Command sign · R103
Keep left sign (R103)
Pass to the left of the obstruction or traffic island.
What does the keep left sign mean?
Pass to the left of the obstruction or traffic island.
What should you do?
Follow the arrow around the island. This is not a left-turn instruction.
| Sign code | R103 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Command signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the keep left sign
A blue circle with a white arrow slanting down to the left.
Where you will see it
At obstructions such as traffic islands. Only one of R103 or R104 appears at a time.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Pass the obstruction on its left, following the arrow, and keep an eye on pedestrians and nearby traffic.
The common mistake
The diagonal arrow means “pass on this side”. A flat horizontal arrow (R105) means “turn left here”.
About command signs
Command signs tell you what you must do, such as keeping left or using a minimum speed. They are blue circles with white symbols. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the keep left sign (R103) 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: command signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: follow the arrow around the island. This is not a left-turn instruction.
- 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 Speed signs and mandatory directions.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the keep left sign with these:
Keep right (R104)A blue circle with a white arrow slanting down to the right.
Turn left (R105)A blue circle with a white arrow pointing left. The manual groups it with the “proceed left only” signs.
Turn left ahead (R108)A blue circle with a white arrow that turns left, telling you what to do at the junction ahead.Test yourself: Keep left sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Only motorcycles may use this route.
- Pass to the left of the obstruction or traffic island.
- Voluntary stopping is prohibited here.
Show the answer
Answer B: Pass to the left of the obstruction or traffic island.
Follow the arrow around the island. This is not a left-turn instruction.
Memory tip: R103 · Keep left
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Follow the arrow around the island. This is not a left-turn instruction.
- Use another route if you are driving a different vehicle.
- Do not stop to collect or drop off passengers. Obey traffic controls and emergencies.
Show the answer
Answer A: Follow the arrow around the island. This is not a left-turn instruction.
Keep left: Pass to the left of the obstruction or traffic island.
Memory tip: Follow the arrow around the island. This is not a left-turn instruction.
All vehicle codes
Keep left sign: quick questions
What does the keep left sign (R103) mean?
Pass to the left of the obstruction or traffic island.
What should you do at the keep left sign?
Pass the obstruction on its left, following the arrow, and keep an eye on pedestrians and nearby traffic.
Where will you see the keep left sign?
At obstructions such as traffic islands. Only one of R103 or R104 appears at a time.
What is the common mistake with the keep left sign?
The diagonal arrow means “pass on this side”. A flat horizontal arrow (R105) means “turn left here”.
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.