Control sign · R1.3
Three-way stop sign (R1.3)
The three junction approaches have stop controls.
What does the three-way stop sign mean?
The three junction approaches have stop controls.
What should you do?
Stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
| Sign code | R1.3 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Control signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the three-way stop sign
A STOP sign with a small plate showing the number 3 beneath it.
Where you will see it
A junction where all three approaches carry a stop sign, so everyone arriving must stop.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Stop completely at your line, then watch who else has stopped.
- The vehicle that stopped first moves off first.
- Check pedestrians and the junction before you go.
The common mistake
The plate tells you how many approaches are controlled; it does not let several vehicles move at once. If the order is unclear, stay put until it is safe.
About control signs
Control signs tell you how to enter, cross or use part of the road, for example by stopping or giving way. They are mostly red and white. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the three-way stop sign (R1.3) and choose the correct response, so learn both the picture and the action.
How to answer a test question about this sign
- Look at the shape and colour first. They tell you the group: control signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
- Remove the options that describe a different group of sign, then choose the response that matches the action.
Want the full explanation? Read the chapter Stop and yield signs.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the three-way stop sign with these:
Stop (R1)A red octagon with white STOP lettering. No other road sign has eight sides, so it can be recognised even when dirt hides the…
Stop with left-turn yield (R1.2)A STOP sign mounted above a small yield triangle that contains a left-turn arrow.
Four-way stop (R1.4)A STOP sign with a small plate showing the number 4 beneath it.Test yourself: Three-way stop sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Only motorcycles may use this route.
- The three junction approaches have stop controls.
- Pedestrians crossing here have priority.
Show the answer
Answer B: The three junction approaches have stop controls.
Stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
Memory tip: R1.3 · Three-way stop
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
- Use another route if you are driving a different vehicle.
- Slow down and give pedestrians time to cross safely.
Show the answer
Answer A: Stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
Three-way stop: The three junction approaches have stop controls.
Memory tip: Stop completely and observe which vehicles stopped before you. Proceed in the stopping order only when safe.
All vehicle codes
Three-way stop sign: quick questions
What does the three-way stop sign (R1.3) mean?
The three junction approaches have stop controls.
What should you do at the three-way stop sign?
Stop completely at your line, then watch who else has stopped. The vehicle that stopped first moves off first. Check pedestrians and the junction before you go.
Where will you see the three-way stop sign?
A junction where all three approaches carry a stop sign, so everyone arriving must stop.
What is the common mistake with the three-way stop sign?
The plate tells you how many approaches are controlled; it does not let several vehicles move at once. If the order is unclear, stay put until it is safe.
Sign artwork: Southern African Development Community (SADC), public domain. AceK53 is an independent study aid. Always confirm test requirements with your driving licence testing centre.