Traffic Signals, Lights, and Arrows
Correct answer
Explanation
Traffic signals control when drivers must stop, prepare to stop, or proceed through intersections and lanes. On DMV exams, signal questions test whether drivers correctly respond to red, yellow, and green lights; arrows; flashing signals; lane-control signals; and what to do when signals malfunction or are overridden by officers or special warnings.
Last reviewed for accuracy in 2026.
What does a steady red traffic light mean?
A steady red light means stop and remain stopped until the light turns green.
Can you turn right on a red light?
Drivers may turn right on red after coming to a complete stop unless a sign prohibits it, and must yield to all 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 |
What does a steady yellow traffic light mean?
A steady yellow light warns that the signal is about to turn red and drivers must prepare to stop.
Yellow does not mean speed up on the DMV test.
What does a steady green traffic light mean?
A steady green light allows drivers to proceed if the intersection is clear and they yield where required.
A green light does not override right-of-way rules.
What does a steady red arrow mean?
A steady red arrow means no turn is allowed in the direction of the arrow.
What does a steady green arrow mean?
A steady green arrow allows drivers to proceed in the direction of the arrow without yielding to oncoming traffic.
What does a steady yellow arrow mean?
A steady yellow arrow warns that the protected turn is ending and drivers must prepare to stop.
What does a flashing red traffic light mean?
A flashing red light means stop, then proceed when safe.
It is treated the same as a stop sign on the DMV test.
What does a flashing yellow traffic light mean?
A flashing yellow light means proceed with caution.
Which signal do you follow: an arrow or a circular light?
Signal arrows control movement in their specific direction even if the circular signal shows a different color.
What do lane-control signals mean?
Lane-control signals indicate which lanes may be used, must be vacated, or are closed.
| Signal | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green arrow | Lane is open |
| Yellow arrow | Lane is ending, prepare to leave |
| Red X | Lane is closed |
What should you do if traffic signals are flashing due to a malfunction?
Drivers must treat the intersection according to the flashing signal displayed.
| Signal condition | States | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Flashing red in all directions | All states | Treat as a four-way stop |
| Flashing yellow on main road | All other states | Proceed with caution; side roads stop |
What should you do if a traffic signal is completely dark?
A dark traffic signal should be treated as a stop sign unless directed otherwise.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Dark signal treated as four-way stop | All states | Drivers must stop and yield appropriately |
Who do you obey if a police officer or flagger is directing traffic?
Directions from a police officer or flagger override traffic signals.
Do pedestrian signals affect drivers?
Drivers must obey pedestrian signals when pedestrians are lawfully crossing.
| Rule variation | States | What this means |
|---|---|---|
| Strong pedestrian priority | California, New York | Drivers must yield even on green |
| Standard yielding rules apply | All other states | Yield when pedestrians are in the crosswalk |
What happens if railroad or emergency signals are active near an intersection?
Special signals such as railroad crossings override standard traffic signals.
Quick exam rule to remember
Signal arrows override circular lights, and flashing signals replace normal signal rules.
What to study next
After traffic signals and arrows, DMV exams commonly test:
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Speed limits and special zones
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School bus signals and rules
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Passing and lane usage
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Pedestrian and bicycle rules