Mandatory direction or one-way street?

In lessons I often see learners mix up “One-way street” (a rectangle) and “Mandatory direction of travel” (a circle). That is completely normal while you are learning – nobody learns without getting it wrong first. Below is a simple rule that makes the difference clear fast.

The rule: shape → meaning

CIRCLE = direction, an order
At the junction you MUST travel in the direction of the arrow.

• Arrow to the right → right turn only
• Arrow to the left → left turn only
• Arrow straight ahead → do not turn, drive straight on

RECTANGLE = information about the street
It describes the street – traffic is permitted only in the direction of the arrow (a one-way street). Nobody drives the other way along it.

How to tell them apart in a second

• Look at the shape first – a circle (an order) or a rectangle (information).

Three common mistakes and what to do about them

• “A circle always means a turn.” Not necessarily. If the arrow points straight ahead, the order is not to turn but to carry straight on.
• “A rectangle obliges you to turn.” No. It tells you that this street runs in one direction.
• “I did not notice the sign at the start of the street or at the junction.” Look at the signs on the side street – if you see a rectangular plate, it is probably a one-way street.

Quick answers