Command sign · R108
Turn left ahead sign (R108)
You must turn left at the junction ahead.
What does the turn left ahead sign mean?
You must turn left at the junction ahead.
What should you do?
Position correctly and signal in good time.
| Sign code | R108 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Command signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the turn left ahead sign
A blue circle with a white arrow that turns left, telling you what to do at the junction ahead.
Where you will see it
Shortly before an intersection, so you can prepare in advance.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Check your mirrors, move into the proper lane, slow down and signal.
- Make the left turn at the junction, not at the sign.
The common mistake
R105 applies at the point you stand; this one is about the junction in front of you. Read the arrow and where you are.
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 turn left ahead sign (R108) 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: position correctly and signal in good time.
- 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 turn left ahead sign with these:
Turn left (R105)A blue circle with a white arrow pointing left. The manual groups it with the “proceed left only” signs.
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”.Test yourself: Turn left ahead sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- A road crosses your route ahead.
- You may not exceed 60 km/h.
- You must turn left at the junction ahead.
Show the answer
Answer C: You must turn left at the junction ahead.
Position correctly and signal in good time.
Memory tip: R108 · Turn left ahead
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Look for vehicles entering from either side and observe junction controls.
- Drive more slowly when weather, traffic or visibility requires it.
- Position correctly and signal in good time.
Show the answer
Answer C: Position correctly and signal in good time.
Turn left ahead: You must turn left at the junction ahead.
Memory tip: Position correctly and signal in good time.
All vehicle codes
Turn left ahead sign: quick questions
What does the turn left ahead sign (R108) mean?
You must turn left at the junction ahead.
What should you do at the turn left ahead sign?
Check your mirrors, move into the proper lane, slow down and signal. Make the left turn at the junction, not at the sign.
Where will you see the turn left ahead sign?
Shortly before an intersection, so you can prepare in advance.
What is the common mistake with the turn left ahead sign?
R105 applies at the point you stand; this one is about the junction in front of you. Read the arrow and where you are.
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.