Right of way
Roundabout Rules in Singapore: Who Gives Way?
A guide to the right-side priority rule, lane choice, signalling, and the common BTT trap around traffic already inside the roundabout.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026. Handbook baseline: 52-53.
to right
Remember
Slow down before entering a roundabout.
Remember
Give way to traffic from your right.
Remember
Choose the correct lane before entry and avoid sudden lane changes inside.
Remember
Signal clearly before leaving the roundabout.
Priority comes before lane choice
At the entry, your first job is to decide whether it is safe to enter. Traffic approaching from your right or already circulating has priority. Lane choice and signalling matter, but they do not override the need to give way.
Slow down before the entry.
Look right and assess circulating traffic.
Enter only when the gap is safe.
Plan the exit before you enter
Many learner mistakes happen because the driver enters first and decides later. Choose the correct lane before entry, keep a predictable path while circulating, and avoid last-second lane changes inside the roundabout.
Use the lane that matches your intended exit where lane guidance is provided.
Stay in lane and avoid cutting across other vehicles.
If you miss an exit, continue safely instead of forcing a sudden move.
Signal for communication, not entitlement
Signals tell other road users what you intend to do. They do not give you automatic priority. At a roundabout, signal clearly when leaving and still check that the movement is safe.
Signal in good time before exiting.
Check mirrors and blind spots where relevant.
Do not assume others have seen or understood your signal.
Watch vulnerable road users near exits
Roundabout exits can bring vehicles close to pedestrian crossings, cyclists, and slower road users. A correct priority answer at entry does not remove the need to observe while exiting.
Check the exit path before accelerating.
Give way to pedestrians where crossing rules require it.
Keep speed low enough to respond to unexpected movement.
Scenario check
Apply the rule before you move on.
These short checks are intentionally close to how test traps feel: one detail changes the answer.
Question
You reach a roundabout and a vehicle is coming from your right.
Answer
Slow down and give way. Do not enter just because your path looks short.
Question
You missed your intended exit.
Answer
Continue safely around again instead of cutting across lanes suddenly.
Question
You signal left to exit but a pedestrian is crossing near the exit.
Answer
Your signal does not remove the need to give way where required. Slow and wait.
Next step
Turn this guide into active recall.
Read the related module for full explanation, then use flashcards to check whether the distinction is actually memorised.
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