K53
K53 hand signals: when and how to use them
The K53 requires drivers to know hand signals and use them when indicators are unreadable. Here's each signal, what it means, and when the examiner might test you on it.
Hand signals are a tested component of the K53 learner's licence theory exam and sometimes feature in the road test scenario when the examiner asks what you would do if your indicators failed.
When hand signals are required
Under South African road law, a driver must use hand signals when:
- The vehicle's indicators are not visible or not working
- Conditions make the indicator signal unclear to other road users
In practice, the K53 tests that you know the hand signals. In the road test, you'll almost always use your indicators. But in the theory test, hand signal questions appear regularly.
The four signals
Turn right Extend your right arm horizontally out of the driver's window, palm facing forward. Hold it until you begin the turn.
Turn left Extend your right arm out of the window and rotate it in a forward circular motion. The circular action distinguishes it from the right-turn signal.
Slow down or stop Right arm extended out the window, forearm pointing downward at roughly 45 degrees, palm facing rearward. Move it slowly up and down.
Invitation to pass (overtake) Right arm extended horizontally, waved forward -- you're signalling to the vehicle behind that it is safe to overtake you.
Why the right arm?
South Africa drives on the left side of the road, so the driver sits on the right. The right arm is on the road-traffic side and visible to following drivers.
In the theory test
Expect one or two questions from the road signs and rules section that show an image of a hand signal and ask what it means, or describe a situation and ask which signal applies.
Quick reference
| Action | Signal |
|---|---|
| Turn right | Right arm horizontal, palm forward |
| Turn left | Right arm, forward circular motion |
| Slow / stop | Right arm down, palm back, move up-down |
| Invite overtake | Right arm forward wave |
Step-by-step
1. Turn right
Extend the right arm horizontally out of the window, palm facing forward. Keep it steady until you begin the turn.
2. Turn left
Extend the right arm out of the window and rotate it in a forward circular motion (clockwise). This indicates a left turn.
3. Slow down or stop
Extend the right arm out of the window with the forearm pointing downward, palm facing the rear. Move the arm up and down slowly.
4. Invitation to overtake
Extend the right arm out of the window and wave it forward -- this tells the following driver it is safe to pass.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the left-turn signal (circular motion) with a right-turn signal
- Not knowing that hand signals are mandatory when indicators are not visible
- Using the left arm -- K53 specifies the right arm for all signals from a left-hand-drive perspective (right-hand traffic)
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