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1. Turkey
Turkey spans southeastern Europe and western Asia, with the Bosporus and Dardanelles separating its European region of Thrace from Anatolia. Traffic drives on the right. Driving conditions vary greatly across the country, from dense traffic and major bridges and tunnels around Istanbul to long divided highways across the Anatolian plateau, Mediterranean and Aegean coastal roads, and steep mountain routes in the north and east. Turkish is the official language and is normally used for written information on road signs; it uses the Latin alphabet, while most regulatory and warning signs rely on internationally recognisable symbols.
Turkey has no nationwide motorway vignette. Instead, tolls are charged on particular motorways, bridges and tunnels, with the HGS electronic toll system playing a central role, including for foreign-registered vehicles. Speed limits are also distinctive: ordinary cars are generally limited to 90 km/h on two-way interurban roads and 110 km/h on divided roads, while motorway limits can be 130 or 140 km/h depending on the motorway operator. Winter conditions vary considerably by region; the national winter-tyre obligation primarily targets commercial passenger and goods vehicles, with additional requirements possible locally.
AI-generated by Traffic-rules.com • WCIT • CC BY-SA
What is the alcohol limit for driving in Turkey?
For drivers of private passenger cars, the legal blood-alcohol limit is 0.50‰. Drivers of other vehicle types are generally subject to a lower limit of 0.20‰. Impairment and other legal circumstances can also lead to penalties; the safest approach is not to drink alcohol before driving.
What speed limits apply to passenger cars in Turkey?
Built-up areas: For an ordinary passenger car, the general maximum in a built-up area is 50 km/h, unless another limit is indicated.
Outside built-up areas: For an ordinary passenger car, the general maximum on an interurban two-way road is 90 km/h, unless signs indicate otherwise.
Divided roads: For an ordinary passenger car, the general maximum on a divided road is 110 km/h, unless another limit is posted.
Motorways: For ordinary passenger cars, the maximum is generally 130 km/h on motorways operated by KGM and up to 140 km/h on motorways operated under the build-operate-transfer model. Always follow the posted limit, because lower limits can apply on individual sections.
Are seat belts compulsory in Turkey?
Yes. Drivers and passengers must use seat belts and other required restraint systems in vehicles and seats to which the requirement applies.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Turkey, current Road Traffic Regulations, Article 150, belts and child restraints
Can you use a mobile phone while driving in Turkey?
Using a mobile or vehicle telephone or a similar communication device while the vehicle is moving is prohibited. Drivers should not handle or operate a phone while driving.
When must children use a child seat in Turkey?
Children shorter than 150 cm and weighing less than 36 kg normally need an appropriate child restraint. Children taller than 135 cm may use an ordinary seat belt in a rear seat under the specified exception. Check that the seat and restraint suit the child.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Turkey, current Road Traffic Regulations, Article 150, belts and child restraints
Do pedestrians have priority at crossings in Turkey?
Yes. At signed pedestrian and school crossings without traffic lights or an officer controlling traffic, drivers must slow down and stop to give priority to pedestrians who are crossing or about to cross.
2. Motorway
A motorway is a road specially designed and signposted for motor traffic. Motorways normally have separate carriageways for opposing traffic, controlled access through designated entrances and exits, no direct access to neighbouring properties, and no level crossings with other roads, railways or paths.
Special traffic rules apply on motorways. The permitted road users, speed limits, lane rules, tolls and emergency procedures vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • 35_egeturk • CC BY-SA
How do people refer to a motorway in Turkey?
The official Turkish term used by the highway authority is otoyol. Motorway toll arrangements are managed separately from ordinary-road travel.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM car speed table and controlled-access rules
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official HGS information
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — foreign-number-plate toll obligations
Start of a motorway.
English • Traffic sign B-18 • Motorway begins — restrictions. Pedestrians, animals, non-motorised vehicles, bicycles, rubber-tyred tractors and unauthorised work machinery must not enter.
Türkçe • B-18 • Otoyol başlangıcı ve yasakları. Otoyola giriyorsunuz. Yayalar, hayvanlar, motorsuz araçlar, bisikletler, lastik tekerlekli traktörler ve izinsiz iş makineleri giremez.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • B-18<
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • otoyol kısıtlamaları
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • araç türlerine ilişkin koşullar
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-03-17. Wikimedia original unmodified.
End of the motorway.
English • Traffic sign B-19 • End of motorway. The motorway ends here.
Türkçe • B-19 • Otoyol sonu. Otoyol burada sona erer.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • B-19<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • Public domain • Original revision 2021-03-17. Wikimedia original unmodified.
