Prohibition sign · R209
No left turn ahead sign (R209)
A left turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
What does the no left turn ahead sign mean?
A left turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
What should you do?
Choose another permitted direction at the junction.
| Sign code | R209 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Prohibition signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the no left turn ahead sign
A white disc with a red border showing a left-turn arrow crossed out. This version applies ahead of the junction.
Where you will see it
On a public road before an intersection, so you can plan another route.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Do not turn left at the intersection ahead.
- Go straight or choose another permitted direction.
The common mistake
R209/R210 look ahead; R211/R212 apply at the junction itself.
About prohibition signs
Prohibition signs show what you may not do, such as overtaking, parking or turning. They are red-ringed circles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the no left turn ahead sign (R209) 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: prohibition signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: choose another permitted direction at the junction.
- 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 Prohibition signs and restricted movements.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the no left turn ahead sign with these:
No left turn (R211)A red-bordered disc with a left-turn arrow crossed out, applying at the junction where you are.
No right turn ahead (R210)A red-bordered disc with a right-turn arrow crossed out, applying to the junction ahead.
No right turn (R212)A red-bordered disc with a right-turn arrow crossed out, applying at the junction where you are.Test yourself: No left turn ahead sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Vehicles may not enter from this direction.
- A left turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
- The road curves ahead in the direction shown.
Show the answer
Answer B: A left turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
Choose another permitted direction at the junction.
Memory tip: R209 · No left turn ahead
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Find a permitted route. This sign applies even when the road appears empty.
- Choose another permitted direction at the junction.
- Adjust speed before the curve.
Show the answer
Answer B: Choose another permitted direction at the junction.
No left turn ahead: A left turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
Memory tip: Choose another permitted direction at the junction.
All vehicle codes
No left turn ahead sign: quick questions
What does the no left turn ahead sign (R209) mean?
A left turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
What should you do at the no left turn ahead sign?
Do not turn left at the intersection ahead. Go straight or choose another permitted direction.
Where will you see the no left turn ahead sign?
On a public road before an intersection, so you can plan another route.
What is the common mistake with the no left turn ahead sign?
R209/R210 look ahead; R211/R212 apply at the junction itself.
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.