Control sign · R6
Yield to oncoming traffic sign (R6)
Oncoming traffic has priority through the narrow section.
What does the yield to oncoming traffic sign mean?
Oncoming traffic has priority through the narrow section.
What should you do?
Wait before the narrow section until oncoming vehicles have passed.
| Sign code | R6 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Control signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the yield to oncoming traffic sign
A red-bordered circle with two vertical arrows: one red and one black. The red arrow marks the direction that must give way; the black arrow the direction with priority.
Where you will see it
The entrance to a narrow single carriageway section used by traffic from both directions.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Stop or hold back before the narrow part if oncoming traffic is already in it or about to enter it.
- Go only when you can pass through without meeting another vehicle in the gap.
The common mistake
It is not a one-way sign, and it is not a speed or width limit. The question it answers is simply who goes first through a shared single lane.
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 yield to oncoming traffic sign (R6) 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: wait before the narrow section until oncoming vehicles have passed.
- 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 yield to oncoming traffic sign with these:
Yield at traffic circle (R2.2)A yield triangle containing black arrows chasing each other in a circle.
Stop with left-turn yield (R1.2)A STOP sign mounted above a small yield triangle that contains a left-turn arrow.
Yield (R2)A triangle pointing downwards with a red border and a plain white centre.Test yourself: Yield to oncoming traffic sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- Oncoming traffic has priority through the narrow section.
- Heavy vehicles may not overtake other heavy vehicles for the next 500 metres.
- This route is for pedestrians.
Show the answer
Answer A: Oncoming traffic has priority through the narrow section.
Wait before the narrow section until oncoming vehicles have passed.
Memory tip: R6 · Yield to oncoming traffic
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Do not enter with a motor vehicle.
- Wait before the narrow section until oncoming vehicles have passed.
- If the restriction applies to your vehicle, remain behind the heavy vehicle ahead.
Show the answer
Answer B: Wait before the narrow section until oncoming vehicles have passed.
Yield to oncoming traffic: Oncoming traffic has priority through the narrow section.
Memory tip: Wait before the narrow section until oncoming vehicles have passed.
All vehicle codes
Yield to oncoming traffic sign: quick questions
What does the yield to oncoming traffic sign (R6) mean?
Oncoming traffic has priority through the narrow section.
What should you do at the yield to oncoming traffic sign?
Stop or hold back before the narrow part if oncoming traffic is already in it or about to enter it. Go only when you can pass through without meeting another vehicle in the gap.
Where will you see the yield to oncoming traffic sign?
The entrance to a narrow single carriageway section used by traffic from both directions.
What is the common mistake with the yield to oncoming traffic sign?
It is not a one-way sign, and it is not a speed or width limit. The question it answers is simply who goes first through a shared single lane.
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.