What speed limit applies to cars on a motorway in Turkey?
For ordinary passenger cars, limits are generally 130 km/h on KGM-operated motorways and up to 140 km/h on motorways operated under the build-operate-transfer model. Follow the posted limit; lower limits and other vehicle limits still apply.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM car speed table and controlled-access rules
What should a foreign driver check before using a Turkish toll motorway?
Check the highway authority’s HGS electronic toll requirements, including vehicle registration and payment arrangements. Foreign number plates do not exempt a vehicle from tolls or outstanding-toll obligations.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM car speed table and controlled-access rules
Where should I check toll arrangements before a motorway journey in Turkey?
Use the General Directorate of Highways’ official HGS information and the toll information for the road operator. Check the route and vehicle class before travelling; toll arrangements should not be inferred from a road’s speed limit.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM car speed table and controlled-access rules
3. Zone
A traffic zone is an area in which a traffic rule applies throughout all included roads or road sections. The rule normally begins at a zone-entry sign and remains applicable until the corresponding end-of-zone sign is passed.
Zones may regulate speed, parking, access, vehicle categories, emissions or other traffic behaviour. The signs used, the roads covered and the effect of intersections or local exceptions depend on local traffic law.
Wikimedia.org • ToprakM • CC BY-SA
How do people refer to traffic zones in Turkey?
Turkey’s maximum-speed zone is called an azami hız bölgesi. It has a corresponding azami hız bölgesi sonu sign marking its end. The entrance displays the maximum for the zone.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
Where does a zone rule apply in Turkey?
Apply the displayed maximum throughout the area covered by the speed-zone signing. Do not confuse the zone entrance with an ordinary circular speed sign applying to a road section.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
How do you know when a traffic zone ends in Turkey?
The corresponding maximum-speed-zone end sign identifies the boundary. Beyond it, follow the applicable road and vehicle limit and any new sign; the end panel does not authorise unlimited speed.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
4. Speed limit
A speed limit is the maximum legal speed permitted on a road, lane or within a designated area. It may be established by general traffic law or indicated by fixed, variable or temporary traffic signs.
A speed limit is a maximum, not a target speed. Drivers must travel more slowly whenever traffic, visibility, weather, road conditions, vulnerable road users or the condition of the vehicle make the maximum permitted speed unsafe.
Wikimedia.org • CeeGee • CC BY-SA
Which general speed limits should car drivers know in Turkey?
For an ordinary passenger car, the general maxima are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on interurban two-way roads and 110 km/h on divided roads. The statutory motorway figure is 120 km/h, with authorised 130 or 140 km/h limits on specified routes. Follow the actual motorway signs and any lower restrictions.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM current road/vehicle speed table
Start of a speed limit.
English • Traffic sign TT-29a • Maximum speed limit. Do not exceed 50 km/h.
Türkçe • TT-29a • Azami hız sınırlaması. 50 km/sa hızını aşmayın.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • TT-29a<
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Source revision 2021-08-15. Wikimedia original unmodified.
End of the speed limit.
English • Traffic sign TT-33a • End of speed limit. The previous 50 km/h limit ends here; observe other applicable limits.
Türkçe • TT-33a • Hız sınırlaması sonu. Önceki 50 km/sa sınırlaması burada sona erer; diğer geçerli hız sınırlarına uyun.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • TT-33a<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-08-15. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Why do Turkish motorway signs show different car maxima?
The statutory motorway table and authorised route-specific increases must be read together. Specified routes permit 130 or 140 km/h for ordinary cars, while lower restrictions can apply elsewhere or on individual sections. Do not assume one operator or the word motorway gives every road the same limit.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM current road/vehicle speed table
Does Turkey’s passenger-car motorway figure apply to a bus or goods vehicle?
No. Turkish limits differ by vehicle category and road type. A higher authorised car limit does not replace the separate ceiling for buses, goods vehicles or motorcycles. Identify the vehicle’s legal class and observe the applicable signs.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 50–52; KGM current road/vehicle speed table
5. Tunnel
A tunnel is a covered passage that carries a road through or beneath an obstacle such as a hill, mountain, building, waterway or another transport route. Road tunnels may contain one or more traffic lanes and can carry traffic in one or both directions.
Driving in a tunnel requires particular attention because visibility, available escape routes and space for avoiding hazards are limited. Drivers should follow the applicable lighting, speed, lane and following-distance rules and pay attention to emergency exits, traffic signals and variable-message signs.
Wikimedia.org • Zcebeci • CC BY-SA
What should I check before entering a tunnel in Turkey?
