules permit them to do so.

Mandatory divided pedestrian and cycle path.

16. Start of a minimum speed

This traffic sign indicates the start of a minimum speed. Road users covered by the sign must travel at or above the indicated speed when conditions allow. Driving more slowly may still be necessary because of traffic, weather, road conditions or another safety-related reason.

Start of a minimum speed.

17. Mandatory route for dangerous goods

This traffic sign indicates a mandatory route for vehicles carrying dangerous goods. Vehicles carrying dangerous goods must use the route indicated by the sign.

Mandatory route for dangerous goods.