Control sign · R4.3
One-way direction sign (R4.3)
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?
Read the arrow before entering the roadway.
| Sign code | R4.3 |
|---|---|
| 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, R4.3 points to a one-way carriageway straight ahead.
Where you will see it
At junctions where the road beyond the intersection is one-way for traffic going the same way as you.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Continue ahead only in the direction shown.
- Expect traffic in the lane or lanes to flow the same way, and watch for people crossing.
The common mistake
Straight-ahead one-way is different from a compulsory “proceed straight only” command (R107), which restricts what you may do at the junction.
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 (R4.3) 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: read the arrow before entering the roadway.
- 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 (R4.1)A one-way arrow sign. In the manual’s order, R4.1 points to a one-way carriageway on the left.
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.
- Turning left at this point is prohibited.
- A pedestrian-priority area with entry limited to specified uses.
Show the answer
Answer A: Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
Read the arrow before entering the roadway.
Memory tip: R4.3 · One-way direction
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Continue in a permitted direction rather than turning left.
- Read the arrow before entering the roadway.
- Only permitted emergency, loading and maintenance vehicles may enter; give pedestrians priority and observe the reference 15 km/h limit.
Show the answer
Answer B: Read the arrow before entering the roadway.
One-way direction: Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
Memory tip: Read the arrow before entering the roadway.
All vehicle codes
One-way direction sign: quick questions
What does the one-way direction sign (R4.3) mean?
Traffic may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.
What should you do at the one-way direction sign?
Continue ahead only in the direction shown. Expect traffic in the lane or lanes to flow the same way, and watch for people crossing.
Where will you see the one-way direction sign?
At junctions where the road beyond the intersection is one-way for traffic going the same way as you.
What is the common mistake with the one-way direction sign?
Straight-ahead one-way is different from a compulsory “proceed straight only” command (R107), which restricts what you may do at the junction.
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.