Read the tunnel sign together with any speed, clearance, vehicle-class and lane restrictions. The Turkish road-sign manual distinguishes these instructions; the tunnel symbol does not override a separate prohibition or traffic signal.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 52, 54 and 60–61; tunnel and access signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
Start of a tunnel.
English • Traffic sign B-49a • Tunnel. On entering, follow the requirement to switch on lights shown by the headlight plate.
Türkçe • B-49a • Tünel. Tünele giriyorsunuz; far paneliyle bildirilen far yakma talimatına uyun.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • B-49a<
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Source revision 2022-05-25. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Warning for a tunnel.
Does a tunnel sign in Turkey set a universal speed limit?
No single speed can be read from the tunnel pictogram. Apply the road’s relevant limit and any permanent or electronic speed restriction, and drive more slowly when visibility, queues or another hazard require it.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 52, 54 and 60–61; tunnel and access signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
Is every tunnel in Turkey open to pedestrians and cyclists?
No. Check the road category and access signs before entering. A motorway tunnel, a vehicle-restricted tunnel and a purpose-built walking or cycling underpass have different access arrangements. Emergency evacuation routes do not establish ordinary public access.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 52, 54 and 60–61; tunnel and access signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
6. Slope
A slope is a section of road that rises or descends noticeably. A steep slope can affect vehicle speed, braking distance, traction, visibility and the ability of heavy or low-powered vehicles to maintain a steady speed.
Warning signs may indicate a steep ascent or dangerous descent and may show the gradient as a percentage. Drivers should adjust their speed early, select a suitable gear and remain prepared for slow vehicles, bends and changing road conditions.
Wikimedia.org • Vikiçizer • CC BY-SA
What does a steep-slope warning mean in Turkey?
The Turkish highway authority’s sign chart distinguishes a steep descent from a steep ascent. Read any gradient and separate speed signs and allow for braking and traction.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 52 and 54; Regulation 106 meeting on steep roads
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
Warning for a steep ascent.
English • Traffic sign T-3b • Dangerous uphill gradient. A 10% ascent is ahead; select a suitable gear.
Türkçe • T-3b • Tehlikeli eğim; çıkış. İleride yüzde 10 eğimli tehlikeli çıkış vardır; uygun vitesi seçin.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • T-3b<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-11-13. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Warning for a steep descent.
English • Traffic sign T-3a • Dangerous downhill gradient. A 10% descent is ahead; select a suitable low gear, particularly in heavy vehicles.
Türkçe • T-3a • Tehlikeli eğim; iniş. İleride yüzde 10 eğimli tehlikeli iniş vardır; özellikle ağır araçlarla uygun düşük vitesi seçin.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • T-3a<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-11-13. Wikimedia original unmodified.
How should I approach a steep descent in Turkey?
Reduce speed before the descent and select a suitable gear to help control the vehicle. Keep enough following distance and avoid building up speed that requires continuous heavy braking. A warning gives no fixed safe descent speed: the gradient, surface, visibility, load and vehicle can require a speed well below the legal maximum.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 52 and 54; Regulation 106 meeting on steep roads
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
What should I check when meeting or overtaking on a slope in Turkey?
Do not overtake into an unseen section beyond a crest. Follow the applicable meeting rules and any separate priority controls at a narrow section; a warning alone is not permission to proceed first.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Articles 52 and 54; Regulation 106 meeting on steep roads
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
7. Stop sign
A stop sign requires drivers to bring their vehicle to a complete stop and give way before entering or crossing the road ahead. The stop must be made at the stop line or another legally prescribed position.
After stopping, the driver may continue only when this can be done safely and without interfering with traffic that has priority. The sign does not create priority for the driver who has stopped.
Wikimedia.org • Mariam elr • CC BY-SA
Must I stop completely at a stop sign in Turkey?
Yes. Come to a complete stop when the applicable stop sign controls your approach, even when you cannot see another road user. Slowing to a crawl is not a stop. The Turkish word DUR means stop.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Article 47; TT-2 DUR and stop-line placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
Stop and give way.
English • Traffic sign TT-2 • Stop. Stop completely before entering the junction and give way to vehicles with priority. May also indicate a compulsory stop at a railway crossing.
Türkçe • TT-2 • Dur. Kavşağa girmeden önce tamamen durun ve geçiş hakkı olan araçlara yol verin. Demiryolu geçidinde de durma zorunluluğunu gösterebilir.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83; original of Fry1989 eh? • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • TT-2<
SVG source: Gigillo83; original of Fry1989 eh? • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-08-10. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Where must I stop at a stop-controlled junction in Turkey?
