Warning sign · W212
Two-way traffic sign (W212)
Oncoming traffic uses the road ahead.
What does the two-way traffic sign mean?
Oncoming traffic uses the road ahead.
What should you do?
Keep left and be alert for vehicles approaching in the opposite direction.
| Sign code | W212 |
|---|---|
| Sign group | Warning signs |
| Applies to | All learner codes (1, 2 and 3) |
| Test section | Road signs and markings |
How to recognise the two-way traffic sign
A triangle showing two opposing arrows to show traffic travelling both ways.
Where you will see it
On a one-way road, before it turns into a two-way road.
What to do when you see it, step by step
- Keep to the left, take more care when overtaking and expect vehicles coming towards you.
The common mistake
It warns of a change in the road layout; it is not about a speed or a junction.
About warning signs
Warning signs tell you about a hazard ahead so you can slow down and prepare. They are red-bordered triangles. The K53 learner's test asks you to recognise signs like the two-way traffic sign (W212) 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: warning signs for this one.
- Recall what the sign asks of you: keep left and be alert for vehicles approaching in the opposite 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 Warning signs and temporary road controls.
Signs it is often confused with
Learners mix up signs that look or sound similar. Compare the two-way traffic sign with these:
Traffic signals ahead (W301)A triangle showing a traffic light.
Crossroad ahead (W101)A triangle with a plain cross showing a road crossing yours.
T-junction ahead (W104)A triangle showing your road ending against a road that runs across it.Test yourself: Two-way traffic sign questions
1 What does this sign mean?
- A narrow bridge lies ahead.
- The road surface may have reduced grip.
- Oncoming traffic uses the road ahead.
Show the answer
Answer C: Oncoming traffic uses the road ahead.
Keep left and be alert for vehicles approaching in the opposite direction.
Memory tip: W212 · Two-way traffic
All vehicle codes
2 Which response fits this sign?
- Reduce speed, check oncoming traffic and obey priority controls.
- Reduce speed and steer and brake smoothly.
- Keep left and be alert for vehicles approaching in the opposite direction.
Show the answer
Answer C: Keep left and be alert for vehicles approaching in the opposite direction.
Two-way traffic: Oncoming traffic uses the road ahead.
Memory tip: Keep left and be alert for vehicles approaching in the opposite direction.
All vehicle codes
Two-way traffic sign: quick questions
What does the two-way traffic sign (W212) mean?
Oncoming traffic uses the road ahead.
What should you do at the two-way traffic sign?
Keep to the left, take more care when overtaking and expect vehicles coming towards you.
Where will you see the two-way traffic sign?
On a one-way road, before it turns into a two-way road.
What is the common mistake with the two-way traffic sign?
It warns of a change in the road layout; it is not about a speed or a 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.