Command sign · R109
Turn right ahead sign (R109)
You must turn right at the junction ahead.
What does the turn right ahead sign mean?
You must turn right at the junction ahead.
What should you do?
Prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching traffic.
| Sign code | R109 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Command signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the turn right ahead sign
A blue circle with a white arrow that turns right, for the junction ahead.
Where you will see it
Ahead of an intersection, giving you time to position yourself.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Use the right-hand lane early, signal, check opposing traffic and pedestrians and turn at the junction when safe.
The common mistake
Do not turn at the sign itself or cut across painted islands to reach the turn.
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 right ahead sign (R109) 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: prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching 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 turn right ahead sign with these:
Turn right (R106)A blue circle with a white arrow pointing right, in the same group as “proceed right only”.
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.Test yourself: Turn right ahead sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Your road ends at a T-junction ahead.
- You must turn right at the junction ahead.
- You may not exceed 80 km/h.
Show the answer
Answer B: You must turn right at the junction ahead.
Prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching traffic.
Memory tip: R109 · Turn right ahead
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- The posted limit is a ceiling, not a target.
- Reduce speed and prepare to turn left or right.
- Prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching traffic.
Show the answer
Answer C: Prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching traffic.
Turn right ahead: You must turn right at the junction ahead.
Memory tip: Prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching traffic.
All vehicle codes
Turn right ahead sign: quick questions
What does the turn right ahead sign (R109) mean?
You must turn right at the junction ahead.
What should you do at the turn right ahead sign?
Use the right-hand lane early, signal, check opposing traffic and pedestrians and turn at the junction when safe.
Where will you see the turn right ahead sign?
Ahead of an intersection, giving you time to position yourself.
What is the common mistake with the turn right ahead sign?
Do not turn at the sign itself or cut across painted islands to reach the turn.
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.