Follow the stop line and the actual stopping position at the junction. Come to a complete stop before entering the conflicting traffic space and proceed only with a safe view and after giving way.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Article 47; TT-2 DUR and stop-line placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
Does stopping first give me priority at a stop sign in Turkey?
A complete stop does not, by itself, give you priority. Give way to the road users entitled to pass under the junction’s signs and rules, check pedestrians and cyclists, and proceed only when the gap is safe. Do not follow another stopped vehicle through without satisfying your own stopping and yielding duties.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Article 47; TT-2 DUR and stop-line placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
8. Pedestrian crossing
A pedestrian crossing is a designated place where pedestrians may cross a road. It is commonly indicated by road markings, traffic signs, signals or a combination of these measures.
Drivers must approach with appropriate caution and give way when required by local law. Pedestrians must also observe approaching traffic and follow any pedestrian signals or instructions from authorised traffic controllers.
Wikimedia.org • E_wndy • CC BY-SA
When must drivers give way at a pedestrian crossing in Turkey?
At junction entrances and exits and pedestrian or school crossings identified by signs or road markings, where there is no traffic officer or traffic light, drivers must slow down and stop to give first passage to pedestrians crossing or about to cross.
🔗 kocasinan.gov.tr • Turkey, Ministry of Interior, pedestrian-priority campaign, article 74
Crossing for pedestrians.
English • Traffic sign B-14a • Pedestrian crossing. Stop and give way to pedestrians crossing or about to cross.
Türkçe • B-14a • Yaya geçidi. Yaya geçidindesiniz; geçen veya geçmek üzere olan yayalara durarak yol verin.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Standart değişikliği • B-14a
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • güncel değişiklikler
Replacement SVG: Commons.wikimedia.org • Wikimedia Commons original • Government of Slovenia • Public domain • Original revision 2014-05-15. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Government of Slovenia • Public domain • Source revision 2014-05-15. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Warning for a pedestrian crossing.
English • Traffic sign T-11 • Pedestrian crossing. Slow down, be ready to give way to pedestrians and do not overtake the vehicle ahead.
Türkçe • T-11 • Yaya geçidi. İleride yaya geçidi vardır; yavaşlayın, yayalara yol vermeye hazırlanın ve öndeki taşıtı geçmeyin.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • T-11<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-12-07. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Are all pedestrian crossings controlled the same way in Turkey?
A pedestrian warning sign and a controlled crossing serve different purposes. Obey the signals or authorised controller when present.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkey, General Directorate of Highways, Road Traffic Regulation
May I enter a pedestrian crossing if the road beyond it is blocked in Turkey?
Wait before the crossing until there is room to clear it without obstructing pedestrians. Overtaking a vehicle ahead while approaching a pedestrian or school crossing is prohibited. Do not pass a stopped vehicle in a way that infringes pedestrian priority or endangers anyone.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkey, General Directorate of Highways, Road Traffic Regulation
Where does Turkish law normally require pedestrians to cross?
At pedestrian or school crossings, or junction entrances and exits, subject to article 68’s exception for places without a nearby crossing or junction.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkey, General Directorate of Highways, Road Traffic Regulation
When does Turkish law allow crossing away from designated locations?
Where no pedestrian crossing or junction is within roughly 100 metres: check safety, avoid obstructing vehicles, and cross by the shortest route in the shortest time.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkey, General Directorate of Highways, Road Traffic Regulation
May Turkish pedestrians obstruct or endanger traffic while using a crossing?
No. Article 68 prohibits that behaviour on pedestrian routes, crossings and carriageways used when necessary.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkey, General Directorate of Highways, Road Traffic Regulation
9. School area
A school area is a road or group of roads near a school where large numbers of children may walk, cycle, cross the road or enter and leave vehicles. It may be identified by warning signs, zone signs, road markings, traffic-calming measures or flashing lights.
Special speed limits, parking restrictions or access rules may apply permanently or only during school arrival and departure times. Drivers should reduce speed, watch carefully for children and be prepared to stop.
Wikimedia.org • Alexandru Panoiu • CC BY
What speed rules apply around schools in Turkey?
School-crossing warnings and locally signed lower speeds can protect school approaches. Read any accompanying speed and time restrictions.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM 2025 — pedestrian crossing signs, stop-to-yield duty and engineering criteria
Does a school warning sign in Turkey automatically set the speed limit?
