Give waySouth Africa

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of South Africa. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


9. Give way

A give-way sign requires drivers to allow traffic with priority to proceed before entering, crossing or joining a road. Drivers must reduce speed, observe approaching traffic and stop when necessary.

Unlike a stop sign, a give-way sign does not always require a complete stop. The driver may continue without stopping only when the route is clearly safe and no road user with priority is forced to change speed or direction.

Give way
A give way sign. (Cape Town, South Africa)
Wikimedia.org • Matti Blume • CC BY-SA
What does giving way mean in South Africa?

South African signs distinguish Yield from Stop. Slow down and let the traffic or other road users covered by the control pass before proceeding safely.

🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — give-way

Must you always stop when giving way in South Africa?

No. A give-way control requires stopping when necessary to yield or obtain a safe view. A stop sign requires a complete stop even if the road appears empty.

🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — give-way

What should you check before proceeding after giving way in South Africa?

Wait until the manoeuvre is safe. Check the priority traffic, the view in both directions and enough space to complete the entry. Giving way to one vehicle does not remove duties towards another driver, a cyclist or a pedestrian.

🔗 transport.gov.za • South Africa, Department of Transport, SARTSM — give-way

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