Freeway sign · R401
Freeway begins sign (R401)
A dual-carriageway freeway begins here.
What does the freeway begins sign mean?
A dual-carriageway freeway begins here.
What should you do?
Follow freeway restrictions. Do not stop except where legally permitted or in an emergency.
| Sign code | R401 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Freeway signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the freeway begins sign
A blue rectangular sign showing a road with a bridge and a lane marker, announcing that a dual-carriageway freeway begins.
Where you will see it
At the point where freeway rules start.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Follow the freeway rules from here on.
- Keep left except to overtake, do not stop voluntarily except in permitted areas, and do not use hand signals except in an emergency.
The common mistake
A divided road is not automatically a freeway. The sign is what starts the freeway rules, and its “end” sign cancels them.
About freeway signs
Freeway signs tell you about freeway rules, entrances, exits and restrictions that apply on high-speed roads. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the freeway begins sign (R401) 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: freeway signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: follow freeway restrictions. Do not stop except where legally permitted or in an emergency.
- 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 Signals, reservations and freeways.
Test yourself: Freeway begins sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Pedestrians may be on or near the road ahead.
- A vehicle-length restriction applies ahead.
- A dual-carriageway freeway begins here.
Show the answer
Answer C: A dual-carriageway freeway begins here.
Follow freeway restrictions. Do not stop except where legally permitted or in an emergency.
Memory tip: R401 · Freeway begins
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Follow freeway restrictions. Do not stop except where legally permitted or in an emergency.
- Check that your vehicle combination meets the restriction.
- Slow down and leave enough space.
Show the answer
Answer A: Follow freeway restrictions. Do not stop except where legally permitted or in an emergency.
Freeway begins: A dual-carriageway freeway begins here.
Memory tip: Follow freeway restrictions. Do not stop except where legally permitted or in an emergency.
All vehicle codes
Freeway begins sign: quick questions
What does the freeway begins sign (R401) mean?
A dual-carriageway freeway begins here.
What should you do at the freeway begins sign?
Follow the freeway rules from here on. Keep left except to overtake, do not stop voluntarily except in permitted areas, and do not use hand signals except in an emergency.
Where will you see the freeway begins sign?
At the point where freeway rules start.
What is the common mistake with the freeway begins sign?
A divided road is not automatically a freeway. The sign is what starts the freeway rules, and its “end” sign cancels them.
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.