A children or school warning alerts you to a potential hazard; the enforceable numerical speed limit depends on the applicable law, regulatory signs and any time or variable display. Slow further if children are near the road.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM 2025 — pedestrian crossing signs, stop-to-yield duty and engineering criteria
Warning for children.
English • Traffic sign T-12 • School crossing. Children frequently cross near a school or play area; slow down and be prepared to stop.
Türkçe • T-12 • Okul geçidi. İleride çocukların sık geçtiği okul veya oyun alanı geçidi vardır; yavaşlayın ve durmaya hazırlıklı olun.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • T-12<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-12-07. Wikimedia original unmodified.
How should you pass a school entrance in Turkey?
Watch for children stepping out from between parked vehicles, obey crossings and any school patrol, and follow stopping or parking restrictions. Do not obstruct visibility near a crossing or school entrance; approach at a speed that permits a safe stop.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM 2025 — pedestrian crossing signs, stop-to-yield duty and engineering criteria
10. Overtaking
Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.
Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.
Wikimedia.org • Aziz Akbiyik • CC BY-SA
On which side do drivers normally overtake in Turkey?
As traffic normally keeps right, drivers ordinarily overtake on the left. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
When should you avoid overtaking in Turkey?
Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Turkey?
Article 54 permits overtaking only when there is enough clear road to avoid endangering or obstructing road users, including opposing traffic. Leave safe lateral clearance for cyclists and pedestrians and allow for unexpected movement. Wait if there is insufficient room, and obey all separate overtaking and speed restrictions.
11. Crossing animals
An animals-crossing warning indicates a place or road section where wild animals, livestock or ridden animals may enter or cross the road. Animals may appear suddenly, move unpredictably or be difficult to see in darkness, vegetation or poor weather.
Drivers should reduce speed, scan both sides of the road and remain prepared to stop. The warning sign does not itself give animals priority or impose a numerical speed limit, but drivers must avoid frightening, endangering or colliding with them.
Wikimedia.org • Okansoyluturk • CC BY-SA
Which animals might drivers encounter on roads in Turkey?
An animal-warning sign identifies a risk of animals entering the road. Read the actual pictogram, supplementary information and local warnings. Slow when animals may be present, leave space and watch for more animals following. The sign does not establish that the hazard ends immediately beyond it.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — official 2025 sign-standard updates
Warning for cattle on the road.
English • Traffic sign T-14a • Domestic animals may cross. Animals may enter or cross the road.
Türkçe • T-14a • Ehli hayvanlar geçebilir. Evcil hayvanlar yola çıkabilir veya yolu geçebilir.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • T-14a<
SVG source: Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Original revision 2021-12-09. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Warning for crossing deer.
English • Traffic sign T-14b • Wild animals may cross. Wild animals may enter or cross the road.
Türkçe • T-14b • Vahşi hayvanlar geçebilir. Yabani hayvanlar yola çıkabilir veya yolu geçebilir.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org (Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0)
🔗 Kgm.gov.tr • KGM • Karayolu Trafik İşaretleme Standartları 1 • T-14b<
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Gigillo83 • CC BY-SA 4.0 • Source revision 2021-12-09. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Does an animal-crossing warning sign in Turkey set a new speed limit?
A warning of animals is not, by itself, a numerical speed-limit sign. Continue to obey the applicable speed limit, but slow down whenever animals could enter the road or visibility is poor. A separate regulatory speed sign must also be obeyed.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
What should you do if an animal enters the road in Turkey?
Ease off the accelerator, assess the traffic behind and brake smoothly if necessary. Avoid abrupt swerving into opposing traffic or off the road. Give farm animals and ridden animals room, avoid frightening them with unnecessary horn use, and be alert for more animals following.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
12. Wrong-way driving
Wrong-way driving occurs when a driver travels against the legally permitted direction of traffic. It may happen on a one-way road, divided road, motorway entrance or exit, or another road section reserved for traffic travelling in one direction.
Wrong-way driving creates an extreme risk of a head-on collision. Drivers must follow direction signs, no-entry signs, lane arrows and road markings. Anyone who accidentally enters a road in the wrong direction should slow down, warn other traffic, stop in the safest available place and contact the emergency services.
Wikimedia.org • Btian P. Dorsam • CC BY-SA
How can you avoid driving the wrong way in Turkey?
Traffic normally keeps right here. Keep to the correct side of the road and use no-entry and one-way signs to identify prohibited approaches; do not enter an exit ramp against its permitted direction.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
What signs can prevent wrong-way driving in Turkey?
