Driving Theory
British Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Understand the 'Give Way to Major Road Traffic' sign (602-WLS) and its rules in Great Britain.

602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) British road sign meaning

This regulatory traffic sign, code 602-WLS, is a binding instruction that requires you to yield to traffic on the major road ahead. You must understand who the instruction applies to and where it starts, often indicated by road markings or a stop line, before proceeding. Always comply with the sign's instruction before entering the controlled area or making a controlled movement to ensure safety and pass your theory test.

Interpreting the Give Way to Major Road Sign (602-WLS)

This key regulatory sign (602-WLS) requires understanding who to give way to at junctions. Proper interpretation is vital for safe driving and passing your theory test, so learn its specific meaning and application in Great Britain.

Definition of 602-WLS

This regulatory sign is part of the legal control of the road. It may require a driver to stop, give way, keep to a direction, avoid a movement, stay out of a restricted area, or respect a vehicle-specific rule. In practice, the sign should be read with the stop line, lane markings, road layout, and any supplementary plates so the instruction is obeyed before the controlled point. It is listed in the catalogue as code 602-WLS.

Meaning of 602-WLS

"Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language)" gives a binding instruction, restriction, or prohibition. The driver must understand who it applies to, where it starts, and whether any exception is shown before continuing.

Allowed actions for 602-WLS

Comply before entering the controlled area or making the controlled movement.Choose another legal route if the sign prevents your intended movement.Stop, wait, or give way where the sign requires it.Check supplementary plates for times, vehicle classes, and exceptions before proceeding.

Prohibited actions for 602-WLS

Do not pass the sign or road marking in a way the sign forbids.Do not treat a mandatory instruction as advisory.Do not rely on another driver ignoring the sign as permission to follow.Do not assume an exemption applies unless your vehicle, time, or purpose is clearly included.

602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the British driving theory exam in Great Britain.

What does the 602-WLS 'Give Way to Major Road Traffic' sign mean?

The 602-WLS sign means you must give way to any traffic already on the major road you are approaching. You must wait until it is safe to proceed without causing any obstruction or danger to those on the main road.

When should I act on the 602-WLS sign?

You should act on the 602-WLS sign before you reach the junction or controlled point. This often coincides with a stop line or specific lane markings. Check for any supplementary plates that might indicate exceptions for specific times or vehicle types.

What are common mistakes learners make with the 602-WLS sign?

A common mistake is not waiting long enough for traffic on the major road to pass, or assuming that because another driver has gone, it's safe for you to follow. You must always make your own judgement based on the traffic conditions and your obligation to give way.

Do I always have to stop at a 602-WLS sign?

The 602-WLS sign itself doesn't always mean you must stop, but it dictates that you must give way. If there is traffic on the major road, you must stop or slow down to let them pass. You only proceed when it is safe to do so and you can do so without impeding them.

Does the 602-WLS sign apply everywhere in Great Britain?

Yes, the 602-WLS sign is a standard regulatory sign used across England, Scotland, and Wales, indicating a mandatory requirement to give way to traffic on a major road. Always adhere to its instructions regardless of your location within Great Britain.

602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign image

A clear reference image of the 602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign used in Great Britain.

602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign

Other names for the 602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language)

The 602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Give way to traffic on the major road English and Welsh Language602-WLS regulatory signGreat Britain regulatory signregulatory signs

Great Britain Regulatory Signs road sign category

The 602-WLS - Give way to traffic on the major road (English and Welsh Language) road sign is part of the Great Britain Regulatory Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Understanding with Similar Road Signs

Mastering road signs involves recognising subtle differences. Reviewing similar traffic signs helps cement your knowledge and improve your sign recognition for the theory test revision.

601.1 - Stop at major road road sign

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Ready to Test Your Knowledge on Great Britain Road Signs?

After reviewing the full list of road signs, challenge yourself with practice questions focused specifically on sign recognition. Reinforce your learning and ensure you're fully prepared to identify and understand all traffic signs on the DVSA theory test.

Browse All GB Road Signs List
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