K53 road signs: the categories you must know
Updated 2026-10-31 · Unofficial guide · Always confirm details with gov.za / your DLTC
South African road signs (SADC Road Traffic Signs Manual system) fall into regulatory, warning, guidance and temporary groups, plus road markings and traffic signals. Recognising the shape and colour of each group is the fastest way to score well in the signs section.
Regulatory signs
Tell you what you must or must not do. Subgroups include: control (e.g. STOP, YIELD), command (blue circles — e.g. keep left), prohibition (red-bordered circles — e.g. no entry, speed limit), reservation (lanes or parking reserved for certain users) and comprehensive signs (zones such as a speed-limit zone).
Warning signs
Usually red-bordered triangles warning of hazards ahead — sharp bends, junctions, pedestrians, animals, road narrowing.
Guidance signs
Direction, location, tourism and information signs — e.g. route numbers, freeway signs and destinations.
Temporary signs
Yellow-background versions used at roadworks; they take priority over permanent signs while in place.
Road markings and signals
Markings (e.g. solid white no-overtaking lines, stop lines, yellow edge lines) and traffic signals/flashing lights are tested too. See markings & lights guide.
Practise sign recognition
Our free K53 practice questions include sign images with explanations.
Start with free K53 practice questions (rules of the road, road signs and vehicle controls), then unlock all Code 1, 2 and 3 questions, timed mock exams and mistake review with full access for R149 (English only).
Try free questionsSee full access (R149)
Frequently asked questions
How many sign questions are in the test?
A commonly published figure is 28 for the light vehicle test, with 23 needed to pass. Confirm at your DLTC.
What colour are temporary signs?
Temporary signs use a yellow background.
What does a blue circular sign mean?
Blue circles are command signs — an instruction you must follow.
Official sources
K53 Learners is not affiliated with the Department of Transport, RTMC, NaTIS or any driving licence testing centre. Fees, booking and test rules can change — confirm with official sources or your DLTC.