Read no-entry signs, one-way signs, lane arrows and temporary directions together; a wide road is not automatically two-way. Before entering a motorway, expressway, one-way street or slip road, check the permitted direction rather than relying only on a navigation app.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
What should you do if you enter a road against traffic in Turkey?
Do not continue along the wrong-way lane or try to reverse or make a U-turn across a high-speed road. Reduce speed, warn other traffic if safe, get to a protected stopping place away from moving traffic when possible and contact the police or road operator for assistance.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — full national traffic-sign standards, meanings and placement
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • KGM — national sign chart, including shared and separate walking/cycling signs
13. Radar speed sign
A radar speed sign warns drivers that vehicle speeds may be monitored by a fixed camera, mobile radar, lidar or average-speed enforcement system. It reminds drivers to check and respect the applicable speed limit.
The sign does not normally establish the speed limit itself. Drivers must follow the general, posted or variable speed limit applying to the road and must not brake suddenly merely because speed enforcement is indicated.
Wikimedia.org • CeeGee • CC BY-SA
What should a driver understand from a radar or speed-camera warning in Turkey?
A notice warning of speed monitoring is separate from a regulatory speed-limit sign. Obey the applicable road, vehicle and posted maximum regardless of whether equipment is visible. A camera pictogram alone does not establish the equipment, its coverage or a legal duty to provide advance warning.
Which speed limit applies when a radar warning is displayed in Turkey?
Follow the speed-limit sign, applicable speed zone or statutory road and vehicle limit. A camera symbol or enforcement notice must not be mistaken for a sign raising or ending that limit.
Should you brake abruptly when you notice a radar sign in Turkey?
No. Adjust to the lawful and safe speed smoothly, leaving adequate space behind and ahead. Enforcement information does not authorise sudden unsafe manoeuvres or stopping to inspect the camera.
14. Traffic lights
Traffic lights use coloured lights, arrows or symbols to regulate when road users may proceed, must prepare to stop or must remain stopped. Separate signals may apply to particular directions, lanes, pedestrians, cyclists or public-transport vehicles.
A green light permits movement only when the route is clear and the movement is otherwise legal. Road users must still follow priority rules, turning restrictions, lane markings and instructions from authorised traffic controllers.
Wikimedia.org • Perencal • CC BY-SA
What must a driver do at red, amber and green signals in Turkey?
Red means stop. Amber after green means stop unless you are too close to stop safely. Red and amber together mean prepare to move. Green permits movement subject to the traffic rules for your manoeuvre.
May you turn at a red traffic light in Turkey?
Red prohibits movement in every direction unless another sign indicates otherwise. Where an illuminated arrow controls your turn, wait for that arrow to show green.
Can a green light remove the need to give way to pedestrians in Turkey?
No. Turning drivers must give way to pedestrians crossing lawfully. Drivers must also give way at junction entrances and exits to pedestrians crossing, or about to cross, in accordance with the rules.
15. No stopping
No stopping means that vehicles are not permitted to stop voluntarily at the indicated location, even briefly for picking up or dropping off passengers or loading or unloading goods. It is a stricter restriction than a no-parking rule.
A no-stopping restriction may be indicated by a traffic sign, road marking or local traffic regulation. Drivers should continue to a place where stopping is permitted unless they are forced to stop by traffic conditions, an emergency or another legal requirement.
Wikimedia.org • Vikiçizer • CC BY-SA
Can you stop on a pedestrian or school crossing in Türkiye?
No. Stopping on pedestrian, school and other crossings is prohibited.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkish Road Traffic Regulation, articles 104, 113–115 and 148
May you stop alongside another stopped or parked car in Türkiye?
No, on its traffic-facing side. The prohibition covers stopping beside a stopped or parked vehicle on that side.
🔗 kgm.gov.tr • Turkish Road Traffic Regulation, articles 104, 113–115 and 148
16. Reversing
Reversing means driving a vehicle backwards. It is commonly used when parking, leaving a confined space or repositioning a vehicle where forward movement is not practical.
Before reversing, the driver should check mirrors and blind spots, look carefully around the vehicle and make sure the area behind is clear. Reversing should be performed slowly and only for as long as necessary because visibility behind the vehicle is often limited.
Wikimedia.org • Kārlis Dambrāns • CC BY
Can you reverse on Turkish connecting roads?
No. Reversing on connecting roads is prohibited.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Regulation 137(B), read with Act manoeuvre and lane duties
Can you reverse on Turkish one-way roads?
Only for stopping or parking manoeuvres.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Regulation 137(B), read with Act manoeuvre and lane duties
When must Turkish lorry, bus or tractor-trailer drivers use a reversing guide?
