Turn prohibitionPoland

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Poland. 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.


33. Turn prohibition

A turn prohibition prevents drivers from turning in the direction indicated by a traffic sign. It may prohibit a left turn, a right turn or a U-turn at an intersection or along a specified section of road.

Drivers must continue along a permitted route and follow any lane arrows or mandatory-direction signs. A turn prohibition does not itself determine priority or speed, and any exemption for cyclists, public transport or other road users must be expressly indicated.

Turn prohibition
Turn-prohibition sign at Dolina Służewiecka and Nowoursynowska Street. (Warsaw, Poland)
Wikimedia.org • Panek • CC BY-SA
What does a no-turn sign prohibit in Poland?

It prohibits the left, right or other turn shown at the junction or position controlled by the sign in Poland. Follow any supplementary panel or authorised direction and choose another legal route.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Road Traffic Law — articles 5, 22–23; Signs 2, 22–24, 35–42

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, traffic signs and signals — 2019/2310 consolidation, read with subsequent amendments

Does a no-left-turn sign always prohibit a U-turn in Poland?

Yes. Polish Signs Section 22 expressly makes B21, the no-left-turn sign, prohibit a U-turn as well. At a junction it applies at the nearest junction, and, where installed within it, to the nearest carriageway. Separate U-turn bans and other manoeuvring restrictions can also apply; do not assume that the absence of B23 makes a U-turn lawful.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Road Traffic Law — articles 5, 22–23; Signs 2, 22–24, 35–42

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, traffic signs and signals — 2019/2310 consolidation, read with subsequent amendments

Can a no-turn restriction apply only to certain vehicles or hours in Poland?

Yes, where the local sign system provides a supplementary condition or exemption, such as a vehicle class, time or authorised access. Without a valid exception, comply with the prohibited movement shown.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Road Traffic Law — articles 5, 22–23; Signs 2, 22–24, 35–42

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, traffic signs and signals — 2019/2310 consolidation, read with subsequent amendments

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