When an approach or area controller issues a 'DIRECT TO [waypoint]' clearance to an RNAV-equipped aircraft, what is the immediate navigation effect?

1. The aircraft must return to the departure airport VOR before proceeding
2. The aircraft must intercept the nearest published airway before proceeding to the waypoint
3. The aircraft turns and navigates directly from its current present position straight to the cleared waypoint, bypassing intermediate route fixes
4. The aircraft must maintain its current heading for 10 minutes before turning