What is a Roundabout (Dönel Kavşak) in Turkish Driving?

A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows counter-clockwise around a central island. In Turkish traffic regulations, these are designated as 'Dönel Kavşak'. Unlike traditional intersections, roundabouts eliminate the need for traffic lights in many areas, relying instead on clear right-of-way rules to keep traffic moving continuously and safely.

The Golden Rule of Priority in Turkey

The most critical rule to remember for your Turkish driving theory exam (ehliyet sınavı) is that vehicles already inside the roundabout always have priority. If you are approaching a roundabout, you must yield to any traffic circulating within the circular junction. This is a common focus on the MTSK e-sınav because in real-world Turkish traffic, some drivers mistakenly expect circulating traffic to yield to entering vehicles. To pass your exam and drive safely, you must always yield to the inside.

Correct Lane Discipline and Signaling

Proper lane selection and signaling are vital for safety and are heavily tested on the theory exam. The rules under Turkish law depend on your intended exit:

• Turning Right (First Exit): Approach in the right-hand lane. Signal right before entering, stay on the outer edge, and exit immediately while maintaining your right signal.
• Going Straight (Second Exit): Approach in the middle lane (or right lane if there are only two lanes). Do not signal when entering. Once you pass the first exit, turn on your right signal to indicate you are leaving at the next exit.
• Turning Left or U-Turn (Third or Later Exit): Approach in the left-hand lane. Signal left before entering and move into the inner lane closest to the central island. As you pass the exit prior to the one you want, activate your right signal, check your blind spots, and safely move outward to exit.

Tips for the MTSK E-Sınav and Practical Test

On the Turkish driving theory exam, pay close attention to diagrams showing vehicles at roundabouts. If a question asks which vehicle must wait, the vehicle outside the roundabout looking to enter must always yield to the vehicle already inside. On the practical exam, failing to signal right when exiting a roundabout is a major error that can lead to an immediate failure. Always build the habit of signaling your exit.