The B21c 'Turn Right Ahead' sign is a mandatory instruction, meaning you must turn right at the upcoming junction. Unlike warning signs, this sign dictates a required action for specific road users. It's crucial to read these signs early, understand if they apply to your vehicle category, and execute the manoeuvre smoothly and safely, usually after checking mirrors and signalling.
This French mandatory sign, B21c, instructs drivers to turn right ahead. Mastering its meaning is crucial for accurate traffic sign explanation and passing your theory test revision.
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: B21c.
"Turn right ahead" 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 B21c - Turn right ahead 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 B21c sign is a command, meaning you are legally required to turn right at the junction ahead. It's not a suggestion; it's an instruction that must be followed by the relevant road users from the point indicated by road markings or the sign itself.
Upon seeing the B21c sign, you must prepare to turn right. This involves checking your mirrors, signalling your intention to turn right, and executing the turn when safe to do so. You should not proceed straight or turn left if this sign is displayed and applicable to you.
Generally, no. Mandatory signs like the B21c leave no room for interpretation regarding direction. If you cannot or do not wish to turn right, you should not proceed past the sign but look for an alternative route beforehand. The sign might specify it only applies to certain vehicle types, but if it applies to your car, you must comply.
A common trap is confusing mandatory signs like B21c with information signs that merely suggest a route. Learners might incorrectly assume they have a choice or that the sign is just advisory. Always remember that mandatory signs require a specific action, and failing to comply is a serious offence on the road and in the exam.
If the B21c sign is accompanied by a symbol indicating a specific road user (e.g., a bus symbol), the instruction to turn right only applies to that category of vehicle. If you are driving a different type of vehicle (like a car) and no car symbol is present, this specific sign's instruction does not apply to you, and you can proceed normally.
A clear reference image of the B21c - Turn right ahead road sign used in France.

The B21c - Turn right ahead road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The B21c - Turn right ahead road sign is part of the France Mandatory Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Comparing 'Turn right ahead' with other directional or mandatory signs reinforces your understanding and reduces confusion for the French theory test. Effective traffic sign comparison is key to mastering the visual language of the road and ensuring accurate recall during your exam.

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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: B21c.
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: B21b.
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.
Browse All French Road Signs