Control sign · R1.4
Four-way stop sign (R1.4)
Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
What does the four-way stop sign mean?
Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
What should you do?
Stop completely. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
| Sign code | R1.4 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Control signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the four-way stop sign
A STOP sign with a small plate showing the number 4 beneath it.
Where you will see it
A four-way intersection where every approach has a stop sign.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Stop behind the line, or level with the sign if there is no line.
- When more than one vehicle has stopped, the one that stopped first moves off first.
- Proceed only when the crossing is clear.
The common mistake
“First to stop, first to go” is about arrival order, not speed. Do not hurry to beat another driver to the line or assume someone will yield to you.
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 four-way stop sign (R1.4) 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. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
- 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 four-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.
Three-way stop (R1.3)A STOP sign with a small plate showing the number 3 beneath it.Test yourself: Four-way stop sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
- You may not exceed 100 km/h.
- You must turn left at this point.
Show the answer
Answer A: Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
Stop completely. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
Memory tip: R1.4 · Four-way stop
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Stop completely. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
- A lower vehicle-specific speed limit still applies to your vehicle.
- Check, signal and turn left safely.
Show the answer
Answer A: Stop completely. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
Four-way stop: Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
Memory tip: Stop completely. Vehicles normally proceed in the order they stopped.
All vehicle codes
Four-way stop sign: quick questions
What does the four-way stop sign (R1.4) mean?
Every approach to this junction has a stop control.
What should you do at the four-way stop sign?
Stop behind the line, or level with the sign if there is no line. When more than one vehicle has stopped, the one that stopped first moves off first. Proceed only when the crossing is clear.
Where will you see the four-way stop sign?
A four-way intersection where every approach has a stop sign.
What is the common mistake with the four-way stop sign?
“First to stop, first to go” is about arrival order, not speed. Do not hurry to beat another driver to the line or assume someone will yield to you.
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.