The B21a road sign, meaning 'Keep Right', is a mandatory instruction sign used in France. It tells you that you must direct your travel to the right side of the road or traffic feature. This sign group consists of signs that tell road users what they absolutely must do, so ignoring this instruction is not an option. You'll typically see it at obstructions, diverging traffic streams, or the start of mandatory lanes.
This mandatory sign, B21a, directs you to stay on the right side of the road or traffic flow. Mastering its meaning is crucial for correct driving theory revision and passing your French driving test.
Mandatory signs tell road users what they must do rather than what they must avoid. This sign can control direction of travel, required lanes, special routes for buses or trams, pedestrian or cycle facilities, snow chains, or minimum speed. A learner should read the sign early, confirm whether it applies to their vehicle, and follow the required movement smoothly. Official French sign code: B21a.
"Keep right" gives a positive instruction that the driver or named road user must follow. It may require a direction, lane, path, minimum speed, equipment, or reserved route.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the B21a - Keep right 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 French driving theory exam in France.
The B21a sign is a clear, positive instruction that you must keep to the right. This applies to your direction of travel, a specific lane, or a particular path. It's a rule you must follow, not a suggestion.
You must adjust your driving to ensure you are on the right side as indicated by the sign. This might involve steering into the right lane, passing an obstruction on the right, or following a designated rightward path. Always check your mirrors and signal if changing lanes or direction.
Yes, you are prohibited from choosing a different direction or path than what the sign mandates. You must not enter a lane or path that is specifically directed to the right if it's not meant for your type of vehicle. Ignoring the instruction or making a sudden manoeuvre after seeing the sign late is also prohibited.
No, the B21a 'Keep Right' sign is a mandatory instruction. It explicitly tells you that you must follow the rightward direction or path. Choosing to go left when this sign is displayed would be a violation of traffic law and a common mistake in the theory exam.
A common trap is confusing this mandatory sign with an informational sign. Learners might also misinterpret when the obligation starts, often assuming it's further ahead than it actually is. Always be prepared to follow the instruction from the sign itself or from road markings that reinforce it.
A clear reference image of the B21a - Keep right road sign used in France.

The B21a - Keep right road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The B21a - Keep right road sign is part of the France Mandatory Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing signs like 'Keep Right' with other mandatory directives sharpens your ability to distinguish subtle differences, crucial for accurate theory test revision. Practicing traffic sign comparison aids memory and prevents mistakes when encountering similar road signs in real driving situations.

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Now that you've reviewed the full list of French road signs, enhance your understanding. Explore signs grouped by specific categories for deeper insights, test your recognition with practice questions, and solidify your knowledge for the Code de la route exam.
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