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Mandatory direction of travel
The sign indicates that drivers shall leave the intersection in the direction indicated on the sign.
When you see the sign
You must turn either right or left at the junction or location where the sign applies. You are not allowed to continue straight ahead; you must choose one of the two mandatory directions.
Rules
- You can choose between turning right and turning left.
- You cannot drive straight past the location where the mandatory direction applies.
- The sign does not give you priority; you must still comply with give-way rules, traffic lights and other traffic regulations.
- You must use your turn signal well in advance of the turn you choose.
Tips
- Move into the correct lane for your chosen direction in good time.
- Look for lane arrows and road markings that may limit which lane you can turn from.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot before changing lanes or turning.
- Pay particular attention to pedestrians and cyclists when turning.
Common misconceptions
- Some people think the sign means they can also drive straight ahead, but going straight is not permitted.
- Some interpret the arrows as a recommendation, even though a mandatory sign indicates directions that must be followed.
- Some people think the sign gives them priority when turning, but give-way rules and traffic lights still apply.
Test yourself
Easy
What does this sign mean?
- AYou must pass an obstruction on either side.
- BYou must turn right and not left.
- CYou must turn either right or left.
- DYou must drive either straight ahead or to the right.
Medium
You are approaching an intersection with this sign and choose to turn right. What should you do?
- AYou must signal left before turning right.
- BYou must drive straight ahead if the road is clear.
- CYou must turn right without giving a signal.
- DYou must signal right well in advance of the turn.
Hard
You choose to turn left at a signal-controlled intersection. You have a green light, but oncoming traffic is driving straight ahead. What applies?
- AYou must turn right when oncoming traffic approaches.
- BYou have priority because the traffic light is green.
- CYou have priority because the sign requires a left turn.
- DYou must give way to the oncoming traffic before turning.
Theory test tip
Look carefully at the number and direction of the arrows. Two arrows pointing right and left mean that you must turn in one of the two directions; they do not mean that you can drive straight ahead or pass an obstacle on either side.
Did you know
The sign combines two permitted turning directions in a single mandatory sign. It is typically used where traffic must be diverted away from the direction straight ahead, while both side directions can be used.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive straight ahead if the road is clear?
No. The sign requires you to turn right or left, so going straight ahead is not a legal option even if the road is physically clear.
Does the sign determine whether I must turn right rather than left?
No, the sign itself permits both turning directions. Lane arrows, other signs or traffic controls may nevertheless determine which direction you can take from a particular lane.
Do I have priority when I follow the arrows?
No. The sign only indicates the mandatory direction of travel, and you must still comply with give-way rules, traffic lights and the rules concerning pedestrians and cyclists.
Is this the same as the sign for a mandatory lane?
No. The mandatory lane sign shows which side of a sign or traffic island you must pass, whereas this sign requires you to turn right or left.
Practise for the theory test
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