When the driver cannot safely supervise the manoeuvre through observation.
🔗 mevzuat.gov.tr • Türkiye — Regulation 137(B), read with Act manoeuvre and lane duties
17. Road surface
A road surface warning indicates that the road ahead may be uneven, damaged or in poor condition and could affect the stability, steering or braking of a vehicle. The hazard may include bumps, depressions, potholes, broken pavement or other irregularities in the road surface.
Drivers should reduce speed where necessary, maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden steering or braking when passing over an irregular surface. The exact meaning and appearance of the warning sign vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Satirdan kahraman • CC0
Warning for a bad road surface.
What does a road surface warning mean?
A road surface warning indicates that the surface ahead may be uneven, damaged or otherwise capable of affecting the safe movement of vehicles.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
Warning for a bad road surface.
What should you do when you see a road surface warning?
Reduce speed where necessary, increase your awareness of the road ahead and be prepared for changes in the vehicle's stability or direction.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
Does a road surface warning impose a specific speed limit?
Not normally. A warning sign alerts drivers to a hazard rather than establishing a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be used where a particular maximum speed is required.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
18. City limit
A city limit is a boundary or roadside indication showing that a driver is entering or leaving a named city, town, village, locality or municipality. It is commonly marked by a place-name or boundary sign.
The meaning of these signs varies between countries. A city-limit or locality sign may identify an administrative boundary, a named settlement or a traffic-related boundary. It does not necessarily mark the beginning or end of a legally defined built-up area, and passing the sign does not always change the applicable speed limit or other traffic rules.
Wikimedia.org • CeeGee • CC BY-SA
What is a city limit?
A city limit identifies the boundary of a named city, town or municipality. A roadside place-name or boundary sign may identify that boundary, a locality or a legally defined built-up area; its exact meaning depends on the sign system.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, boundary signs
City limit.
End of city limit.
Does a city-limit sign always mark a built-up area?
No. A city-limit or locality sign may simply identify a place or administrative boundary. A legally defined built-up area can use a different sign or definition.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, boundary signs
What is the difference between a city limit and a built-up area?
A city limit identifies the boundary of a named place or administrative area. A built-up area is a traffic-law concept that may affect rules such as default speed limits. The two boundaries can coincide, but they do not have to.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Department for Transport, Know Your Traffic Signs, boundary signs
19. Licence plate
A licence plate, also called a registration plate or number plate, is a plate displaying a unique registration identifier assigned to a vehicle by the competent registration authority. It allows the vehicle to be identified for purposes such as registration, traffic enforcement, taxation, insurance and parking control.
The appearance, format, placement and number of plates required vary between countries and vehicle categories. Drivers must ensure that required licence plates are correctly fitted, clearly visible and legible and must follow the local rules when a plate is lost, stolen, damaged or replaced.
Wikimedia.org • E4024 • CC BY-SA
What is a licence plate?
A licence plate is a plate displaying the registration identifier assigned to a vehicle. It allows authorities and other authorised systems to identify the vehicle's registration.
Is a licence plate the same as a registration plate?
Yes. Licence plate, registration plate and number plate are different terms commonly used for the plate displaying a vehicle's official registration number.
What should you do if a licence plate is lost or stolen?
Follow the local reporting and replacement procedure. For example, UK guidance says stolen plates should be reported to the police and DVLA, and replacement plates are needed before driving. Check the registration authority’s procedure for a lost plate; it may differ from the theft process.
20. Dangers
A general danger warning sign warns road users of a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign. The particular danger may be explained by a supplementary panel, text, symbol or other indication placed with the warning sign.
Drivers should increase their attention, observe the road ahead and adapt their speed to the nature of the hazard and surrounding conditions. The exact appearance of the sign and the way the danger is identified vary between countries, so road users must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Vikiçizer • CC BY-SA
What does a general danger warning sign mean?
A general danger warning sign indicates that there is a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign in the local traffic-sign system.
Warning for a danger with no specific traffic sign.
What should you do when you see a general danger warning sign?
Increase your attention, observe the road and surroundings carefully and adapt your speed where necessary so that you can respond safely to the hazard.
Does the sign impose a specific speed limit?
Not normally. A warning sign alerts road users to danger rather than establishing a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be provided where a specific maximum speed is required.
21. Truck
A truck is a motor vehicle designed primarily for transporting goods. Trucks range from relatively small delivery vehicles to large heavy goods vehicles and articulated combinations used for long-distance freight transport.
