Command sign · R104
Keep right sign (R104)
Pass to the right of the obstruction or traffic island.
What does the keep right sign mean?
Pass to the right of the obstruction or traffic island.
What should you do?
Follow the arrow while observing other traffic.
| Sign code | R104 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Command signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the keep right sign
A blue circle with a white arrow slanting down to the right.
Where you will see it
At obstructions such as traffic islands where traffic must pass on the right.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Pass on the right of the obstruction as shown, staying within your lane.
The common mistake
It is the mirror image of R103. Do not read it as a right-turn instruction, and do not drive into opposing traffic to follow it.
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 right sign (R104) 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 while observing other traffic.
- 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 right sign with these:
Keep left (R103)A blue circle with a white arrow slanting down to the left.
Turn right (R106)A blue circle with a white arrow pointing right, in the same group as “proceed right only”.
Turn right ahead (R109)A blue circle with a white arrow that turns right, for the junction ahead.Test yourself: Keep right sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- This route is restricted to motorcars.
- Pedestrians may not use this road.
- Pass to the right of the obstruction or traffic island.
Show the answer
Answer C: Pass to the right of the obstruction or traffic island.
Follow the arrow while observing other traffic.
Memory tip: R104 · Keep right
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Use a permitted pedestrian route.
- Check that your vehicle is in the permitted class.
- Follow the arrow while observing other traffic.
Show the answer
Answer C: Follow the arrow while observing other traffic.
Keep right: Pass to the right of the obstruction or traffic island.
Memory tip: Follow the arrow while observing other traffic.
All vehicle codes
Keep right sign: quick questions
What does the keep right sign (R104) mean?
Pass to the right of the obstruction or traffic island.
What should you do at the keep right sign?
Pass on the right of the obstruction as shown, staying within your lane.
Where will you see the keep right sign?
At obstructions such as traffic islands where traffic must pass on the right.
What is the common mistake with the keep right sign?
It is the mirror image of R103. Do not read it as a right-turn instruction, and do not drive into opposing traffic to follow it.
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.