Road signs, signals and road markings (signalisation routière)
The Comorian system follows the European (Vienna Convention) model inherited from French practice, so signs are grouped by shape and colour and read the same way as in France. The exam tests whether you can decode a sign instantly, obey an officer ahead of a light, and read markings that permit or forbid a manoeuvre.
Sign families
- Triangular signs with a red border warn of a hazard ahead: bend, junction, children, livestock, slippery road.
- Round signs with a red border prohibit - speed limit, no overtaking, no entry, no parking. Round blue signs oblige: turn right, keep right, minimum speed.
- Square or rectangular blue, green and white signs inform: directions, parking, hospital, fuel.
- The yellow diamond marks a priority road; the same diamond with a black diagonal bar ends that priority.
Lights and officer signals
Green means go if the way is clear. Amber means stop unless you are so close that stopping would be dangerous. Red means stop at the line; flashing amber means proceed with caution. An officer's signals override lights and signs - an arm raised vertically means stop for everyone.
Markings
A continuous white line may not be crossed or straddled. A broken line may be crossed to overtake or turn when it is safe. Zebra stripes are pedestrian crossings; a thick transverse line goes with the octagonal STOP sign; a broken line across your lane at a junction means give way.
Worked example
You pass the yellow diamond, then the same diamond with a black bar, then reach an unmarked crossroads. The bar means you have left the priority road, so the default rule applies: give way to traffic approaching from your right.
Traps that cost marks
Confusing no entry (red disc, white bar) with no vehicles; treating amber as an invitation to accelerate; crossing a continuous line to overtake a slow lorry; ignoring temporary roadworks signs that contradict the permanent ones.