Control sign · R4.2
One-way roadway sign (R4.2)
Traffic travels in the direction shown by the arrow.
What does the one-way roadway sign mean?
Traffic travels in the direction shown by the arrow.
What should you do?
Travel only in the indicated direction.
| Sign code | R4.2 |
|---|---|
| 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 roadway sign
A one-way arrow sign. In the manual’s order, R4.2 points to a one-way carriageway on the right.
Where you will see it
Junctions where a one-way road joins another road on your right.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Turn in only if you want that carriageway, in the arrow’s direction, once the junction is clear.
- Do not drive the other way along it.
The common mistake
Compare with R3, which forbids entry from the wrong end. Together they tell you both how to join the street and where you may not.
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 roadway sign (R4.2) 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: travel 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 roadway sign with these:
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.
Three-way stop (R1.3)A STOP sign with a small plate showing the number 3 beneath it.Test yourself: One-way roadway sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Traffic travels in the direction shown by the arrow.
- Overtaking other motor vehicles is prohibited for the next 500 metres.
- You must turn right at the junction ahead.
Show the answer
Answer A: Traffic travels in the direction shown by the arrow.
Travel only in the indicated direction.
Memory tip: R4.2 · One-way roadway
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Stay behind the vehicle ahead and obey the road markings.
- Travel only in the indicated direction.
- Prepare to turn, checking mirrors and approaching traffic.
Show the answer
Answer B: Travel only in the indicated direction.
One-way roadway: Traffic travels in the direction shown by the arrow.
Memory tip: Travel only in the indicated direction.
All vehicle codes
One-way roadway sign: quick questions
What does the one-way roadway sign (R4.2) mean?
Traffic travels in the direction shown by the arrow.
What should you do at the one-way roadway sign?
Turn in only if you want that carriageway, in the arrow’s direction, once the junction is clear. Do not drive the other way along it.
Where will you see the one-way roadway sign?
Junctions where a one-way road joins another road on your right.
What is the common mistake with the one-way roadway sign?
Compare with R3, which forbids entry from the wrong end. Together they tell you both how to join the street and where you may not.
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.