Right-of-Way Rules – Permit Test Answers
Correct answer
Explanation
Right-of-way rules determine who must yield and who may proceed at intersections, crosswalks, and controlled roadways. On DMV exams, these questions test whether drivers understand when to stop, when to yield, and when they are legally allowed to go first. Right-of-way rules apply at four-way stops, uncontrolled intersections, left turns, pedestrian crossings, and when emergency vehicles or school crossing guards are present.
Last reviewed for accuracy in 2026.
Who has the right-of-way at a four-way stop?
The first vehicle to come to a complete stop has the right-of-way.
Rolling stops do not count as stopping on the DMV test.
What if two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop at the same time?
When vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first.
If two vehicles are directly across from each other and both are going straight, they may proceed at the same time.
Who has the right-of-way when turning left at an intersection?
A driver turning left must yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.
A green light does not give a left-turning driver the right-of-way unless a protected arrow is shown.
Who has the right-of-way when entering a public road from a driveway or private road?
Drivers entering a public road from a driveway, alley, or private road must yield to all traffic.
Who has the right-of-way at an intersection with no signs or signals?
At an uncontrolled intersection, the vehicle on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right.
Do pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks?
Yes. Pedestrians in marked crosswalks have the right-of-way.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers must remain stopped until the pedestrian clears the lane | California, New York | Vehicles may not proceed until the pedestrian is out of the driver’s lane |
| Drivers may proceed after yielding and clearing the lane | All other states | Proceed cautiously only after the pedestrian is no longer in your lane |
Do pedestrians have the right-of-way in unmarked crosswalks?
Yes. Pedestrians generally have the right-of-way in unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Strong pedestrian priority | California | Drivers must yield even without painted markings |
| Standard yielding rules apply | All other states | Drivers must yield when a pedestrian is present |
Who has the right-of-way when turning right on red?
Drivers turning right on red must yield to all cross traffic and pedestrians.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red commonly restricted | New York City | Many intersections prohibit right turn on red |
| Right turn on red allowed unless posted | All other states | Drivers must stop and yield before turning |
Who has the right-of-way if a vehicle is already in the intersection?
Vehicles already in the intersection have the right-of-way over vehicles approaching it.
Who has the right-of-way when an emergency vehicle approaches?
All drivers must yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles using lights and sirens.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicles must stop and yield at intersections | All states | Drivers may not continue through an intersection |
| Move-over rules apply for stopped emergency vehicles | All states | Drivers must change lanes or slow down when passing |
Who has the right-of-way in a funeral procession?
Vehicles in a funeral procession generally have the right-of-way once the lead vehicle enters the intersection.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Procession may continue through intersections | Some states | Once started, the procession continues |
| Standard traffic rules apply | All other states | Procession must obey signals unless directed |
Who has the right-of-way on a through road?
Traffic on a through road has the right-of-way over traffic facing stop signs.
What is the difference between a yield sign and a stop sign?
A stop sign requires a complete stop, while a yield sign requires slowing or stopping to yield to traffic.
Do bicyclists have the same right-of-way as motor vehicles?
Yes. Bicyclists generally have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Bicycles treated as vehicles | All other states | Same right-of-way rules apply |
| Additional cyclist protections | Some states | Drivers must allow extra space |
Who has the right-of-way when a school crossing guard is present?
Drivers must obey school crossing guards even if traffic signals indicate otherwise.
Quick exam rule to remember
Right-of-way is about yielding, not rushing.
What to study next
After right-of-way rules, DMV exams commonly test:
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Traffic signals and arrows
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Speed limits and special zones
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School bus rules
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Passing and lane usage