Prohibition sign · R213
No U-turn sign (R213)
You may not turn around to face the opposite direction here.
What does the no u-turn sign mean?
You may not turn around to face the opposite direction here.
What should you do?
Continue to a place where turning around is permitted and safe.
| Sign code | R213 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Prohibition signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the no u-turn sign
A red-bordered disc with a U-shaped arrow crossed out.
Where you will see it
On a public road, either before or on the far side of an intersection.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Do not turn your vehicle round to face the opposite direction here.
- Carry on to a place where turning round is allowed and safe.
The common mistake
A series of left turns that brings you back is a different manoeuvre; this sign forbids the U-turn 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 u-turn sign (R213) 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: continue to a place where turning around is permitted and safe.
- 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 u-turn sign with these:
No left turn ahead (R209)A white disc with a red border showing a left-turn arrow crossed out. This version applies ahead of the junction.
No right turn ahead (R210)A red-bordered disc with a right-turn arrow crossed out, applying to the junction ahead.
No left turn (R211)A red-bordered disc with a left-turn arrow crossed out, applying at the junction where you are.Test yourself: No U-turn sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Cyclists may be on the road ahead.
- A road crosses your route ahead.
- You may not turn around to face the opposite direction here.
Show the answer
Answer C: You may not turn around to face the opposite direction here.
Continue to a place where turning around is permitted and safe.
Memory tip: R213 · No U-turn
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Continue to a place where turning around is permitted and safe.
- Slow down and allow safe space when passing cyclists.
- Look for vehicles entering from either side and observe junction controls.
Show the answer
Answer A: Continue to a place where turning around is permitted and safe.
No U-turn: You may not turn around to face the opposite direction here.
Memory tip: Continue to a place where turning around is permitted and safe.
All vehicle codes
No U-turn sign: quick questions
What does the no u-turn sign (R213) mean?
You may not turn around to face the opposite direction here.
What should you do at the no u-turn sign?
Do not turn your vehicle round to face the opposite direction here. Carry on to a place where turning round is allowed and safe.
Where will you see the no u-turn sign?
On a public road, either before or on the far side of an intersection.
What is the common mistake with the no u-turn sign?
A series of left turns that brings you back is a different manoeuvre; this sign forbids the U-turn 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.