Because trucks are generally larger, heavier and slower to manoeuvre than passenger cars, they require more space for turning and braking and often have larger blind spots. Specific speed, lane-use, overtaking and access rules may apply depending on the vehicle's weight and the country.
Wikimedia.org • CeeGee • CC BY-SA
Why should other road users take extra care around trucks?
Trucks may have larger blind spots, longer stopping distances and wider turning paths than smaller vehicles, so other road users should avoid remaining unnecessarily close beside or in front of them.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
22. Bus
A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport multiple passengers, usually along roads as part of public transport, school transport, private transport or another passenger service. Buses generally have more passenger capacity than cars and may be designed to carry seated passengers, standing passengers or both.
Special rules may apply to buses concerning the driving licence, passenger capacity, speed limits, seat belts, bus lanes, stops and passenger boarding. The legal classification of buses and coaches and the rules applying to them vary between countries, so drivers and passengers must follow the local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • CeeGee • CC BY-SA
What is a bus?
A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport a relatively large number of passengers. It may be used for public transport, school transport, private services or other passenger transport.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
Do buses always have priority when leaving a bus stop?
No. Some countries require other drivers to give way to buses leaving designated stops, particularly in urban areas, while others apply the normal merging rules.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
Do buses have special speed limits?
They can. Some countries impose lower maximum speeds on buses than on passenger cars, particularly on high-speed roads. Different limits may apply to buses and coaches.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 83–88; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 221–223; national guidance example
23. Police
Police are public authorities responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety and managing situations that may affect road traffic. In traffic, police officers may control vehicles, enforce traffic rules, investigate collisions, direct traffic and respond to emergencies.
Road users must follow lawful instructions given by police officers or other authorised traffic-control personnel. Police directions may temporarily override traffic lights, road signs or normal traffic arrangements, depending on local law.
Wikimedia.org • Dickelbers • CC BY-SA
What is the role of police in road traffic?
Police help enforce traffic law, investigate collisions and respond to risks on the road. For example, Greater Manchester Police describe targeted road enforcement, a round-the-clock roads-policing response and specialist serious-collision investigation. Exact responsibilities and powers vary by jurisdiction.
🔗 gmp.police.uk • Greater Manchester Police, Roads Policing Strategy2024–2026
Must you obey a police officer directing traffic?
Yes. Lawful directions given by an authorised police officer must be followed. In many countries, those directions take precedence over traffic lights, road signs and normal priority rules.
What should you do if police signal you to stop?
Slow down, follow the officer's directions and stop at a safe location as instructed. Do not make sudden movements or continue driving unless directed to do so.
24. Ambulance
An ambulance is a vehicle equipped and used to provide emergency medical assistance or transport patients to or between healthcare facilities. Ambulances may carry medical equipment and trained personnel who can provide treatment during transport.
During an emergency response, an ambulance may use warning lights and a siren and may receive special priority or exemptions from certain traffic rules. Other road users must follow the local rules for emergency vehicles, make sufficient space and avoid obstructing their passage.
Wikimedia.org • Dickelbers • CC BY-SA
What is an ambulance?
An ambulance is a specially equipped vehicle used to provide emergency medical assistance and transport sick or injured people.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example
What should you do when an ambulance approaches?
Make space safely for an ambulance on an emergency response, following the local rules and any lawful directions. Slow down or stop where necessary without sudden or dangerous movements. Do not assume that its emergency status allows you to pass a red light or disregard another traffic control.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example
Can an ambulance exceed the speed limit?
Many countries permit emergency vehicles to depart from certain normal speed rules during an urgent mission, subject to safety requirements and national legislation.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example
25. Pothole
A pothole is a hole or depression in the road surface caused by wear, weather, water, repeated traffic loads or deterioration of the pavement. Potholes can vary greatly in size and depth and may develop gradually or become worse after freezing, heavy rain or repeated vehicle traffic.
Potholes can affect steering, braking and vehicle stability and may damage tyres, wheels or suspension components. Drivers and riders should observe the road ahead, adapt their speed and avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres when encountering damaged road surfaces.
Wikimedia.org • State Farm • CC BY
What is a pothole?
A pothole is a hole or depression that develops in a road surface when the pavement becomes damaged or deteriorates.
What should you do when you see a pothole?
Reduce speed when necessary, maintain control of the vehicle and avoid abrupt steering or braking. Only move around the pothole when this can be done safely without endangering other road users.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example
Are potholes dangerous for cyclists?
Yes. Bicycle wheels can be strongly affected by deep holes or sharp edges, particularly when the cyclist has little time or space to avoid the hazard.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 226–237; national guidance example