U-turnChina
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of China. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
43. U-turn
A U-turn is a driving manoeuvre in which a vehicle turns around to travel in the opposite direction. It normally involves crossing part of the roadway and re-entering traffic facing the direction from which the vehicle came.
Before making a U-turn, the driver should check surrounding traffic, pedestrians and cyclists, signal when required and make sure there is enough visibility and space to complete the manoeuvre safely. U-turns may be prohibited by traffic signs or on particular types of roads.
Wikimedia.org • 川号子 • CC BY
Does a Chinese No Left Turn sign restrict U-turns?
Yes. U-turns are prohibited where signs or markings prohibit left turns or U-turns.
🔗 xzfg.moj.gov.cn • Mainland China — Regulation 49; no-left-turn also prohibits U-turn
🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Beijing Traffic Police — full Road Traffic Safety Law, 2021 amended text
🔗 samr.gov.cn • SAMR — full implementing Regulations, 2017 amended text
Can you U-turn on Chinese pedestrian crossings?
No. U-turns are prohibited there.
🔗 xzfg.moj.gov.cn • Mainland China — Regulation 49; no-left-turn also prohibits U-turn
🔗 jtgl.beijing.gov.cn • Beijing Traffic Police — full Road Traffic Safety Law, 2021 amended text
🔗 samr.gov.cn • SAMR — full implementing Regulations, 2017 amended text

Traffic rules
China