Driving Theory
Icelandic Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

U-Turn Only: Follow the Mandatory Direction!

402.9 - U-Turn Only Icelandic road sign meaning

The U-Turn Only sign (402.9) is a mandatory traffic sign indicating that you must make a U-turn. You are required to follow the direction shown by the sign and any accompanying arrows or markings, rather than choosing your own path. This sign is crucial for maintaining safe and orderly traffic flow, especially in areas with islands, one-way systems, or complex road layouts. Ignoring it can lead to dangerous situations, so always adhere to the indicated manoeuvre.

Interpreting the 'U-Turn Only' Sign (402.9)

This mandatory sign dictates a compulsory U-turn manoeuvre, crucial for traffic order and safety in specific Icelandic road layouts. Understanding its precise meaning is vital for your theory test revision and safe driving practice.

Definition of 402.9

U-Turn Only is a mandatory sign used where traffic has to move in a particular way to stay safe and orderly. It often appears at islands, central refuges, one-way arrangements, path networks, and places where separating traffic streams matters more than driver preference. The sign should be read together with arrows, lane markings, kerbs, and the physical road layout because those details show exactly how the instruction is applied on site. Ignoring a mandatory sign can place you into direct conflict with opposing traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, or a protected part of the road space.

Meaning of 402.9

This sign makes u-turn only compulsory for the road user or lane concerned. You must follow the direction, side, or path shown instead of choosing your own line through the location.

Allowed actions for 402.9

Position early for the compulsory movementFollow the side, path, or lane indicated by the symbolUse mirrors and signals where the manoeuvre requires lane positioningAdapt speed so the mandatory movement can be carried out smoothlyCombine the sign with markings and islands to follow the intended route

Prohibited actions for 402.9

Choosing a different direction where the sign makes one movement compulsoryDriving on the wrong side of an obstruction or refugeEntering a path or route reserved for another user groupSwerving late across lanes to recover a missed mandatory movementIgnoring the symbol because the road seems wide enough to improvise

402.9 - U-Turn Only road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the 402.9 - U-Turn Only 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 Icelandic driving theory exam in Iceland.

What does the U-Turn Only sign (402.9) mean in Iceland?

The U-Turn Only sign (402.9) mandates that you must perform a U-turn. It indicates a compulsory direction or path that you must follow. This sign ensures traffic moves safely and predictably through specific areas like central refuges or complex junctions.

What actions are prohibited when I see the 402.9 sign?

When you see the U-Turn Only sign (402.9), you are prohibited from choosing any other direction, driving on the wrong side of an obstruction, or entering a reserved path. Swerving late across lanes to recover a missed U-turn or improvising when the sign clearly dictates a specific manoeuvre is also forbidden.

How should I react to the U-Turn Only sign?

You must position your vehicle early to safely execute the U-turn as indicated by the sign and any lane markings. Use your mirrors and signals appropriately for the manoeuvre, and adapt your speed to complete the turn smoothly and without conflict with other traffic.

Is there anything I should be careful about regarding the 402.9 sign in theory exams?

A common exam trap is assuming you can choose your direction if the road seems wide enough. The 402.9 sign is mandatory; it overrides any personal assessment of the road layout. Always follow the sign's instruction precisely, combining it with physical road features like islands or markings.

Where might I typically encounter the U-Turn Only sign?

You'll often find the U-Turn Only sign (402.9) at traffic islands, central refuges, the start or end of one-way roads, or in areas where separating traffic streams is vital for safety and order. It ensures drivers follow the intended route through these potentially complex points.

402.9 - U-Turn Only road sign image

A clear reference image of the 402.9 - U-Turn Only road sign used in Iceland.

402.9 - U-Turn Only road sign

Other names for the 402.9 - U-Turn Only

The 402.9 - U-Turn Only road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

U-Turn OnlyDirection Signs402.9Akstursstefnumerki

Mandatory Direction Signs road sign category

The 402.9 - U-Turn Only road sign is part of the Mandatory Direction Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Reinforce Your Road Sign Knowledge

Reviewing adjacent or similar Icelandic road signs helps solidify your understanding and reduces confusion during your theory test revision. Comparing signs like this 'U-Turn Only' sign with others in its category improves sign recognition and exam preparation, ensuring you master traffic sign comparison.

402.2 - Turn Left Only road sign

Turn Left Only

You MUST turn left when you see this compulsory direction sign.

Mandatory Direction Signs402.2
402.3 - Straight Ahead Only road sign

Straight Ahead Only

Understand the 'Straight Ahead Only' Mandatory Direction Sign (402.3)

Mandatory Direction Signs402.3
402.4 - Turn Right Only road sign

Turn Right Only

Understand the 'Turn Right Only' Mandatory Direction Sign (402.4)

Mandatory Direction Signs402.4
402.5 - Turn Left Ahead Only road sign

Turn Left Ahead Only

Mandatory Turn Left Ahead Only Traffic Sign Explained

Mandatory Direction Signs402.5
402.6 - Straight Ahead or Turn Right road sign

Straight Ahead or Turn Right

Mandatory Movement: Follow the Arrow or Go Straight Ahead!

Mandatory Direction Signs402.6
402.7 - Straight Ahead or Turn Left road sign

Straight Ahead or Turn Left

Mandatory Traffic Direction: Straight Ahead or Turn Left

Mandatory Direction Signs402.7
402.8 - Pass Either Side road sign

Pass Either Side

Understand the Mandatory 'Pass Either Side' Traffic Sign (402.8)

Mandatory Direction Signs402.8
404.1 - Pass Obstruction on the Right road sign

Pass Obstruction on the Right

Understand the 'Pass Obstruction on the Right' Mandatory Traffic Sign

Mandatory Direction Signs404.1
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Dive into Icelandic road sign knowledge

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