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Page 67: Two-way left turn lanes · U-turns

Our summary · page 67

  • A two-way left turn lane is shared by vehicles turning left from both directions. You may cross the solid yellow line to enter it, but only close to your turn.
  • No U-turns where a sign prohibits them, or at traffic lights unless a traffic control device permits one. In urban areas, none between intersections.
  • Outside urban areas, no U-turns on a curve, or on the approach to or near the crest (top) of a hill where a driver within 150 metres either way can’t see you.

Two-way left turn lanes

A two-way left turn lane allows vehicles from each direction to turn left using the same lane. Vehicles from both directions share this centre lane to turn left. It is permissible to cross the solid yellow line to enter the shared turn lane. Only enter the turning lane close to where you will be turning. Watch for oncoming vehicles in your lane.

Two-way left turn lane

Reminders for safe turning

  • Check for traffic, do a shoulder check, signal, and when safe, move into the proper lane.
  • Signal with enough time to provide a reasonable warning to other drivers and pedestrians of your intention.
  • Check oncoming and cross traffic as well as the crosswalk to your left for pedestrians. Watch for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

U-turns

A U-turn is done by turning your vehicle around at an intersection to go in the opposite direction by using oncoming lanes.

This sign means U-turns are not allowed.

Do not do a U-turn unless it can be done safely. U-turns are not permitted:

  • at an intersection controlled by a traffic control signal (traffic lights) unless permitted by a traffic control device
  • where a sign prohibits U-turns.

In urban areas U-turns are not permitted:

  • on a roadway between intersections
  • at an alley intersection
  • at an intersection where one or more of the roadways is an access to a public or private parking lot which the public can access.

Outside urban areas (rural) U-turns are not permitted:

  • on a curve
  • on an approach to or near the crest of a hill where the driver of another vehicle cannot see you that is within 150 metres approaching from either direction.

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Reproduced from the Driver's Guide: cars and light trucks (Spring 2026), Government of Alberta.

Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Alberta. Class 7 Practice is an independent study tool, not affiliated with the Government of Alberta.

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