Control sign · R4.1
One-way direction sign (R4.1)
Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
What does the one-way direction sign mean?
Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
What should you do?
Use this roadway only in the indicated direction.
| Sign code | R4.1 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Control signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the one-way direction sign
A one-way arrow sign. In the manual’s order, R4.1 points to a one-way carriageway on the left.
Where you will see it
Where a one-way road meets another road, at the junction itself, so you know which side the one-way lane lies on.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Use that carriageway only if your route needs it, and drive in the direction of the arrow.
- Check the junction as normal before you turn.
The common mistake
R4.1, R4.2 and R4.3 are the same instruction in three directions. Read the arrow itself rather than relying on the number.
About control signs
Control signs tell you how to enter, cross or use part of the road, for example by stopping or giving way. They are mostly red and white. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the one-way direction sign (R4.1) 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: control signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: use this roadway only in the indicated direction.
- 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 Stop and yield signs.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the one-way direction sign with these:
One-way direction (R4.3)A one-way arrow sign. In the manual’s order, R4.3 points to a one-way carriageway straight ahead.
Stop (R1)A red octagon with white STOP lettering. No other road sign has eight sides, so it can be recognised even when dirt hides the…
Stop with left-turn yield (R1.2)A STOP sign mounted above a small yield triangle that contains a left-turn arrow.Test yourself: One-way direction sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
- A right turn is prohibited at the junction ahead.
- Yield at the controlled traffic circle or mini circle.
Show the answer
Answer A: Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
Use this roadway only in the indicated direction.
Memory tip: R4.1 · One-way direction
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Plan a route that does not use the prohibited turn.
- Yield to vehicles already in the circle and those reaching their yield line before you reach yours. Stop when needed.
- Use this roadway only in the indicated direction.
Show the answer
Answer C: Use this roadway only in the indicated direction.
One-way direction: Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
Memory tip: Use this roadway only in the indicated direction.
All vehicle codes
One-way direction sign: quick questions
What does the one-way direction sign (R4.1) mean?
Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
What should you do at the one-way direction sign?
Use that carriageway only if your route needs it, and drive in the direction of the arrow. Check the junction as normal before you turn.
Where will you see the one-way direction sign?
Where a one-way road meets another road, at the junction itself, so you know which side the one-way lane lies on.
What is the common mistake with the one-way direction sign?
R4.1, R4.2 and R4.3 are the same instruction in three directions. Read the arrow itself rather than relying on the number.
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.