The IT-M-05 sign is a mandatory traffic sign in Italy, meaning you must turn left at the upcoming junction or intersection. It's crucial to position your vehicle in the correct lane well in advance and execute the left turn as indicated. Pay close attention to lane markings, traffic lights, and any supplementary panels, as the instruction is binding until an end sign or a subsequent rule revokes it.
This mandatory Italian road sign dictates that you must turn left at the upcoming junction, with no alternative direction permitted. Proper recognition and adherence to this traffic sign are crucial for navigating Italian roads and passing your theory test revision.
This mandatory sign requires a specific action or route choice rather than merely giving information. It may control direction, lane use, compulsory paths, minimum speed, equipment, customs, tolls, police controls, or routes reserved for certain users. Drivers should match the sign to the correct lane and road layout, then look for markings, panels, and end signs that define how long the instruction remains in force. Official catalogue code: IT-M-05.
The "Left turn only ahead" sign requires the movement, path, lane use, or road-user route shown by the sign. Position early and follow the instruction smoothly. Catalogue code IT-M-05.
Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the IT-M-05 - Left turn only 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 Italian driving theory exam in Italy.
The IT-M-05 sign, officially titled 'Left Turn Only Ahead', is a mandatory direction sign. It strictly requires drivers to make a left turn at the next available opportunity, such as an intersection or junction. You must follow this instruction.
When you see the IT-M-05 sign, check your lane markings and any arrows on the road. You should move to the leftmost lane that allows you to proceed in the direction indicated by the sign. Prepare to make your left turn smoothly and safely.
The primary prohibition when encountering the IT-M-05 sign is proceeding straight ahead or turning right. You must not choose any other movement or route; the left turn is compulsory. Also, do not assume the instruction has ended until you see a sign indicating the end of the mandatory zone.
A common trap is not recognising this as a mandatory sign, meaning you *must* turn left, not just that it's an option. Learners might also miss checking lane markings or additional panels that could modify the instruction. Always follow the sign's clear directive.
If you miss the intended junction, you should continue safely to the next possible legal turning point or follow any subsequent traffic signs. Do not make an illegal U-turn or a dangerous manoeuvre to correct your course. The general rule is to proceed to the next safest option or follow new instructions.
A clear reference image of the IT-M-05 - Left turn only ahead road sign used in Italy.

The IT-M-05 - Left turn only ahead road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.
The IT-M-05 - Left turn only ahead road sign is part of the Italian Mandatory Signs category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.
Reviewing signs like 'Left turn only ahead' alongside others from the mandatory Italian signs category helps solidify your understanding and reduces common theory test errors. Use this sign comparison to improve your traffic sign recognition for a smoother driving licence exam.

The II.85 Minimum Speed sign means you MUST maintain a certain speed.

Understand the II.92-b Combined Pedestrian and Bicycle Path Mandatory Sign

Understand the EU Country Border Sign (II.97-a): Stop and Comply

Mandatory Turn Left: Follow the Arrow, Change Your Lane Accordingly

Mandatory 'Turn Right' Sign (IT-M-03): You Must Go This Way

Mandatory 'Right Turn Only Ahead' Sign (IT-M-04): Your Lane Choice is Restricted.

Mandatory Right or Left Turn Only Ahead: Follow the Arrow!
After reviewing the complete sign list, explore signs by specific categories such as warning, regulatory, or information signs. Understanding signs in context will enhance your recognition and interpretation skills, crucial for the Italian driving theory exam.
All Italian Road Signs List