One-Way Road Sign: Meaning and Rules

A one-way roadway sign means traffic may travel in one direction only, the direction the arrow points. It is a blue rectangular sign with a white arrow, used on South African roads and tested in the K53 learner's test.

What does a one-way road sign mean?

A one-way roadway sign is a regulatory sign that shows traffic may move in one direction only. The white arrow points the way you must travel. You may not drive, reverse or turn against the arrow.

What are the rules on a one-way road?

• Follow the arrow: drive only in the direction the arrow points.
• No reversing against the flow: you may not reverse or turn to face oncoming traffic.
• No U-turns: unless a sign allows it.
• You may pass on either side: because all traffic moves the same way, you may overtake on the left or right when it is safe.

How do you know a road is one-way?

• A one-way roadway sign at the entrance, with the arrow showing the direction.
• A no-entry sign at the opposite (exit) end.
• All lane arrows painted on the road point the same way.

The one-way roadway sign is a regulatory sign. Browse all regulatory signs or the full K53 road signs guide, and revise the rules of the road.

One-way road sign FAQ

What does a one-way road sign mean?
It means traffic may travel in one direction only, in the direction the white arrow points.

What colour is the one-way roadway sign?
It is a blue rectangular sign with a white arrow.

Can you overtake on a one-way road?
Yes. Because all traffic moves in the same direction, you may pass on either side when it is safe.

Practise one-way road and other road-sign questions with our free K53 practice tests.